Web Design Trends for 2017

Look out, these will be almost everywhere:  

1.  Visuals

We are all visual creatures. Before humans learned how to speak - they used to draw paintings and scribbles on cave walls. Therefore, have in mind that when designing a website - the emphasis should be put on the visuals, be that imagery or video content. Experiment with full screen slideshows. It draws attention, sets the mood right away and looks amazing! Just like our D'Avella and Onyx design kits.
Moreover, with brands viciously fighting for user's attention through ads, newsletters, pop-ups - people start seeking a more personal and genuine connection with the companies they love, wondering who’s behind the brand/website/product. Hence, more and more companies opt to use authentic photos, of real employees and offices, rather than easy to spot stock images. Thus, when possible create and use your own visual content.  

2.  Illusive Chaos

At some point, nearly everyone will get fed up with creating and having simple layouts with basic aligned details. And who wants to be basic and boring anyways? Consider asymmetry, dynamic sliders, animated elements or geometric shapes and place your elements so they give out the feeling that they exist somewhere beyond the screen lines - for example Miro. Create an “illusive chaos” - minimalism with a twist.

3.  Video & VR

Let’s put it simply. 2016 was the year of video content. And this movement isn’t going anywhere, so whether you like it or not - include video whenever you create a new design. Besides, a video is like a million words, it’s an easy solution to explain a product, show it’s features, share client stories and avoid long scroll, never ending pages.
Short quality videos on the homepage, some interactive animations and 3D effects are your golden key to high traffic, great user engagement and low bounce rates.

4.  Vivid Typography

Experiment with typography as your key visual. Play with large, bold letters which overlap your images, or even replace them. A beautiful portfolio is crucial, but well incorporated typography, which adds character, sets a mood (like Black Onyx) or ads a vibe of elegance and delicacy (like Sicilia) will take your website design to a whole new level. Use different fonts families, spice up your titles, header or subcategories. Even add some movement and animation to it, if you wish. Some rules are there to break - remember point #2?

5.  Smooth Transitions

Design your website as you were to narrate a story. One page transitioning into another, one section/block seamlessly leading to the next one. Make full stops where you intend to capture your user’s attention and curiosity for a longer period of time, perhaps next to a call to action or essential content (as an example take Onyx). Users don’t have patience for “jumping/boring” pages that are hard to follow. Provide the smoothest and most pleasant surfing between your pages and sections and be sure that your users will highly appreciate that, even if unconsciously.

6.  Moody Color Palettes

Switch to the dark side - they have cookies, or at least higher website engagement. Do not be afraid to use for your site design some dimmer and moodier colors. Play with the shades to create a different and memorable atmosphere for your visitors - a great illustration is Black Onyx design kit. However, don't stress if the dark palette is not a part of your visual identity and brand - you can always design a beautiful site on a clean, light background - just keep in mind the previous 5 points.

In the midst of everything - trends, movements and preferences - try not to lose your own voice and style. Your website must reflect your business, the way you communicate with your fans and clients, and most importantly You as a creative. Aim high, but stop when you feel it’s a perfect representation of yourself. Follow trends, yet still be different. Tell your story in your own unique way - and be sure you’ll leave a strong, lasting impression on your visitors and potential clients.

Squaremuse Team.