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Web Design Trends 2024: What’s In and What’s Out?
As we move into 2024, web design trends continue to evolve, driven by new technologies, user preferences, and changing aesthetics. Below, we’ll dive into some of the major trends defining this year’s designs, along with examples of what’s in, what’s out, and tips for creating a visually appealing, user-friendly website.
Top Web Design Trends for 2024
1. Immersive 3D Elements and Graphics (IN)
Why It’s In: 3D graphics are now smoother, faster, and easier to integrate than ever before. These elements create a more engaging experience, pulling users deeper into the site’s content.
Example: Nike’s Air Max Site – Nike’s website uses 3D animations and dynamic scrolling to showcase their Air Max shoe line, creating a captivating, interactive experience for users. Nike integrates a 3D model of their shoes. Users can rotate and view the shoes from all angles, offering a realistic and interactive product showcase.
Design Tip: Use 3D elements sparingly to avoid overwhelming users or slowing down the site. Small, impactful interactions are often more effective than a fully 3D interface.
2. Scrolling Transformations in Web Design (IN)
Why It’s In: Parallax and scroll animations keep users engaged and help tell a story as they move through the content. It’s a great way to guide users’ attention and add depth to page structures.
Example: Apple’s iPad Pro – Apple uses scrolling effects to highlight each feature of the iPad Pro, making the viewing experience more engaging and interactive.
Design Tip: Prioritize performance with scroll-triggered animations, focusing on effects that enhance rather than distract.
3. Minimalist Neo-Brutalism Style (IN)
Why It’s In: Neo-brutalism uses stark colours, bold typography, and raw aesthetics to create memorable, content-driven designs. This bold take on minimalism lets sites stand out with clarity and purpose.
Example: Bloomberg – Bloomberg’s site uses neo-brutalism with its heavy typography, simple visuals, and content-focused design, presenting information clearly.
Design Tip: This style is ideal for content-heavy sites where readability is key. Don’t hesitate to use bold fonts and contrasting colours, but keep the layout uncluttered.
4. Motion Graphics and Micro interactions (IN)
Why It’s In: Motion graphics add life to the user interface, while micro interactions make interactions feel rewarding, enhancing the overall user experience.
Example: Stripe – Stripe’s site uses micro interactions and animations to create a high-tech, polished look, which aligns well with its brand as a leading financial tech platform.
Design Tip: Keep motion graphics purposeful, guiding users without distracting them. Aim for subtle, functional animations that improve the experience without affecting load speed.
5. Oversized Typography (IN)
Why It’s In: Oversized typography makes a statement and directs user focus, setting the tone of a website from the start.
Example: Spotify’s Campaign Pages – Spotify’s landing pages use large typography to grab attention and establish a clear visual hierarchy.
Design Tip: Pair oversized text with minimal design elements, allowing the typography to take center stage. Keep the colour palette simple to let the text remain the focal point.
Web Design Trends Fading Out in 2024
1. Full-Width Hero Videos (OUT)
Why It’s Out: Full-width hero videos were once impactful but have become outdated due to high data demands and slower load times.
Example of an Updated Approach: Airbnb’s Homepage – Instead of auto-play videos, Airbnb uses high-quality images for a striking, effective first impression.
Design Tip: High-quality images or short animations can convey your message just as effectively, without impacting performance.
2. Heavy Drop Shadows and Gradients (OUT)
Why It’s Out: Bold drop shadows and gradients can feel dated, while modern design leans toward subtle shadows or flat designs.
Example of an Updated Approach: Microsoft’s Website – Microsoft uses subtle shadows and gradients for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Design Tip: Apply shadows and gradients with restraint, using them for subtle depth rather than as dominant design features.
3. Pop-Ups and Intrusive CTAs (OUT)
Why It’s Out: Once effective, intrusive pop-ups and CTAs are now more likely to deter users. They disrupt the browsing experience and impact user satisfaction.
Example of an Updated Approach: Medium – Medium uses non-intrusive banners for sign-ups, which integrate naturally into the reading flow.
Design Tip: Integrate CTAs organically within the content, or consider exit-intent pop-ups rather than disruptive mid-page ones.
4. Excessive Text Content (OUT)
Why It’s Out: Long-winded content feels overwhelming and is less likely to engage readers, who prefer concise, visually digestible information.Today’s users prefer easily digestible, skimmable content. Most visitors scan web pages rather than reading every word, especially on mobile devices. Websites with excessive text can feel cluttered and tiresome to navigate, potentially driving visitors away instead of keeping them engaged.
Example of an Updated Approach: Dropbox – Dropbox’s site uses short, visual sections to make its information easily skimmable and digestible at a glance.
Design Tip: Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and visuals to break up text, focusing on clarity and brevity.
Conclusion: Why These Trends Matter
Staying on top of design trends helps create a modern, user-friendly site that resonates with audiences. Implementing these 2024 design trends thoughtfully can set your website apart while enhancing the user experience. Embrace new design approaches, refine old ones, and always keep your specific audience and goals in mind.