---
title: "The Paradox of White Space: Some Research and Examples of White Space in Web Design"
date: 2007-07-09
description: "$( document ).ready(function() { // Handler for .ready() called. $("
canonical_url: https://idratherbewriting.com/2007/07/09/white-space-in-web-design/
---
# The Paradox of White Space: Some Research and Examples of White Space in Web Design
### Paradox of White Space

White space also has an interesting paradox surrounding it: The absence of graphics and text plays a significant role in increasing comprehension of the text and of focusing attention on graphics. The absence of content is what draws the eye towards content. The negative, blank space (which possesses nothing) creates a sense of sophistication and elegance. The sense of simplicity and absence of graphics and text is what contributes toward a richer, deeper and more complex artistic expression.

### Authors on White Space

Below are a few excerpts from authors writing about white space.

This author notes that white space contributes to a sense of refinement:

> In western culture we associate uncluttered spaces with good taste, refinement and affluence. It is also more restful to the eye to read or view items that have a generous amount of white space surrounding them. That is why museums always use broad white walls as a backdrop for paintings on display.

> On the Web, white space is essential when the viewer is required to read large amounts of content. Generous margins and clear simple layouts make it easier for the eye to work. Cluttered layouts tire the eye quickly and hinder clarity. Also, just as in advertising, uncluttered layouts convey a sense of good taste and refinement. (Source: [Newark1](http://www.newark1.com/order/000080.html))

Newark1's site itself is a good example of white space. It seems to have a nice sense of balance as well.

[![Newark](https://s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com/idbwmedia.com/images/newark1.gif)](http://www.newark1.com/order/000080.html)

This author also explains that generous white space creates a sense of luxury and elegance:

> Designers use whitespace to create a feeling of sophistication and elegance for upscale brands. Coupled with a sensitive use of typography and photography, generous whitespace is seen all over luxury markets. Cosmetics, for example, use extensive whitespace in their marketing material to tell the reader that they are sophisticated, high quality, and generally expensive. (Source: [A List Apart](http://alistapart.com/articles/whitespace))