Web design trends are in a constant state of flux. Some of these trends are inconsequential while others become a staple of web design for years to come.
Most web design trends in 2021 share one thing in common: a unique blend of digital and customizability like never before. Here is our breakdown of the most popular trends in website design for 2021 and beyond.
1. Dark Mode
Apple takes the blame for this one with their “Dark Mode’ theme that went system-wide with iOS 13.0. Most apps and websites alike followed suit and gave users the choice of dark mode. Since we’re glued to our computers all day and every day, it’s only fair that our eyes get some form of visual relief. This is where ‘dark mode’ comes in.
2. Minimalism is Here to Stay
Most websites have nauseating animations and 3D renderings constantly flying on your screen. Minimalism seems to take care of that clutter and only loads essential elements with bold layouts, limited colors, graphics, and copy. Keep in mind that minimalist layouts can backfire depending on your niche. Remember, there’s no harm in applying colorful 3D graphics as long as you don’t overdo it.
3. Customizable UI
Fully customizable interfaces have been steadily becoming a thing now with most websites. The trend is poised to become more popular in 2021 with designers creating modifiable interfaces and assets that consider different types of users. This kind of personalization doesn’t have to be costly.
Users will be able to tweak interfaces that match their varying needs, from increasing typefaces to choosing a more visually enticing palate.
A good example of a website with a customizable UI is monkeytype.com. You can tinker around with the color palette, font size, typography, and various other features. Click here to check it out now.
4. Neumorphism
Neumorphism is a soft UI that combines shapes, gradients, shadows, highlights, and background colors to create intense buttons. The style heavily borrows takes after skeuomorphism – a design concept that incorporates interface objects that mimic their real-world counterparts in how they appear and how users can interact with them.
5. Abstract Art
Abstract art can adapt to a wide range of businesses and brings a touch of creativity and individuality you won’t find elsewhere. No longer limited to the confines of museums and galleries, abstract artwork beautifully in website layouts, serving as an elegant and versatile backdrop for text and photos.
Abstract art itself is an umbrella term describing a broad spectrum of styles that include fauvism, cubism, color field painting, and surrealism.
However, such busy and ultra colorful backgrounds aren’t always a good choice for eCommerce sites. Instead, try images with plenty of white space for placing product images and a soothing color palette that creates a fuss-free shopping experience for users.
6. Asymmetry
The asymmetry movement is a reaction to how websites are traditionally developed onto a grid. Like the abstract art style, asymmetry design styles offer more creative freedom and individuality. This web design trend makes websites appear less blocky and more exciting to look at.
There are many variants of asymmetric shapes and spaces that allow designers to create unique patterns that instantly grab user attention. Just make sure that your website is easy on the eyes in addition to being functional.
Which Design Trends Should I Adopt?
The above listicle was just a brief glimpse into what we’ll be seeing in 2021. In general, web design trends are leaning more towards creating a better user experience through creativity and art. It’s less about visuals and more about responsiveness, accessibility, and engagement
You don’t have to follow a one-size-fits-all approach to web design. Find something that works for you in a way that improves user satisfaction and boosts the conversion rate of your page.
