The end of the year is coming and it’s a great opportunity to take a look at what has been happening in the world of web design during the past year. I will make also some predictions to what will be happening in the web world 2015 as it looks like some trends will continue to prevail, while others simply will end with the passing of time.
In the year 2014 we saw some really nice web designing trends that designers followed to help users get the best website experiences. Responsive web design to minimalist and flat design trends were part of the designing world in the year 2014. Web design this past year was also all about focusing on simple and flat design, using big images, videos and infographics. It was all about being simple, quick and to the point. I don’t see web design taking a radically different turn next year. In 2015, websites will continue to be simplified, carry on to put the focus on responsiveness and dictate the way the user interacts with on page content.
Let’s have a look at upcoming 2015 web trends:
1. Responsiveness
We all know how mobile phones, tablets and other gadgets have taken over the world of technology. People more often tend to surf the web on their mobile phones or tablets, not to carry on laptops everywhere.
Responsive design is a standard now! If your customers can get access to your website whenever they need it, and have the best experience, you can be sure they will come back to your site.
Responsiveness of websites in 2014 has been considered as a standard and in 2015 will become a norm.
So, if your website is still unresponsive, ask your developer for help.
2. Ghost buttons
They’re minimal, classy, stylish, and with the subtle hover animation they’re a delight to use! Personally, I love them.
This trend started in 2014, but Look for it to continue into 2015.
Want to see what they look like? Click here http://websiteswithghostbuttons.tumblr.com/ !
3. More scrolling – less clicking
Scrolling is less painful than clicking when it comes to view a website on tablet on mobile. It makes site more user friendly and easier to navigate. Users also like to see everything that you have to offer on that first page of your website. Definitely, in 2015 it will become a natural process that homepages will get longer.
From SEO point of view, it is better to have website with multiple pages, but you should always (together with your web developer) make sure that mobile users won’t get that pain of clicking.
4. Emphasis on typography
Typography is the king of web design. Designers have excellent choice in different font types. From free to premium ones there are high quality fonts that are made available for designers. Type kits are becoming more affordable (or free in the case of Google Fonts) and that means more freedom for designers.
In 2015 we will see simple, bold typography elements combined with the large images. Because content is king, the emphasis on typography should come as no surprise
5. Large images and videos
In 2014 we have seen really amazing web designs focused on big images. Owing to beautiful images your site will stand out. You can display tag line or ghost button over the top of your image. They help to capture user’s attention into your website and business.
Don’t be afraid to incorporate a big, beautiful background image or video on your homepage! Make your website outstanding.
6. Microinteractions
Microinteraction is a burgeoning trend. It is basically an engagement technique on the web front. Microinteractions are small signup boxes that appear in front of a webpage and everything in the background fades.
You should be seeing more and more microinteractions in 2015. The goal here is for the interaction not to feel like a pop-up, but rather an integrated part of the user experience. They liven up a usually static webpage.
7. Flat design
And, finally, we have flat design. Which, on purpose, I left for the end. Because it’s at the end doesn’t mean it’s less important. Actually, I would say, it’s the most important trend, which started about two years ago. In 2014, flat design was the main trend, and in 2015 it’s going to be the king of the kings! Flat design definitely won over realistic design in the last couple of years. Check out this amazing website http://www.flatvsrealism.com/ to see what’s the difference between two design and which one you prefer. I’m sure you will have fun visiting this website.
Why? Two reasons. First, it’s how we consume content. Since flat design is so focused on minimalist principals, sites appear clutter-free and content focused. Second, it’s how we access content. Flat design has also enabled web designers/developers to create sites that are better optimised for mobile platforms.
Conclusion
It looks like many of the important 2014 trends will carry on in 2015. My hope is that many of the trend I outlined will become the new standard as has happened with responsive design.
In terms of web plans for 2015 make sure your website is up to date and follows the most important web standards. If you are not sure, just ask your web developers.
I wish you all Merry Christmas and very Happy New Year 2015!!!
Sylwia Lukjanowska is a Creative Thinker and Web Developer at Happy Creative, a full service marketing and creative agency based in Blackpool, Lancashire. To learn more or contact us please go to www.happy-creative.co.uk
