Elevation in user interface design refers to the visual cues that create a sense of depth and hierarchy. It helps users understand the relationships between different elements and can guide their attention to important areas of the interface.
How can we use shadows, layers, and depth to create visual interest and hierarchy?
Consider how elevation can emphasize important elements or create separation between different sections.
Example: In Cluster, use subtle shadows to lift content cards slightly off the background, making them feel more interactive.
What level of depth complexity (e.g., flat, material, skeuomorphic) is appropriate for the design?
Determine the overall visual style that best fits your brand and user expectations.
Example: For Cluster, adopt a material design-inspired approach with clear, but not overly dramatic, depth cues.
How will elevation change with user interaction?
Plan how elevation will be used to provide feedback for hover, active, and selected states.
Example: Increase the shadow on Cluster's content cards when hovered to indicate interactivity.
How does elevation contribute to the overall information architecture?
Use elevation to reinforce the visual hierarchy and guide users through the interface.
Example: In Cluster's dashboard, use higher elevation for primary action buttons and lower elevation for secondary actions.
Use a consistent elevation scale throughout the interface.
Example
Define 3-5 elevation levels for Cluster (e.g., subtle, medium, high) and use them consistently across different components.
Ensure elevation is meaningful and not just decorative.
Example
In Cluster, use higher elevation to distinguish interactive elements like buttons and cards from static background elements.
Consider how elevation will adapt to different color schemes, including dark mode.
Example
Adjust shadow colors and intensities in Cluster's dark mode to maintain the sense of elevation without creating harsh contrasts.
Use subtle animations when changing elevation states.
Example
Implement smooth transitions when elevating Cluster's content cards on hover, enhancing the sense of physicality.
Be mindful of performance impacts when using complex shadows.
Example
Optimize shadow rendering in Cluster by using CSS box-shadow properties judiciously, especially for elements that appear frequently.
Combine elevation with other visual cues like color and size for maximum effect.
Example
In Cluster, use a combination of elevation, size, and color to make the "Create New Cluster" button stand out as the primary action.
Ensure elevation doesn't interfere with content legibility.
Example
When using overlays or modals in Cluster, ensure the shadow doesn't obscure important content underneath.
Use elevation to create a sense of layering and focus.
Example
In Cluster's content editor, use elevation to make the editing toolbar appear to float above the content area, creating a clear separation.