Section unity

Each section should have its own look. This look is created by designing elements that will be repeated on every spread in the section. This repetition makes the spreads in the section hold together. They become unified.

Elements that are commonly used to unify a section include: headline treatments, screens, rule lines, column formats, initial letters and section logotypes. Section editors are usually responsible for finalizing the elements to be used to unify their section.

By creating a distinct look for each part of the book, you serve your reader. After looking through the book a couple of times, he will be able to identify sections simply by looking at the unifying elements.

Unified layouts need not be monotonous. In fact, they should exhibit some variety. This can be achieved by changing the shape or position of the photographs and the unifying elements, such that they are still recognizable, but located in different areas of the page.

Examine these layouts to learn more about how to create clear signals for your reader, without making sections monotonous. Notice how these spreads have been unified by using a limited number of unifying elements. As always, less clutter does more for the overall design.

By creating a distinct look for each part of the book, you serve your reader.