Design grid

The layout system is based on clearly defined design layers, including image, text and logo layers. Page margins, the column grid, gutter widths and the baseline grid also define the structural framework of all printed materials.

Page margins establish the usable design area within a format. The column grid enables text, images, tables, and graphic elements to be arranged consistently yet flexibly. Defined gutter widths ensure sufficient separation and readability, while the baseline grid guarantees the precise alignment of body copy, captions and supplementary information throughout the document.

The design of each printed document is guided by its subject area. Topic-specific corporate colours are applied consistently to labels, highlights, charts, illustrations, and graphic elements. For example, blue represents DNA-related content, red represents RNA-related content, and teal represents tissue-related content. Additional subject areas and their corresponding colour assignments are defined in the 'Colours' section.

Together with the defined corporate typography, these elements create a clear, consistent and recognisable visual system that improves orientation and strengthens brand recognition.

The brochure cover is structured using defined design layers, comprising image, text and logo layers. This multi-layered approach creates a clear visual hierarchy, establishing a strong link between imagery, content and brand identity.

To ensure optimum readability, the text area is placed on a transparent white background. This allows the cover image to remain visible while providing sufficient contrast for headings, subheadings, and supplementary information.

The imagery and corporate colours should reflect the subject area and emphasise the publication’s core message. Subject-specific corporate colours may be used for text, highlights and graphic elements. As an alternative to standard grey, the colour corresponding to the subject area can be used for headings. This further enhances thematic differentiation and visual recognisability.

All typographical elements must comply with the established corporate typography guidelines to ensure consistency across all publications.

The reverse side is also subject to a fixed system of colour coding.

The cover and back cover are based on a five-column grid system that provides a clear and consistent structure across all corporate publications. The grid ensures visual alignment, supports the flexible placement of headlines, imagery and brand elements, and creates a coherent appearance throughout the entire document family.

The inside pages are based on a consistent grid system to ensure visual clarity, structure and uniformity in all publications. This grid system provides a flexible framework for placing text, images, diagrams and other content, while maintaining a coherent and balanced layout.

The defined column structure and spacing support a clear information hierarchy and ensure consistent alignment across all page types. This enables a wide range of layout variations while preserving the publication's overall visual identity.