Posts Tagged ‘showcase’

2010 Web Design Trend: Increased White Space

Tuesday, March 9th, 2010

Today’s websites are getting cleaner, more streamlined and focused on an increased use of white space. White space refers to the negative space between and around the elements in a design (graphics, type, columns, etc.). Those who are inexperienced with the use of white space may view it as an empty area, and thus a waste of valuable screen real estate. This blank space, however, is extremely beneficial to a design and the usability of a site. White space will make a layout much easier on the eyes. It reduces the amount of text a viewer will see at one time, increasing legibility and helping a visitor quickly find what they are looking for. It can also improve the structure of a site by creating a visual separation of elements, allowing content to stand out from the background. Not only is it functional, increasing space can also give a web site a more professional, uncluttered, and fresh appearance, providing a strong platform on which to present your message. Check out the examples below for excellent uses of white space:

Apple

Jason Reynolds

Indie Labs

Buffalo

Astheria

Left

2010 Web Design Trend: Speaking Navigation

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

For some, one word navigational links simply aren’t clear enough. Designers are now trying to explain, in a short snippet, what the visitor should expect to see upon clicking on a link. This additional short phrase has been coined as “speaking navigation,” as opposed to “silent” navigation which follows the traditional style of using keywords to represent a group of information. The end goal in this method is to create a more effective communication style with site visitors. If content can be clarified, navigation will be simplified for the user and could potentially generate increased traffic through the site. Check out the examples below of speaking navigation:

Sifter

Sifter

Lift Interactive

Lift Interactive

AgentPoint

AgentPoint

Lennon Bus

Lennon Bus

You Version

You Version

Dishizzle

Dishizzle

goodbytes

goodbytes

2010 Trend Prediction: Subtle Textured Backgrounds

Friday, January 29th, 2010

Subtle background textures will be popping up all over the web this year. This new trend doesn’t go overboard with textures (as seen in many grunge styles), but focuses on simplicity and a more precise use of texture. The goal of the trend is to give the site a surface and the illusion of actual texture, but to not distract from the other visual elements on the page. A subtle texture can add dimension and depth to a design, creating a sensory experience for the viewer. If the texture is used well it can become a significant and beautiful feature of the web design. Check out the examples below showcasing great uses of subtle textures.

One Twenty Seven

One Twenty Seven

Delibar

Delibar

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