Logos are like a firm handshake. They leave lasting impressions. But not all logos shout. Some whisper through clever design—like the use of negative space. It’s subtle, smart, and seriously cool. Ready to see how?
TL;DR
Negative space logos use the empty areas in a design to form a whole new image. They’re clever, fun, and often make people take a second look. In this article, we’ll walk you through 10 inspiring examples and simple tips to create your own. Get ready to boost your logo game with smart simplicity!
What Is Negative Space?
Negative space is the area around and between the main parts of an image. Instead of just filling it up, designers use it to form shapes or tell a story.
Think of the white arrow in the FedEx logo or the bear in the Toblerone logo. You might not see them at first glance, but when you do—mind blown.
Why Use Negative Space in Logos?
Using negative space can:
- Make your logo memorable
- Create a sense of cleverness
- Help tell your brand story
- Keep things clean and simple
10 Awesome Negative Space Logo Inspirations
1. FedEx
This one’s a classic. It looks like regular text at first. But peek between the “E” and the “x”—see that arrow?
It shouts “speed” and “movement.” Perfect for a delivery company.
2. NBC
It looks like a colorful fan, right? But focus on the white part—it’s a peacock!
The peacock stands for pride in their colorful programming.
3. Spartan Golf Club
From one direction, it’s a golfer swinging his club. From another, it’s a Spartan helmet. Genius!
Combines strength and sport in one simple symbol.
4. Yoga Australia
A woman in a yoga pose makes up the logo—but inside her pose is the map of Australia!
Stylish and meaningful at the same time.
5. Guild of Food Writers
A spoon? Nope. Look again—it’s also a fountain pen nib!
Combines writing and food into one clever tool-shaped image.
6. WinePlace
This logo cleverly uses wine bottles to form the shape of a map pin.
It tells you exactly what the brand is about—wine and place!
7. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
At first glance, it looks like a tree. But peek into the white space on each side—see the gorilla and lion?
It’s an entire zoo scene hidden in one logo!
8. Elefont
This quirky logo uses the letter “e,” but hides a cute little elephant in the negative space.
Fun, playful, and perfect for a light-hearted brand.
9. Eagle Mountain Capital
A mountain top and an eagle—built together with shape and space.
It uses symmetry and angles to hide the eagle in the peak of the mountain.
10. Formula 1
You see the black F and red lines. But hidden in the middle? A white “1”.
It shows speed and precision—just like the sport.
How to Design Your Own Negative Space Logo
Want your brand to have that magic touch too? Here’s a simple guide.
1. Start with Your Brand Message
Know what you want to say. What’s your vibe—playful, serious, bold, or elegant?
Your message will guide your design choices.
2. Play with Shapes and Letters
Look at the letters in your brand name. Can they be shaped into something else?
Even just flipping or slicing letters might reveal hidden shapes.
3. Sketch Ideas First
Grab paper and doodle! No pressure to make it perfect.
Try joining letters, symbols, and objects in unexpected ways.
4. Think in Silhouettes
Negative space works in chunks—not tiny details. Try the “squint test.” Squint at your logo from afar. If the shape still makes sense, you’re on the right track.
5. Use Contrast Wisely
Black on white or white on color makes negative space pop. Make sure your hidden design has enough contrast to be noticed.
6. Show It to Fresh Eyes
Others might see something you missed—or miss what you see. Share your logo with people and ask what they notice first. If they “get it,” you nailed it!
Tools That Can Help
Here are some simple tools to try:
- Canva – Great for beginners!
- Adobe Illustrator – Perfect for detailed, vector logos
- Procreate or Photoshop – Good for creative sketching
- Logo design generators – Try then tweak the results
Tips to Remember
- Less is more – Negative space needs room to breathe
- Don’t force it – If it doesn’t fit naturally, try a new approach
- Balance creativity with clarity
- Test in black and white first – If it looks good without color, it’ll look great with it
Why People Love These Logos
Because they’re like puzzles. And people love puzzles.
They also look more professional and clever. A good negative space logo makes you do a double-take. Each time someone spots the hidden design, they smile. That’s brand magic!
Final Thoughts
Negative space logos are more than just designs. They’re visual stories wrapped in simplicity. And the best part? Anyone can try them.
You don’t need to be a design wizard. Just be curious. Try things out. Flip shapes. Mix ideas. Surprise yourself.
And remember—every blank space can be full of meaning.