Leading Web Trends in 2017

If you’ve been wondering exactly what kinds of web design trends will rule the roost in 2017, think of a more refined version of last year. Much of what came to pass in 2016 is set to continue over the next 12 months, though in a somewhat more fluid and elegant manner. Taking advantage of the most current trends is one thing, but if you want to remain ahead of the game long-term, you need to think about what’s coming next. Here’s a quick overview of five key design trends set to lead the charge in 2017:

1. Minimalist Designs

Once again this year, minimalist design looks set to be a very big deal indeed.  This basically refers to a process of website development that focuses purely on user input. Any content and elements that are not 100% necessary are removed, in order to streamline the user experience and improve overall website performance. Stripping things back to their most basic fundamentals can result in a uniquely elegant website – you only need to look at Apple for an illustration of this. Flashy visuals and content just for the sake of filling space are likely to be seen less and less over the coming months.

2. Designing for Experience

Enhancing and refining the overall user experience is also becoming a priority for the vast majority of website designers. Specifically, interactive websites with dynamic content are becoming more and more popular, as advances in consumer technology support increase. Of course, this entirely contradicts the above trend with regard to minimalist designs, though is nonetheless an effective and popular alternative approach. Cinemagraphs and Parallax designs in particular are beginning to make waves.

3. Video Content

With the average computer and mobile device alike now being able to stream high quality video content in an instant, you can expect to see a lot more of it on the primary landing pages of websites. The power and influence of effective video content is increasing all the time, so it simply makes sense for businesses to capitalise on its power and potential. Which is exactly what is already happening and is only going to step up going forwards.

4. Mobile-Focused Layouts

Not only are web designers increasingly focusing on mobile users first, but many are also working to bring the mobile experience to desktop. Specifically, many desktop websites are being created in a manner that’s very similar in overall context to that of the mobile equivalent. It is a case of creating a sense of familiarity across all platforms, rather than having desktop and mobile websites that are fundamentally different.

5. Full-Size Photographs

Last up, the ability to both compress high-quality imagery and stream data at such incredible speeds has led to a significant rise in the use of full-size photographs for the primary backdrop of the website. Approached strategically, it can be an excellent way of creating an immediate visual impact and engaging new visitors. Coupled with even the most limited yet relevant typography, it can also be a surprisingly easy way of creating highly effective landing pages.