The Top Web Design Trends of 2016

What are the top web design trends of 2016? There are a number of design trends that are certainly making their mark this year – read on to find out more!

1. Long Scroll Design.

Over the past year, many websites have been created using this type of user interface. While web designers were once concerned with placing all the important information ‘above the fold’, times have changed; these days, site visitors are becoming increasingly use to a longer scroll due to mobile devices.

This type of website also lends itself well to those who are interested in being able to guide users through their ‘story’, as it allows for flow and continuity.

Web users should get used to scrolling; the long scroll is here to stay!

2. Card-Style Layouts.

The rise of card-style layouts is largely due to the increased use of mobile internet; this style of website lends itself well to a smaller screen and also rearranges well to suit different device breakpoints.

Each card contains one concept. By presenting information in small, bite-sized chunks, it makes content easy to digest for users who are scanning through information on the go.

3. Hero Images.

No, web designers are not placing pictures of super heroes on every website they create.

Rather, a hero image is a large, HD image that takes up much of the site above the fold (essentially a large banner image). Thanks to advances in data compression and bandwidth, internet users generally don’t have to combat slow load times these days – making it possible to utilise these large, eye-catching images.

4. Flat Design.

Yes, this one has been around for a while but it’s not going anywhere any time soon. Flat design works well with other popular design trends, such as minimalism, responsive design and even Material Design (see the following point for more information).

5. Material Design.

Google’s new language style, Material Design, helps to create designs that are more realistic to the user via shadow effects and the concept of movement. Google’s goal is to create a visual language that merges classic principles of good design with the innovation and possibility of science and technology. In other words, it’s aiming to create clean, modern design that focuses on user experience.

At present, Material Design has mostly been limited to apps; however, the launch of Material Design Lite (which is more suited to websites) will mean that this design trend will soon become commonplace amongst websites.

Current website trends are all about merging UX with aesthetic appeal. When it comes to creating your website, it’s important to come up with a design that meets your needs. Draw inspiration from current trends, but remember that not every trend will suit every website!