Science Explains The Enduring Appeal Of Bland, Symmetrical Layouts

Fast Company:

From a literary standpoint, the New Yorker is one of the most engaging publications out there. From a design standpoint, the print magazine seems to embrace the idea that less is more. It’s common for full pages of text to flow through three symmetrical columns with few, if any, visual interruptions. Some might say there’s a minimal elegance to the style, others might call it a little monotonous, but everyone would agree that it emphasizes words over their presentation.

Whether the magazine realizes it or not, these two hallmarks–engaging stories and symmetrical monotony–might not be as unconnected as they appear. New research suggests that textual symmetry can help people pay closer attention to the message in front of them. For a publication intent on conveying information, rather than on simply conveying visual entertainment, symmetrical design might serve as a sort of intellectual lubricant.

Read the whole story: Fast Company