Symmetry is the foundation for harmony. Symmetry is the foundation of harmony. The theory states that the mind creates order from what it encounters.

Symmetry can be boring. We’ll also talk about asymmetry. 

What can designers do about symmetry? This guide will address this aspect of design. This guide will discuss basic concepts, symmetry techniques, and best practices. It also includes a few examples from websites that use symmetry.

Different types Symmetry

There are three types of symmetry: bilateral, rotational, and translational. 

Reflection Symmetry

Bilateral Symmetry is also known as reflection symmetry. This is when an object is reflected across a plane to create another instance.

Horizontal reflection is the most common type we can imagine and what we see most often in nature. The reflection’s central axis is vertical.

Reflection Symmetry can be applied in any direction including vertically, diagonally, and everything in between.

Rotational Symmetry

Radial Symmetry is also called rotational symmetry. It refers to the rotation of an object in one direction around a point.

Nature is full rotational symmetry. It can be seen in the petals of flowers and on the jellyfish’s topsides. 

Rotational Symmetry can transmit action even to static media.

Translational Symmetry

Translational symmetry is when an object moves to another place while maintaining its exact or general orientation. They don’t have to be equal.

It can create patterns like tiled backgrounds for websites or repeating design elements. 

Asymmetry

Asymmetry is a lack of symmetry. An object that does not have symmetry. An asymmetrical design can help to create points of interest and organize visual hierarchy.

It can cause disorder that can be used to draw attention toward specific points in a layout via distinction. Asymmetry is a way to create visual complexity and add variations to otherwise well-ordered designs.

Symmetry vs. Asymmetry

Asymmetrical objects visually weigh more than symmetrical items. Symmetry can be used to draw attention to monotony and break it up the monotony.

Symmetry/Asymmetry Design Tips & Best Practices

There are many best practices for working with symmetry and asymmetry in design.

Use Symmetry Strategically

The strategic use of symmetry or its absence is a powerful design tool. Asymmetry may be used to reinforce risk-loving designs.

Asymmetry can add humor to an otherwise dull design.

Layout structures benefit from Translational Symmetry

By keeping content pieces approximately the same size, it is possible to maintain symmetry. This can be done on a website or printed piece.

Rotational Symmetry can be used to communicate movement and action.

Rotational Symmetry is used to simulate motion in flat static media. This can indicate forward or progress.

Use asymmetry to draw attention.

Although symmetry can make designs look more appealing, it can also serve another purpose: to grab attention, establish visual hierarchy, and direct the eye towards a particular area. 

Follow your gut instinct

Symmetry is natural. We already know the Gestalt principles. This is because our brains are wired to achieve harmony and balance.

There is harmony everywhere. 

An example of harmony in web design

These are just 15 examples of symmetry in design. IWC

On the IWC website, we see both translational and reflection.

Reflection symmetry refers to the placement of many elements or blocks of content in a central position. Both sides are equal. They are equally proportional on both sides.

Regenerator is a great example of reflective symmetry within web design.

Horizontal reflection can be used for everything from the logo to the central piece (an image of a robot) Beanstalk

This design has a horizontally symmetrical appearance. It is centered for most of the parts.

Although the imagery might not be exact, it does show the overall design balance. Pointless Corp

Pointless Corp’s design allows for creativity, humor, and visual appeal. It also has a bit of symmetry to make it more cohesive. 

You’ll notice that certain shapes and directional flows are repeated which is an indication of translational symmetry. The Idealists

This web design demonstrates both reflection and translational symmetry. The main elements are well-placed and centered on a vertical plane. Overflowing elements such as imagery and logos add interest.

These elements, as well as a few others, add visual interest and variety to the design. These two elements, along with a few others throughout the site, add visual interest to the design.

The main content is well-placed and would remain on the same side if folded in half. There are however many asymmetrical elements. These elements can be used to distinguish visual hierarchy in certain areas.

It will surprise you how many asymmetrical items are used to break down the overall symmetry.

Summary

Harmony (or lack thereof) in design projects can be a powerful instrument. This communicates professionalism, integrity, and solidarity.

Asymmetry can be a strong point of interest, uniqueness, and character.