Proportion

Pyramid

Proportion is the ratio of the parts to the whole display. It is a comparative relationship of distances, sizes, amounts, degrees, or parts. Each item may look normal when isolated, but if it is inconsistent in area or dimension with neighbouring items, it seems out of proportion. Consider each piece of merchandise in relation to all the other merchandise.

The blocks in the pyramid are all in proportion to each other. If not in proportion, then people have trouble looking at it.

Steps / Repetition

The size of these steps is also in proportion.

Proportion is also important when repetition is used in a display.

Proportion

• When planning a display concerning proportion, consider the following points:
• Do not use all large objects, because there is nothing to break the monotony and sameness of that large feeling.
• Adding an odd number of smaller, related items to large pieces create more interest and balance.
• Proportions take on more meaning when items define one another. For example, the size of a dinosaur is defined when it is standing next to a two-story house.
• Proportion and balance can best be accomplished when articles within the display play each other off through their size, shape, and colour.
• Ratio of merchandise to space is critical:
  • Each piece of merchandise must be considered in relation to others.
  • The ratio of props and show-cards to merchandise must be in proportion to avoid the appearance of stressing or selling your props, rather than your merchandise.
  • Each object should not be too large or too small, nor too heavy or too light in proportion to other items in display areas.
• Proportion and contrast are important elements of good display. Drastically changing the proportions and the colour and texture can work wonders in attracting attention to a display. For example, a pair of baby shoes will appear smaller and more delicate when placed next to an enormous teddy bear.