For web design, 2018 has been a very exciting year.
Over the past year, we have witnessed technological advancements that have helped us connect with our users better. The boundaries are being pushed by new styles, a strong focus on accessibility guidelines and documentation in order to make the web a more accessible and consistent environment for everyone.
With all of the numerous developments, it is critical to slow down and check the trends to see which ones will be sticking around as well as the new things that are expected to emerge in 2019.
1. Flat Design
This minimalist design approach features using open and clean space, simple two-dimension illustrations, and bright colours. The design style simply started out as just another trend; however, over the years, it has evolved into a standard of web design.
The increase in popularity of flat design may be attributed to needing fast-load websites that can give users an enjoyable browsing experience on desktop and mobile. For the most part, flat design relies on simple illustrations that are a lot less data-heavy compared to websites that use heavy visuals or large images. That means a much faster loading time overall.
2. Animated GIFs
Users these days have an “instant gratification” mindset whenever they are searching for information. This means we have just a small amount of time to catch their attention and give them whatever they are searching for.
Animated GIFs, produced by the likes of NRG Digital, can really shine here. GIFs are able to convey complex ideas very quickly while being entertaining and engaging.
3. Machine Learning and Conversational Bots
It has become second nature to chat with bots. We have seen massive advancements in artificial intelligence and bots capabilities.
We see this on a daily basis when Google provides us with auto-suggestions or whenever Facebooks ask if you want to be tagged in photos.
Numerous companies are starting to recognise the benefits that bots can provide to organisations, which include:
- Improved efficiency through allowing for time-saving and easier transitions between cases.
- Greater convenience by providing users with instant response and then filter them to the right contact-based for their issues.
4. White Space
As previously mentioned, web design is starting to move more towards a “less is more” approach.
That means we are seeing websites going for simpler layouts that have more white space. Also called negative space, white space is just empty space on the page. This can be viewed as breathing room surrounding page elements.
Using white space for separating the various sections on the page helps to improve readability and it makes it easier for important information to be digested by users.
5. Asymmetrical Layouts and Broken Grid
Web design has recently placed lots of emphasis on designing in a set grid.
Using a grid system helps web designers maintain consistency and alignment through a design. It also makes it much easier for developers to bring the design to life. But we are starting to see designers increasingly break away from the standard grid. That provides designers with more creative freedom in their works and it creates another layer of hierarchy on the page and enables more unique and intriguing designs.
6. Using Organic Shapes
These are any uneven and irregular shape. It is a polite way of saying that they are imperfect. They look more human and hand-drawn. Their unusual appearance can be used for grabbing the user’s attention and a personal touch is added to your website.
When it is combined with an image or illustration, they also can really add a nice depth to your website, and break the monotony up of the same squares and circles that we are so accustomed to seeing in design.
There you go, the top six trends I believe will be shaping how we will be designing in 2019.
I believe from an aesthetic viewpoint, we will be seeing websites continuing to move towards the practical and clean flat design style.