10 Web Design Trends Leading the Way in 2017

12 Jan 10 Web Design Trends Leading the Way in 2017

Today visitors to websites are sophisticated, savvy and very demanding. That said quality web design is absolutely essential to making a lasting first impression. Studies have indicated that visitors to websites can be expected to make a judgment about the credibility of a site in as few as 50 milliseconds. Even more alarming is that 20% of website visitors who are unimpressed and that click away from a website will likely never return.

Without question, the best way to spike the interest of website visitors is to design with current web design trends always in mind. Impressing your audience within the first five to 10 seconds of their initial visit is critical to producing high conversion rates and building brand awareness. In light of these important facts and the ubiquitous nature of the Internet, we have uncovered and compiled some of the most cutting-edge emerging web design trends of 2017. Take advantage of these timely up-and-coming fresh design elements as a way to greatly enhance your online presence. Here are 10 of the newest 2017 web design trends that will get your website noticed.

2017 Web Design Trends

1. Responsive Design for a Wider Audience

Few discussions about web design trends would be complete without talking about responsive design. While previous years have seen a growth in responsive design becoming the new standard, 2017 will see this trend only accelerate even further. In short, responsive website design guarantees the largest possible viewing audience. A mobile responsive website design is intended to look the same regardless of the type of device being used to view the site. Businesses with older websites that are non-responsive are leaving the door wide open to the competition.

2. Go Bold with your Typeface Choices

The old days of dull and uninteresting typefaces are long gone. In fact, the last few years have seen new and dynamic kinds typefaces steadily emerging. Going forward, 2017 is no different in that new bold, big and stylish typefaces are quickly entering the mainstream of web design. Unique and attention grabbing typefaces are perfectly suited to be used as a text overlay on the large bold hero-style images that are so popular today. Most notably, serif typefaces will likely be the text design tool of choice for enhanced readability in the new year.

3. Geometry Creates Interest

Perhaps nothing draws attention more than clever and unique geometric shapes and designs. From triangles to squares and circles as well as custom shapes, geometric patterns and accents allow for better readability and easier navigation. When designing using geometric elements it is best to strive for simplicity. Custom geometric shapes can be used as containers for images or icons as well as text. Well-planned geometric patterns may also be used to create a background image or even employed to craft an innovative and eye-catching footer.

4. Expand Your Reach with Numbers

One trend that has evolved in the last few years and that will likely continue to evolve in 2017 is the creative use of numbers. By using numbers that are large and bold it is possible to develop a sense of precision and accuracy. For example, stating that a company has 15 national partners is far more effective than simply saying that the company works with several partners across the country. Numbers effectively project a sense of confidence in a simplistic and easy to understand way. Expect this trend to continue and mature in the coming years.

5. Genuine Images for a More Authentic Experience

It is quickly becoming more apparent that cutting-edge state-of-the-art websites must fully capitalize on unique, bold and authentic one-of-a-kind images. The best ways to avoid an outdated looking website is to use dynamic authentic images that convey a message or tell a story. Images used on websites designed in 2017 must be genuine, relevant and subject matter driven. When designing award-winning websites in 2017, opt for realistic images that showcase real people in real world activities having real world experiences. Images sourced from drones or selfies as well as other custom creations will win the day.

6. Parallax Scrolling Supports Better Functionality

While not new, parallax scrolling is something that is clearly taking on new meaning in 2017. It is quickly becoming a desirable and popular website function that simply cannot be ignored. In essence, parallax scrolling makes it possible to move between different levels of a website at varying speeds. This results in a highly unique visual effect that promotes the continued scrolling of a website visitor. The net effect is that visitors stay on-site longer thereby potentially improving conversions. This particular functionality is best incorporated into websites that wish to gain the most from interactive storytelling.

7. Darker Backgrounds are Back in Vogue

While the last few years have seen a trend towards light and stylish types of backgrounds, 2017 is shaping up to be a year where dark backgrounds are the new standard. Designers should take note that using this kind of background requires leveraging the right accent colors in order to provide good contrast. Colors that “pop” will draw attention and engage visitors encouraging them to remain on-site longer. With darker backgrounds, it is possible to use contrast to your advantage as a way to portray a website as current and relevant.

8. Promote Simplicity with Fewer Menu Options

Last year there was a steady move towards redesigning websites with simplified primary navigation elements. In 2017 we expect to see this trend intensify and mature. Older site designs typically featured 5 to 7 menu options. Going forward into 2017, web designers stand to gain the most from building sites with only three or four menu options at the most. The reason for this approach is that when visitors have fewer choices they find it easier to make decisions. As a bonus, fewer menu options makes it far easier to navigate a website.

9. Website Motion Adds Meaning

A clear and undisputed trend in web design moving into 2017 is that of having dynamic motion elements inherent within websites. As mobile applications and traditional websites continue to evolve, motion focused websites will only further grow in popularity. As a note, motion elements must be purposeful and meaningful to have real value. For example, well-placed “motion” should focus attention and help to maintain continuity. Motion elements can include everything from text that flexes to text that slides into view. In addition, sliding images can be used for dynamic menu options while a multitude of other effects will likely be released as the year progresses.

10. Virtual Reality for a Futuristic Look

While still in its infancy in many ways, virtual reality seems to be what everyone is talking about today. Innovative, cutting-edge and forward-looking web designers will seize the opportunity in 2017 and years ahead to design for futuristic VR experiences. As a note, many designers are even creating VR experiences on websites using advanced software. It is now possible to create movies or 360-degree video experiences without external VR equipment. These designs are intended to capture the attention of visitors in ways that would otherwise not be possible. Virtual reality is an experience like no other simply because it makes the user feel like they are immersed within or part of the experience.

Conclusion

Even though the Internet is in a constant state of flux, 2017 is shaping up to be an exciting year in web design. As with previous years, web design trends in 2017 must seize the opportunity to always meet the user’s needs. Designers must remember that form follows function and that keeping visitors on site and engaged is always the main objective. With today’s business climate as competitive as ever, gaining the online advantage as a way to increase revenue and build brand loyalty is more important than it has ever been in the past.

Web designers wishing to give their clients the greatest advantage in the marketplace must stay ahead of the latest trends in stylish, unique and captivating web design techniques. Whether incorporating more simplistic menu options or parallax scrolling or even virtual reality, one thing is certain and that is that modern up-to-date trendy websites deliver better performance for businesses. This is especially true of companies that continually have an eye on profit margins. Use these emerging web design trends of 2017 to effectively outperform the competition and to deliver in terms of web design excellence that is second-to-none for your valued clients.