Web design and development is an ever-expanding realm. Designers and developers around the globe are always ready to bring in more ideas and techniques to contribute to its expansion.
The design savvies deem those techniques as digital inventions, while we, the marketers, call them trends! Why…? Not only does it sound cool but also helps us pitch well to our clients, or bosses for that matter.
Regardless, new trends tend to pop up every year. Some are dynamic enough – apart from being visually appealing –to stand the test of times, while some are just… useless to even try. So, just like 2014 was dominated by responsive websites and Flat web design trends, 2015 has also some amazing trends that are admired and recommended by top experts in the world.
Here’s a roundup of some top of the list trends that are well-received by the masses.
All Hail the Material Design
Flat designs are old story now, though some still prefer them for their ultra minimalism. Material designs, invented by the great Google, have the stage now due to the dynamic outlook, enhanced interactivity and improved engagement. Unlike flat designs, Material designs offer a 3-dimensional look using an additional z-axis, animations, transitions and even shadows. Google has already rolled it out on its apps, and even mobile OS, lollipop.
Add Depth with Parallax Scrolling
Parallax scrolling isn’t new a trend but it certainly is popular which is why it has successfully made to 2015, and hopefully beyond. Parallax uses the combine power of long-scrolling, HTML5 and CSS3 powerful transitions and animations to add depth and interactivity to our web pages. Parallax designs are ideal for websites that use storytelling as their key engagement. The exquisite example would be the movie Pie’s official website.
Typography Dominates It All
Some designers took minimalism a step further by taking the clutter out of the web pages while keeping the amazing aesthetics using nothing but beautiful typographies. This trend is ideal for use when you want to keep things simple yet straightforward.
HD Custom Photography is All the Rage
Stock images are out of the picture now, as custom photography has taken its place. Why show fake faces when you can get real portraits of your employees. Custom photographies are being used to give a personal touch to the brand and show clients or customers that there are real faces behind it.
Show Menu Only When Needed
Visitors are already well-acquainted with hidden menus as they are used to it due to the constant use of this trend on mobile apps. That’s the reason that when they make the transition from apps to websites, they get the same, familiar experience. The technique not only allows more space on the web page but also increases more focus of the visitors on more important elements like call-to-action, etc.
Tell Story with Large Background Videos
What can be more fitting to tell your story than large screen, high-quality videos? This trend is hugely well-received by companies, especially agencies, who believe that storytelling is the only way that leads directly to users’ heart…and it certainly is!