Spacing

Foundations

Spacing is the art of setting a distance between the elements that compose the page or screen of an app. It contributes to a pleasing and functional layout.

Introduction

We use 2 types of measure units for spacing inside and between components: Pixels, and the gutters size (G).

Pixels and gutters are used to create consistent and visually pleasing spacing between and inside components.

Pixels (px) are a fixed, absolute unit that stays the same regardless of screen size or resolution. Using pixels as a unit of measurement can be useful for setting precise and consistent spacing between elements, especially when working with smaller, detailed elements.

Gutters (G) are a unit of measurement that refers to the space between columns in a the grid. A gutter size is typically defined in pixels and it is used to create consistent spacing between columns, it helps to create a structured layout and improve readability. It is a relative unit that can be scaled depending on the screen size and device.

By using a combination of both units, we create a visually pleasing and easy-to-use layout that is consistent across different screen sizes and devices. Pixels can be used for precise spacing of smaller elements, while gutters can be used to create consistent spacing between larger elements like columns. This allows for a balance between precision and flexibility when working with spacing, and it can help to ensure that the design is visually pleasing and easy to use on different devices.

Spacing based on gutter value

G is used to space components within a group and between groups. As this value depends on the device used, it allows the layout to be responsive and to adapt to the screen size.

As a reminder, the gutter value is: 8px for mobile, 20px for tablet, 28px for laptop and 32px for desktop.

A group as a list item

A group as a list item

The gutter value is also used for padding:

Section article List Grid & Highlight Padding on mobile phones

Section article List Grid & Highlight Padding on mobile phones

Modal windows use the gutter values as padding

Modal windows use the gutter values as padding

Spacing based on pixels

Pixels are used for small components as below, when space is limited:

Top Navigation made of icons (Template Article, detail section)

Top Navigation made of icons (Template Article, detail section)

Info block with avatar and icons

Info block with avatar and icons

We also use pixels for some components that will have the same organization on all platforms.

For example:

Text Field (title up) Mobile Medium

Text Field (title up) Mobile Medium

Icon button Medium

Icon button Medium

The vertical spacing option

Users can choose between 3 options for the spacing of the blocks, depending on how they want the page to look, more airy or more compact :

1G — Small Spacing

2G — Medium Spacing

3G — Large Spacing

This concerns list items and widgets

Gutters for vertical spacing

Gutters for vertical spacing

The divider option

If the divider option is activated, the space between the elements is applied twice. Like the vertical spacing option, this concerns list items and widgets.

The divider for vertical spacing

The divider for vertical spacing

Conseils pour créer une app