In our reading of various web design blogs and talking with programmers, we have noticed a number of trends that are gaining prominence in current website design. Here a brief summary of some of the top trends in web site design.
1. Responsive layouts
With more and more people dong their web viewing on phones and tablets, the need for website design to be dynamic and fluid is at the top of the list. Responsive layouts allow for a uniform web design that viewing that is readable and usable on any type of platforms.
2. Single page designs / Vertical scrolling
Along with the use of more mobile viewing devices and the use of responsive layouts, websites have become more vertical with their content. This trend has evolved towards an easier end-user experience since it’s easier to scroll up and down with the flick of a thumb.
3. Fixed navigation header bar
Though fixed headers work for any type of website, this trend of the navigation header bar always being in the window when scrolling provides a great user experience since the navigation is always in view.
4. Oversized photo backgrounds, graphics and full-screen typography
When done properly, large photos and oversized graphics are an excellent way to capture the visitor’s attention.
5. Minimalist home and landing pages
With so many websites vying for the viewer’s attention, rather that bombarding a visitor with all of the site’s content on the home or landing page, the trend is to keep everything simple with a focused core product or message to draw the visitor into the site. There’s a greater use of open or white space along with larger, eye-catching graphics and typography to direct the viewer’s attention.
6. Greater use of illustrative graphics
Website design is all about catching and holding the viewer’s attention. The trend towards well done and graphically interesting illustrations rather that photos is showing up on sites to give them textural interest, mood changes or highlight a site’s branded look.
Whether starting out fresh or updating a current website, MMi Creative is ready to work with you to design a website that also works for you.