What type of design is characterized by variety with an underlying unity?

A design characterized by variety with an underlying unity is known as harmonious design. This concept emphasizes the balance and cohesion achieved through diverse elements that complement one another rather than competing for attention. In harmonious designs, different colors, shapes, textures, and patterns work together, creating an overarching theme that binds the various components. This allows for a visually engaging experience while maintaining consistency, which can evoke emotions or convey particular messages effectively.

In contrast, symmetrical design typically features equal balance on either side of a central line, creating a sense of stability and formality but lacking the variety of elements that contribute to harmony. Asymmetrical design, while dynamic and more informal than symmetrical design, focuses more on balance between different elements without being uniform, thus may not achieve the same level of cohesive unity found in harmonious design. Repetitive design refers to the use of repeated patterns or motifs, which can create rhythm but may not showcase the variety needed to establish harmony. Thus, harmonious design is the concept that best encapsulates the idea of diversity working together under a unified aesthetic.