It’s the New Year, so let’s dive right into design trends for 2024. This year, I’m seeing some overlap from 2023’s design trends, along with a few new interesting techniques and approaches. Here’s a rundown of what’s currently happening in web design from the visual vantage point:
Typography
Good news for designers who love typography: the movement toward large, creative typographic elements is still trending into 2024. This year, incorporating animation into this typography as hero and beyond will also be in favor.
Visible borders
Clear borders around interface elements will be popular this year. We will likely see both page modules and navigation elements sectioned from each other with distinct outlines. The rationale behind this is a movement toward simplicity and clarity in structure, along with improved user experience.
Y2K Design
It was back last year, and it’s back again. Design hearkening back to the late 1990’s and early 2000’s will continue to trend: neon colors, retro illustrations, and oversized text are just a few techniques you can play around with to achieve this aesthetic.
Gradients
Gradients continue to be in favor in 2024. Vibrant and even complex gradients with several colors, angles, and shapes will be trending. If your client’s brand personality aligns, designers can make a bold statement – and have some fun – by creating and applying gradients throughout the site experience.
Glassmorphism
Entering the scene in 2024 is glassmorphism; a design style featuring glass-like effects that give the illusion of transparency. When placed on a colored background, the effect is accentuated, and can be used to create visual interest and draw attention to content. If this sounds intimidating, try a conservative approach: use this effect in your homepage hero or banner area, where design and visual emphasis typically peak.
Hand drawn graphics
If your projects require or would benefit visually from illustration, hand drawn graphics provide an opportunity to be creative while enhancing user experience. These trendy, sketch-like graphics provide a friendly, approachable feeling, keeping users engaged while guiding the eye to or through key information.
Interactive elements
It’s no surprise that interactive elements such as video, 3D animation, and virtual/augmented reality are still highly favored techniques moving into the new year. The goal here is to create a memorable user experience while catering to users who want to know your story, but want it to be told quickly and in an engaging manner.
If your New Year’s resolutions include a web design or redesign, we’d be so happy to be a part of it. Reach out to Christa to start the conversation.
