Design
Principles
From 2D into 3D
EDITED BY
DR. HANY M. EL-SAID
Introduction
Design principles such as balance, contrast, emphasis, and unity are foundational in
both 2D and 3D design. While 2D design focuses on flat compositions, 3D design
introduces depth, volume, and spatial relationships. According to Lauer and Pentak
(2012), understanding how these principles translate from 2D to 3D is essential for
creating cohesive and functional designs across different mediums.
Principle #1: Balance
2D Balance
 In 2D design, balance refers to the distribution of visual weight
across a composition. It can be symmetrical (mirror-like),
asymmetrical (uneven but balanced), or radial (elements radiate
from a central point). For example, a symmetrical 2D poster
design might feature a central image with equal text on both
sides.
3D Balance
 In 3D design, balance extends into physical space. A symmetrical
3D sculpture, such as a classical statue, mirrors itself along a
central axis. Asymmetrical balance in 3D might involve a modern
sculpture where different shapes and weights are arranged to
create equilibrium without mirroring. **Ching (2007)** notes that
3D balance must account for physical weight and spatial
distribution, making it more complex than 2D balance.
Principle #2: Contrast
2D Contrast
Contrast in 2D design is achieved through differences in
color, shape, size, or texture. For example, a black-and-white
poster uses high contrast to draw attention to key elements.
3D Contrast
In 3D design, contrast can be achieved through material
differences, light and shadow, or spatial relationships. For
instance, a 3D model of a building might use glass
(transparent) and concrete (opaque) to create visual and
tactile contrast. **Zakia (2013)** emphasizes that contrast in
3D design enhances depth perception and guides the
viewer’s focus.
Principle #3: Emphasis
2D Emphasis
Emphasis in 2D design is created by making one element
stand out, often through size, color, or placement. For
example, a bold headline in a magazine layout draws the
reader’s eye.
3D Emphasis
In 3D design, emphasis is achieved through spatial hierarchy,
lighting, or material choice. A 3D product design, such as a
chair, might use a unique material or color for the seat to
make it the focal point. Lupton and Phillips (2015) argue that
3D emphasis must consider multiple viewing angles, making
it more dynamic than in 2D.
Principle #4: Unity
2D Unity
Unity in 2D design is achieved when all elements work
together cohesively. For example, a brand logo uses
consistent colors, fonts, and shapes to create a unified
identity.
3D Unity
In 3D design, unity involves the harmonious arrangement of
forms, materials, and spaces. A 3D architectural design, such
as a modern house, might use repeating geometric shapes
and consistent materials to create a unified aesthetic.
Gestalt Theory (Wertheimer, 1923) suggests that unity in 3D
design is perceived when elements are visually connected,
creating a sense of wholeness.
Principle #5: Movement
2D Movement
Movement in 2D design is implied through lines, shapes,
and directional cues. For example, a 2D painting might
use diagonal lines to suggest motion.
3D Movement
In 3D design, movement can be actual (physical motion)
or implied (through form and arrangement). A 3D kinetic
sculpture, such as Alexander Calder’s mobiles, uses actual
movement, while a static sculpture might use curved lines
to imply motion. Lidwell, Holden, and Butler (2010) explain
that 3D movement engages viewers by creating dynamic
interactions between the object and its environment.
Principle #6: Scale and
Proportion
2D Scale and Proportion
In 2D design, scale refers to the size of elements relative to
the composition, while proportion refers to the relationship
between elements. For example, a 2D infographic might use
larger icons to represent more significant data points.
3D Scale and Proportion
In 3D design, scale and proportion must account for real-
world dimensions. A 3D model of a human figure, for
instance, must maintain accurate proportions to appear
realistic. Vitruvius (1st Century BCE) famously emphasized the
importance of proportion in creating aesthetically pleasing
and functional designs, a principle that applies equally to 3D
design.
Principle #7: Repetition and
Rhythm
2D Repetition and Rhythm
Repetition in 2D design creates patterns and rhythm,
such as a wallpaper design with repeating floral motifs.
3D Repetition and Rhythm
In 3D design, repetition can create rhythm through the
arrangement of forms or materials. For example, a 3D
architectural facade might use repeating windows or
columns to create a rhythmic pattern. Knight (2011)
notes that repetition in 3D design can enhance spatial
harmony and guide the viewer’s experience.
Conclusion
The principles of design—balance, contrast, emphasis, unity, movement, scale, and repetition—are universal, but their
application evolves when moving from 2D to 3D. While 2D design focuses on flat compositions, 3D design introduces
depth, volume, and spatial relationships, requiring designers to consider additional factors such as physical weight,
materiality, and multiple viewing angles. As Meggs (2011) states, mastering these principles in both 2D and 3D is
essential for creating effective and engaging designs.
References
- Arnheim, R. (2004). *Art and Visual Perception: A Psychology of the Creative Eye*. University of California Press.
- Ching, F. D. K. (2007). *Architecture: Form, Space, and Order*. John Wiley & Sons.
- Knight, C. (2011). *The Making of Visual Art: A Guide to the Principles of Design*. Routledge.
- Lauer, D. A., & Pentak, S. (2012). *Design Basics*. Cengage Learning.
- Lidwell, W., Holden, K., & Butler, J. (2010). *Universal Principles of Design*. Rockport Publishers.
- Lupton, E., & Phillips, J. C. (2015). *Graphic Design: The New Basics*. Princeton Architectural Press.
- Meggs, P. B. (2011). *Meggs’ History of Graphic Design*. John Wiley & Sons.
- Zakia, R. D. (2013). *Perception and Imaging: Photography as a Way of Seeing*. Focal Press.
Thank you
"In 3D design, space is not just an
absence of mass; it is a dynamic
element that shapes how we
perceive and interact with the
world.“
– Frank Lloyd Wright (paraphrased)

Converting design principles from 2D into 3D.ppsx

  • 1.
    Design Principles From 2D into3D EDITED BY DR. HANY M. EL-SAID
  • 2.
    Introduction Design principles suchas balance, contrast, emphasis, and unity are foundational in both 2D and 3D design. While 2D design focuses on flat compositions, 3D design introduces depth, volume, and spatial relationships. According to Lauer and Pentak (2012), understanding how these principles translate from 2D to 3D is essential for creating cohesive and functional designs across different mediums.
  • 3.
    Principle #1: Balance 2DBalance  In 2D design, balance refers to the distribution of visual weight across a composition. It can be symmetrical (mirror-like), asymmetrical (uneven but balanced), or radial (elements radiate from a central point). For example, a symmetrical 2D poster design might feature a central image with equal text on both sides. 3D Balance  In 3D design, balance extends into physical space. A symmetrical 3D sculpture, such as a classical statue, mirrors itself along a central axis. Asymmetrical balance in 3D might involve a modern sculpture where different shapes and weights are arranged to create equilibrium without mirroring. **Ching (2007)** notes that 3D balance must account for physical weight and spatial distribution, making it more complex than 2D balance.
  • 4.
    Principle #2: Contrast 2DContrast Contrast in 2D design is achieved through differences in color, shape, size, or texture. For example, a black-and-white poster uses high contrast to draw attention to key elements. 3D Contrast In 3D design, contrast can be achieved through material differences, light and shadow, or spatial relationships. For instance, a 3D model of a building might use glass (transparent) and concrete (opaque) to create visual and tactile contrast. **Zakia (2013)** emphasizes that contrast in 3D design enhances depth perception and guides the viewer’s focus.
  • 5.
    Principle #3: Emphasis 2DEmphasis Emphasis in 2D design is created by making one element stand out, often through size, color, or placement. For example, a bold headline in a magazine layout draws the reader’s eye. 3D Emphasis In 3D design, emphasis is achieved through spatial hierarchy, lighting, or material choice. A 3D product design, such as a chair, might use a unique material or color for the seat to make it the focal point. Lupton and Phillips (2015) argue that 3D emphasis must consider multiple viewing angles, making it more dynamic than in 2D.
  • 6.
    Principle #4: Unity 2DUnity Unity in 2D design is achieved when all elements work together cohesively. For example, a brand logo uses consistent colors, fonts, and shapes to create a unified identity. 3D Unity In 3D design, unity involves the harmonious arrangement of forms, materials, and spaces. A 3D architectural design, such as a modern house, might use repeating geometric shapes and consistent materials to create a unified aesthetic. Gestalt Theory (Wertheimer, 1923) suggests that unity in 3D design is perceived when elements are visually connected, creating a sense of wholeness.
  • 7.
    Principle #5: Movement 2DMovement Movement in 2D design is implied through lines, shapes, and directional cues. For example, a 2D painting might use diagonal lines to suggest motion. 3D Movement In 3D design, movement can be actual (physical motion) or implied (through form and arrangement). A 3D kinetic sculpture, such as Alexander Calder’s mobiles, uses actual movement, while a static sculpture might use curved lines to imply motion. Lidwell, Holden, and Butler (2010) explain that 3D movement engages viewers by creating dynamic interactions between the object and its environment.
  • 8.
    Principle #6: Scaleand Proportion 2D Scale and Proportion In 2D design, scale refers to the size of elements relative to the composition, while proportion refers to the relationship between elements. For example, a 2D infographic might use larger icons to represent more significant data points. 3D Scale and Proportion In 3D design, scale and proportion must account for real- world dimensions. A 3D model of a human figure, for instance, must maintain accurate proportions to appear realistic. Vitruvius (1st Century BCE) famously emphasized the importance of proportion in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional designs, a principle that applies equally to 3D design.
  • 9.
    Principle #7: Repetitionand Rhythm 2D Repetition and Rhythm Repetition in 2D design creates patterns and rhythm, such as a wallpaper design with repeating floral motifs. 3D Repetition and Rhythm In 3D design, repetition can create rhythm through the arrangement of forms or materials. For example, a 3D architectural facade might use repeating windows or columns to create a rhythmic pattern. Knight (2011) notes that repetition in 3D design can enhance spatial harmony and guide the viewer’s experience.
  • 10.
    Conclusion The principles ofdesign—balance, contrast, emphasis, unity, movement, scale, and repetition—are universal, but their application evolves when moving from 2D to 3D. While 2D design focuses on flat compositions, 3D design introduces depth, volume, and spatial relationships, requiring designers to consider additional factors such as physical weight, materiality, and multiple viewing angles. As Meggs (2011) states, mastering these principles in both 2D and 3D is essential for creating effective and engaging designs.
  • 11.
    References - Arnheim, R.(2004). *Art and Visual Perception: A Psychology of the Creative Eye*. University of California Press. - Ching, F. D. K. (2007). *Architecture: Form, Space, and Order*. John Wiley & Sons. - Knight, C. (2011). *The Making of Visual Art: A Guide to the Principles of Design*. Routledge. - Lauer, D. A., & Pentak, S. (2012). *Design Basics*. Cengage Learning. - Lidwell, W., Holden, K., & Butler, J. (2010). *Universal Principles of Design*. Rockport Publishers. - Lupton, E., & Phillips, J. C. (2015). *Graphic Design: The New Basics*. Princeton Architectural Press. - Meggs, P. B. (2011). *Meggs’ History of Graphic Design*. John Wiley & Sons. - Zakia, R. D. (2013). *Perception and Imaging: Photography as a Way of Seeing*. Focal Press.
  • 12.
    Thank you "In 3Ddesign, space is not just an absence of mass; it is a dynamic element that shapes how we perceive and interact with the world.“ – Frank Lloyd Wright (paraphrased)