BS25102 Principles of Design – Semester I – BDes – R-2025

Subject Code & Name: BS25102 – Principles of Design

Regulation: R-2025

Semester: I (First Semester)

Branch: B. Des. (BDes)

Credits / L-T-P: 3 Credits | L-T-P: 3-0-0

Course Objectives

• To introduce students to the fundamental elements and principles of design.
• To understand the cultural influences on the interpretation and evolution of form.
• To explore basic geometric shapes and their applications in design.
• To analyse form and space in design.

Full Unit-wise Syllabus

Unit I – Introduction to Elements and Principles of Design

Primary elements of Design – line, shape, form, colour, tone, texture and space – Geometry in Design – texture, and colour – in relation to light, and pattern. Synthesis of these elements evolves understanding of basics of design – static and dynamic aspects of different compositions of design elements – order to chaos – Regularity and irregularity.

Unit II – Ordering Principles

Introduction to various ordering principles: Axis, Symmetry, Hierarchy, Rhythm, Repetition, Transformation, and Balance – symmetrical, radial, occult; harmony; unity; variety; rhythm; emphasis – scale – proportion – Golden Section, Le Modular, Fibonacci series, Renaissance Theories. Introduction to Gestalt Principles. Figure and ground, positive and negative spaces.

Unit III – Form and Space

Form and Space, Basic Forms, Transformation of Forms, Formal Collisions of Geometry, Defining Space, Spatial Organization, Spatial Relationships, and Circulation.

Unit IV – Concept of Geometry and Visual Composition

Introduction to different 3-D forms and primitive forms, shapes – characteristic features and their behaviour – understanding the behaviour when combined. Transformation of 2-D to 3-D – process – principles – types – Composition – types – Principles of composition using grids, symmetrical/asymmetrical, Rule of Thirds, Centre of Interest, Gestalt’s Theory of Visual Composition.

Unit V – Colour Theory

Introduction to colour theory – spectrum of colours – application – concept – Colour wheel – primary, secondary, tertiary colours, colour wheel, colour schemes, colour value, intensity, and modification of colour hues – tints, shades, neutralization. Colour chart types, making and using. Colour harmony, use of colour harmony. The psychological impact of colour – warm, cool and neutral colours, impact of specific hues, meanings of colour, colour and form, colour and light, colour and surface qualities, colour and distances and scales.

Course Outcomes (COs)

• CO1: Develop a basic understanding of design elements and principles. Gain knowledge of geometry, composition, and visual organization.
• CO2: Build familiarity with form, space, and spatial relationships. Develop the ability to recognize and analyze visual compositions.
• CO3: Develop the ability to consider colour, form, and perception in design, and the ability to design simple compositions.
• CO4: Understand the cultural influences on design and develop awareness of their impact on form and visual expression.

Assessment Pattern (Quick Note)

• Weightage: Continuous Internal Assessment 40% | End Semester Examinations 60%
• Internal methodology: Two Assessments with equal weightage – Internal written Test/Examination (50%), Assignment (50%) of any mode such as study, seminar, and or a combination of modes, etc.

Source: Official Anna University – B. Des. R-2025 Syllabus
Last Updated: September 2026