The new year is upon us, and with that comes new trends and methodologies for web design. Many of the design trends for 2023 are not surprising – designing with accessibility in mind, inclusion of video content, and a continuation of 2022’s emphasis on large and stylized typography. What was surprising was the unexpected shift from simplicity in design to a more visually busy approach – including techniques like overstimulation, “just for fun” interactions, and the re-emergence of the Y2K aesthetic.
This year’s style predictions are reminiscent of the days of early web design. I sifted through and felt admittedly unsure if I could make a case for many of them, given my primarily B2B client roster. To that end, I’ve selected the top 2023 design trends that work best for designers working in the B2B arena.
Shape Texturization
This design technique will allow for the use of organic shapes to add texture and personality to the page without overpowering content delivery. In fact, when used strategically, these design elements can guide the eye to important information or actionable interface elements. With this technique also comes the opportunity to place emphasis on branding in a subtle – and often useful – manner.
Video Content
Although not a design element in and of itself, the inclusion of video content as introduction or as supplemental content will be hot in 2023. Visually, video content can help break up text heavy pages. They are also enticing to users and have a high retention rate. Video is great for on-the-go audiences who have less time to read – a short video can provide key highlights and messaging.
Large Text and Customized, Typography Layouts
Larger fonts and creative typography continue to trend, especially in headlines. Fonts essentially become the hero in this approach, catching the viewer’s eye with a bold expression of message.
Bright Color Palettes – perhaps AI generated
Along with typography, color will be big in 2023’s designer’s playground. The use of bright colors, or bright accent colors layered onto black and white, will be trending. Bolder palettes, which can even be generated by artificial intelligence, will be on the rise. Designers can have some fun creating standout palettes of their own, or upload a photo to Adobe or Canva for palette generation and suggestions.
Lightweight, more efficient web pages
In 2023, we’ll be designing and building websites that contain lightweight, optimized pages with load times that are faster than ever. Designers and developers will be keeping this top of mind, and the way we build pages for many of our clients will shift to a “headless” approach; where content is stored separately and can be served across a variety of applications. With this comes more opportunity for customizable viewing experiences, and gated/premium content – the sky truly is the limit.
Conclusion
2023 brings a variety of creative options for designers to elevate web site aesthetics, and improve the user experience in the process. We’re looking forward to creating pages that are an effective expression of form and function. Reach out to Tom to find out how we can help make your website look and function optimally.
