Visual HIERARCHIES
The Gestalt principles of psychology were created by psychologists Max Wertheimer, Kurt Koffka, and Wolfgang Kohler. These laws of human perception can be implemented to back up design directions that influence a positive user experience. Let's explore three.
Visual hierarchies function as information architecture of all design components, from graphic design elements to content, and must be purposefully integrated for a seamless experience.
The Gestalt Law of Proximity is a principle of human perception that dictates items, or in this case design elements, that are placed closely together are related to one another. This also prompts the idea that elements that are grouped together but separated from other elements further highlight their relation.
The Law of Similarity reflects the idea that humans tend to group similar things, elements, or features together no matter their proximity to one another. If elements attain a likeness in visual appearance, the clear assumption can be made that they should be grouped collectively.
The Law of Continuation delves into the idea that humans naturally follow a continuous and uninterrupted movement. Whether a straight line or the curvature of another, our eye perceives information much more efficiently when there is a clear, cohesive line to follow.