Creative Clutter

Have you ever spent hours working on something, like a photo composition, or an essay, or even a business plan only to continue feeling like there’s just something off about it?

I’ve been here countless times— and if I’m honest, will be there many more times too. It’s the point I’ll usually go to bed or step away for a few hours, hoping things are clearer when I come back whatever I was working on.

To me, making it better usually involves adding something. More words to the page in search of the right ones, another prop for the tablescape to find balance.

But recently, I’ve been taking a tip from the world of design.

Filling empty space

I think it’s safe to say that we’re all a little self conscious when we’re trying something new and sharing it with other people.

I mean, I want it to at least look like I know what I’m talking about. I get caught up in trying to make it ‘good’ which usually results in an unclear and complicated draft.

I’m trying to do too much, and ending up not doing anything at all.

It’s common for beginner designers to be uncomfortable using whitespace and getting the urge to fill it— creating busier designs.

This is where the number one rule of design comes in: Reduce clutter.

Cleaning it up

You know when you look at a good design. Everything just flows— there’s a clear hierarchy and alignment that guide your eyes to all the right places.

It’s kind of like looking at a freshly made bed or a newly tidied apartment. The clutter is gone and only what you’re supposed to notice remains.

When something feels off about what I’m working on, I’ve usually found there’s something that needs to be removed—not added.

Apparently Coco Chanel, the legendary fashion designer, gave the similar advice:

"Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off."