Every so often, we encounter websites with nothing more than a bunch of text interspersed between an expanse of white background. This layout comes out as a simple yet effective design for a variety of interests. The white color found on these websites is what we call white space.
What is white space, and why do some pages resort to adding white spaces throughout the interface of the site?
White Space Defined
White space is the portion of the website that is left blank or empty. In terms of web design and layout, white space is the part that is often left unmarked. That means that it does not contain any graphic, text, table, or other elements. Moreover, this space is left without any elements so that things could be smoothed out, allowing the page to be transformed into something that is polished.
It is worth noting, though, that just because the page is brimming with white space, it already means the actual page must be white. It does not work that way. Instead, the space may be any color there is as long as it is devoid of any elements such as text or image.
Also known as negative space or blank space, the white space gives a subtle yet visually striking reminder that a more straightforward design is more striking than those with over-furnished embellishments. It exudes sophistication due to its simple yet efficient design that guides the attention of the users to specific elements such as text.
Google is an ideal example of a website whose interface efficiently uses white space. Because of the amount of white space present on the page, people are forced to focus their attention on the most important portion of the page. And that is the search button. Even common social media platforms including Instagram and Facebook efficiently uses blank space so that users can direct their attention to the information present right in front of their eyes.
White space is one of most overlooked elements that would complete a website. Not because it takes up a lot of area on the page, but it could also make the interface bland and unattractive. So what is the purpose of white space on the website?
Roles of White Space on the Website
- White space helps increase the readability or the clarity of your text. It allows users to see what they are going to see legibly so that they will be given a reason not to stop reading. By employing this on your websites, you can expect your users to focus on the text and understand the content well without being distracted by unnecessary designs fluttering around the page.
- The blank space of your website separates the essential content from those with secondary importance. By separating the different elements from each other, the site becomes more visually appealing. Moreover, by using white space to divide large chunks of text from each other, users will be given an appropriate space to rest their eyes for a moment before proceeding to the next paragraph.
- White space also helps maintain a balance throughout the page. It is worth noting that too much white space could make users think that the website lacks content and an efficient layout. On the other hand, too little white space could lead to disorganization and confusion. These characteristics do not suit well to your website. By placing just the right amount of white space on the site, users will get a better grasp of what you want to convey to them, thus improving their experience.
- White space also delivers a better interaction between the user and the interface. Since some site visitors are in a hurry when browsing through the pages, white space can prevent the appearance of distractions that could slow the visitor down, drawing the attention of the user to a certain area of the website. By doing so, the rate of interaction between the user and the interface is increased.
Final thoughts
White space is an essential element that keeps the other elements in place. Web designers should consider placing some white space throughout the website to efficiently allow more traffic to your website.