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Everything you wanted to know about Google Material Design (Part Two)

In part two of our four part series, we take a closer look at material as the metaphor that underpins the design principles of Google Material Design.

If you missed part one of our four-part series on Google Material Design, don’t hesitate to go back and take a look at the big picture changes that Google will be implementing across the web, Android and Chrome OS.

In part two, we take a closer look at material as the metaphor that underpins the design principles of Google Material Design.

Material is the metaphor

In part one of our four-part series, you read about how Google Material Design really means a design that focuses on material reality and how this can be delivered by the limitless magic of technology. In case you missed it, what this means is that the bases of Google Material Design will be to unify reality and technology. The design principles will be based on tactile reality and inspired by paper and ink.

Let’s take a closer look at what this means for the changes of Google design:

Surfaces and edges

Our brains are wired to understand the boundaries of objects. This is a critical part of the way we perceive the world. Google has harnessed the power of these innate processes to help users define boundaries and ground the understanding of elements in reality. The rules of physics apply to these visual elements in a way that’s not necessary to the technology but allows users to easily understand and use.

Tactile attributes

You know what a piece of paper does and how it differs from the space that lies outside the boundary of the paper’s edge. Google Material Design is based on the same kinaesthetic design principle. Of course, you will be able to do more than you could do in the real world, but the basis of understanding is there for you to rely on.

Light, surface, movement

The fundamental attributes of objects include light, surface and movement. Each of these will play a critical role in how objects interact in Google’s material design principles. These fundamentals will convey how objects exist in relation to each other and how they move independently of one another. Realistic lighting will show detail that is true to reality.

iFactory have been delivering digital excellence since 2004. Our experts in digital design, web development and digital marketing are happy to bring you intelligent web solutions based on the application of the latest in technological evolution to solve the needs of your business. Stay tuned for how graphic elements are bound to change how we use technology with Google Material Design principles, or call iFactory to discuss how this new language could help your business to grow.

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