Web design trends seem to grow and develop off those from previous years. However, 2022 is anticipated to break the mold with futuristic concepts that draw inspiration from retro and nostalgic elements. While it can be difficult to predict exactly which trends will dominate the web design field throughout the year, there is evidence to show specific trends are gaining traction among Web Designers. A research study conducted by Behaviour and Information Technology found that it only takes users 0.05 seconds to form a lasting opinion about a website, highlighting just how important it is for web designers to ensure their websites are well received and up-to-date with the latest trends.
This article will cover some of the anticipated trends for the year, so you can get a head start on mastering these areas. It’s important to note that even with new trends influencing the field each year, it doesn’t mean that trends from previous years are immediately outdated. Since most trends seem to build off those from the past or continue to resurface every few years, there’s no need to abandon a specific practice if it compliments your unique design style.
Hand-Drawn Illustrations
One web design trend that is expected to thrive in 2022 is the use of hand-drawn illustrations for websites and other design content. These elements give a sense of authenticity to a web page and provide a memorable face for your business or client. You can expect to see hand-drawn illustrations on all design content types, ranging from websites to branding material. Using these one-of-a-kind illustrations allows web designers to connect with a broad target audience and assist with storytelling to users.
Dark Mode
Dark mode is a trend that has grown in popularity over the last few years and continues to reach additional areas of the design community. The black or gray color palette allows white text to stand out while also helping with issues like eye strain or legibility issues. A study from Stanford shows that a shocking 75% of people base the credibility of a business on how their website looks. This means that web content that is current and utilizes the latest trends may be more well-received than a site that is out of date. In addition to improving legibility and aesthetic appeal, using dark mode can also help reduce power usage, glare, and levels of blue light.
Horizontal Scrolling
While horizontal scrolling was not always well received in the web design community, this unique trend started gaining popularity throughout 2021. Looking at the traditional layout and functionality of web pages, horizontal scrolling breaks all of the set norms and expectations. In a sense, horizontal scrolling functions like a virtual photo gallery and catches the user’s attention as soon as they interact with the element. It’s important to note that horizontal scrolling should not contain any vital text for the user to read and should not be the only way to navigate through a web page. It’s more efficient to have horizontal scrolling on certain page areas while still providing additional ways to scroll through the website.
Neumorphism
One of the newer web design trends is neumorphism, which pulls influence from flat designs and skeuomorphism. While these two design styles have many similarities, neumorphism uses monochromatic color schemes, low contrast, and shadows to create a soft visual appearance that still feels authentic. Skeuomorphism uses design tools to create elements that resemble real-life objects. There are some drawbacks to experimenting with the neumorphism trend, be sure to keep legibility and accessibility in mind.
Simple & Minimalist Designs
Minimalist and straightforward trends seem to remain popular year after year in many different areas of creative design. Whether it be with web, graphic, or fashion design, simplistic designs remain a consistent favorite among consumers and Web Designers. A minimalist design is not only visually appealing but can also help with the overall user experience. It’s common for Web Designers to feel they need to add additional elements to impress users when a streamlined experience is often more enjoyable.
Interactive Graphics
Another trend expected to be prominent in the web design field through 2022 is using interactive graphics to keep users engaged. Responsive elements on a web page can create a unique and memorable experience for users and keep them on the page longer than with standard graphics. Web Designers should try experimenting with interactive graphics this year to help promote engagement and boost creativity.
Retro & Nostalgic Elements
One of the biggest web design trends for 2022 is retro and nostalgic elements, with specific influence from the 90s. Fashion design has shown major inspiration from the 90s over the last year, showing how retro and nostalgic elements are slowly incorporated into every aspect of creative design careers. In addition to the 90s, it’s also anticipated that retro elements from the 70s and 80s will be prominent in some web designs. This can include psychedelic colors, unique fonts, and grunge inspiration.
Be Sure to Stay Current With Trends
Whether you are new to working as a Web Designer or have spent some time in the field, staying current with trends and relevant technology is crucial to overall success. Those who are new to web design and are considering a career change should consider signing up for the web design certificate from Noble Desktop. The immersive course provides all the training needed to become a well-rounded web designer with a portfolio full of hands-on experience. The curriculum for these classes covers topics ranging from coding language like HTML to software like Adobe XD.
If you currently work in web design and want to refresh your skills, a live online web design bootcamp teaches students an immersive curriculum from the comfort of their own homes. Bootcamp classes are also a great choice for anyone who wants to make a career change into web design and have the opportunity to build a portfolio of work. To see what classes are available for you, start by searching for live online web design bootcamps in your area.