Web design is an ever-evolving field, with trends and technologies constantly changing.

As we step into 2015, it’s essential for web designers and developers to stay up-to-date with the latest design trends to create websites that are not only visually appealing but also user-friendly and functional.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 20 web design trends that you can expect to see in 2015.

20 Web Design Trends You Can Expect to See in 2015

 

  1. Responsive Web Design

Responsive web design has been a growing trend in recent years, and it’s not going away in 2015. With the increasing use of mobile devices, websites need to adapt to various screen sizes and resolutions. Responsive design ensures that your site looks and functions well on smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers, providing a seamless user experience across all devices.

  1. Flat Design

Flat design is a minimalistic approach to web design that focuses on simplicity and functionality. It’s characterized by clean lines, vibrant colors, and the absence of shadows and gradients. In 2015, we can expect to see more websites adopting this design style to create a modern and user-friendly look.

  1. Material Design

Introduced by Google, Material Design is a design language that combines elements of flat design with tactile, real-world inspirations. It incorporates responsive animations and interactions, providing a more intuitive user experience. Material Design is expected to gain even more popularity in 2015.

  1. Large Hero Images

Large hero images or full-screen background images are an effective way to grab users’ attention and create a visually appealing first impression. In 2015, we’ll see more websites incorporating large, high-quality images as a focal point of their design.

  1. Scrolling Animations

Scrolling animations add an interactive and engaging element to websites. In 2015, web designers are likely to use scrolling animations to tell a story, guide users through content, and create a memorable experience.

  1. Minimalistic Navigation

Simplicity is key in web design, and this extends to navigation menus. In 2015, we can expect to see minimalistic navigation menus with fewer options, making it easier for users to find what they’re looking for quickly.

  1. Card-Based Layouts

Card-based layouts have gained popularity thanks to platforms like Pinterest and Twitter. They provide a visually appealing way to organize content into bite-sized, easily digestible chunks. In 2015, card-based layouts will continue to be a favorite for presenting information and images.

  1. Typography

Typography has always been crucial in web design, but in 2015, we’ll see even more creative use of fonts and typefaces. Bold typography, custom fonts, and large, eye-catching headlines will be used to make a statement and enhance the overall design.

  1. Parallax Scrolling

Parallax scrolling creates a 3D effect by moving different layers of content at different speeds as users scroll down the page. It adds depth and interactivity to websites, making them more engaging. Expect to see more parallax scrolling in 2015.

  1. Long-Scrolling Websites

Long-scrolling websites are becoming increasingly popular, especially for storytelling and single-page websites. In 2015, we’ll see more websites with continuous scrolling, allowing users to explore content effortlessly.

  1. Microinteractions

Microinteractions are subtle animations or feedback loops that enhance user experience. They can be as simple as a button changing color when hovered over or a like button animating when clicked. These small details will continue to be a significant trend in web design in 2015.

  1. Video Backgrounds

Video backgrounds are a visually captivating way to engage visitors. Whether it’s a looping video showcasing a product or conveying a brand’s message, expect to see more websites incorporating video backgrounds in 2015.

  1. Ghost Buttons

Ghost buttons are transparent, often outlined buttons that blend seamlessly with the background until hovered over. They provide a clean and elegant way to encourage user interaction without overwhelming the design. In 2015, ghost buttons will continue to be a popular choice.

  1. Minimalist Forms

Forms are a crucial element of many websites, and in 2015, we’ll see a trend towards minimalist form designs. Simplified form fields and subtle animations can improve the user experience and encourage more form submissions.

  1. Vibrant Colors

Bold and vibrant color schemes are making a comeback in web design. These eye-catching colors can create a strong visual impact and help websites stand out. Expect to see more websites embracing vibrant color palettes in 2015.

  1. Custom Illustrations

Custom illustrations add a unique and personal touch to a website’s design. They can help convey a brand’s personality and message in a visually engaging way. Custom illustrations will be a trend to watch in 2015.

  1. Mobile-First Design

With mobile internet usage surpassing desktop usage, designing for mobile devices first has become essential. In 2015, more designers will prioritize mobile-first design to ensure that websites are optimized for smaller screens and touch interactions.

  1. Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool in web design. It helps engage users and create a connection between them and the brand. In 2015, we’ll see more websites using storytelling techniques to communicate their message and values effectively.

  1. Social Integration

Social media is an integral part of online life, and in 2015, websites will continue to integrate social sharing buttons, feeds, and user-generated content to foster community engagement and sharing.

  1. Accessibility

Web accessibility is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. In 2015, there will be an increasing focus on creating websites that are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Designers will implement accessible features like alt text, keyboard navigation, and proper semantic markup.

Conclusion

Web design in 2015 promises to be an exciting and dynamic field, with designers embracing new trends while building upon established principles. From responsive and flat design to storytelling and accessibility, the web design landscape will continue to evolve to meet the changing needs and preferences of users. Staying up-to-date with these trends and incorporating them into your web design projects will help you create websites that are not only visually stunning but also functional and user-friendly in the year ahead.

Mark Walker-Ford

Director, Red Website Design