Form and structure in traditional Japanese architecture as an alternative grid system solution for Western magazine design

Abstract

<p>This study brings together the Eastern aspect of architecture and the Western aspect of graphic design in utilizing grid systems. In addition, this study discerns the significance of Eastern and Western cultures by introducing select Japanese architectural principles and applying them to the Western graphic design. Specifically, it addresses the possibility of applying specific forms and structures of traditional Japanese architecture as alternative grid systems for Western magazine design. Because the graphic designer has many elements to work with such as the headlines, the pull-quotes, the images and the captions, the blurbs, and the body text, s/he needs to divide the space into active and inactive spaces. The grid, as a tool, offers a device for structural continuity for sequential layouts inherent in magazine design, it gives a pleasant flow throughout the composition, and allows the designer to clearly communicate throughout the composition and create a balance of information and negative space for the readers to rest their eyes on. A series of experimentation using the grid system of one historical structure of traditional Japanese architecture was designed to support this study. Theoretically, many Eastern grid systems may work for this purpose. In application, however, traditional Eastern grids for Western magazine layouts work only sometimes. Therefore, there are several circumstances that need to be considered before application of alternative grid systems.</p>