Josef Müller Blockmann's Grid Systems in Graphic Design

Prior to reading, the grid was a tool to help shape and organise editorial content on a page. Muller-Brockmanns explanation of grid systems in graphic design demonstrate how important grids are in graphic design and how creative the designer can use one. The grid can be used extensively throughout a design project both in 2D and 3D, offering various and engaging layout to present information for the viewer.

What is encouraging is that Brockmann creates these layouts using very simple grid formats such as 2x4 and 4x8. The difficulty is using the most appropriate grid layout for the content and page size. An effective grid system is aesthetically pleasing because it forms a good relationship between the type and image. The balance of both elements help guide the reader along the page and presents the content in the most efficient way possible for clear communication.

His various illustrations of the grid has also inspired personal sketches of composition ideas for briefs. Doing every design process on the computer can be restricting. Pen and paper is quicker and easier to translate thoughts into reality.

Brockmanns thorough understanding of the grid system means that there is a lot more to consider than just the number of rows and columns. The grid must be proportional to the page and content, and must be placed in such a way that allows for a easy and engaging reading experience. This is shown through his margin ratio's that a grid should have e.g. 1:1.5:2:3. Brockmann states that margins of the same width will never result in an interesting page design as they always create a impression of indecision and dullness. Not only that but the lines of text that have proportional leading to the grid ensures high readability and legibility which results in an aesthetically pleasing reading experience.

Brockmann also explains how photography is rarely considered to the grid its placed on. "The photographer rarely knows that his photograph is going to be incorporated into a design, or if he does, how it will be done." Therefore only when the designer and photographer work together in close collaboration will be possible for him to conceive his photograph in terms of the grid the designer developed. When this is achieved, harmony between type and image is created and ensure a complete use of the grid.

The most surprising application of the grid is through 3D space e.g. planning an exhibition space. "Systematic organisation of the plan and elevations enable the best possible use to be made of the exhibition area for the presentation of the products or the theme." The use of a grid in 3D space ensure that the design focuses the attention of the viewer more sharply on the themes presented. The viewer is not wearied unnecessarily by formal accessories of a purely decorative nature. The communication of the visual message then is paramount.

Through Brockmanns explanations of the grid, it highlights how much the designer is required to understand in order to create effective pieces of design. The modern day three-dimensional designer today becomes a designer, architect, typographer, graphic designer, photographer, film expert, colour psychologist and general adviser. By representing these qualities, the designer can design every element of the brief's solution. Some of these aspects are already being done on the course.

As a whole, Josef Müller Blockmann's Grid Systems in Graphic Design dismantles the common misconception that the grid is a restrictive tool for creativity. I aim to take inspiration from Brockmann to help better design my solutions.