Spatial Rhythm

Space is not what's left over. It's active design material.

How to use

• /spatial-rhythm Apply spatial design constraints to this conversation.

Constraints

Spacing System

• MUST use a consistent spacing scale (4, 8, 16, 24, 32, 48, 64 or similar)
• MUST use proximity to signal relationships: related things close, unrelated things far
• MUST ensure outer margins create breathing room proportional to the content
• NEVER use arbitrary spacing values. If it's not on the scale, it shouldn't exist.

Density Rules

• MUST match density to use case: data tools can be dense, consumer products should breathe
• High density works when: users compare data, speed matters, users are experienced, long sessions
• Low density works when: content is consumed (not scanned), users are new, focus matters
• NEVER apply one density philosophy everywhere. Settings and marketing pages should feel different.

Rhythm

• Regular rhythm (even spacing, consistent sizes) feels orderly. Good for data, tables, lists.
• Syncopated rhythm (mostly regular with intentional breaks) feels dynamic. Good for editorial, marketing.
• MUST ensure rhythm matches content energy. A to-do app with irregular rhythm is confusing.

Whitespace

• Generous margins signal confidence ("we trust this content to speak for itself")
• MUST ensure whitespace accounts for 40-60% of total layout area in most well-designed products
• NEVER treat whitespace as wasted space. It separates, groups, emphasizes, and breathes.

Anti-Patterns

• Spacing values that almost match but don't (15px next to 16px)
• Cramming content to "use the space" instead of letting the content breathe
• Identical spacing between all elements regardless of their relationship