Web design is the area that can’t just stay the same so it keeps on developing by leaps and bounds. Each year offers us new trends and new ideas which replace the old directions in which web designers work showing them the right way to master their skills. So is in 2012 – we can already highlight the main trends that prevail and ask for special attention both from developers and users. And today we are going to focus particularly on contemporary streams called-for in web design of 2012.
Our overview is compiled of a 7-points list enumerating and explaining every trend. Of course, it is not the ultimate list – it is the one that, in our opinion, contains the most widely-used techniques. Check it out below and make sure that you are following the right direction creating modern-day designs!
Web Design Roundup
1. Responsive design
We’ve already touched upon this trend talking about WordPress themes but we’d like to remind you about this aspect once again. Yes, responsive design is onwards and upwards these days and it is quite a natural thing considering popularity of various portable devices use. iPhones, iPads, laptops and smart-phones are being used by a huge amount of people all over the world so it is very important to make every website load and look properly in spite of screen resolution that is applied.
For example, take a look at these templates:
Alyeska Responsive WordPress Theme
Reaction WP : Responsive, Rugged, Bold
Swagger Responsive WordPress Theme
2. Big-size headers
Nowadays designers tend to create oversized headers and logos as the main aim is to grab the attention of the viewer from the first sight. This is why you can often see headers which are of entire screen size and convey the main message which just strikes the eye. It allows every visitor to get the most important information at one place without the necessity to click through, and that plays a big part since a lot of users are afraid or just lazy to do the surplus clicks to learn something more that they get at the first page.
Take a look at these templates:
Templatemonster template #1
Templatemonster template #2
Templatemonster template #3
3. One-page websites
That’s one of the most popular trends in web design of 2012. One-page layouts imply the great chance to quickly familiarize the viewer with your company info, services, benefits and social media activity at one place. Creating a one-page website designers save effort and the visitors save their time on browsing since with one-page layout it gets much easier. The only thing to remember – one-page sites require a special sense of style in order to look cool and work smoothly.
For example, take a look at these sites:
peter-pearson.com
twitspark.com
jlern.com
4. Intuitive dynamism
Flash is still on the arena in 2012 but this time it is performed in a more relaxing and intuitive manner. Contemporary web designers are now well aware of the fact that users who open the Flash-driven page are tech savvy enough to see the drawbacks and to get irritated if something is not working in a smooth way it must. That is why dynamic pages became more pleasant-to-use and are being of popularity nowadays.
5. Typography
This is quite a difficult trend to cope with and that is why it takes the place among the most popular web design streams. The issue is quite arguing – on the one hand, in order to implement the right and really cool Typography a designer must be talented and skilled enough having a good sense of style; on the other hand, websites with stunning Typography look second-to-none and are totally winning.
Take a look at these sites:
gamesweplayed.sg
goslingo.com
flashgamingsummit.com
6. Retro style
Retro and vintage styles have been always honored and appreciated by the designers, and in 2012 this trend is the one that remains. Retro websites are really good-looking and stylish ones if designed professionally. However, we can also call it a kind of “always winning” technique, so maybe that’s why retro design is in demand.
For example, take a look at these sites:
radio.nymoon.com
jeffsarmiento.com
cottonseedoiltour.com
7. Minimalism
You remember old-school minimalistic design? In 2012 you may forget about it since minimalism has been taken to the higher level. Now it is not only monochrome and simple, but it features unusual color schemes with multi-colored solutions and represents still minimal but much more creative ideas within the layout.
Take a look at these sites:
artypapers.com
somme.no
via.welovenoise.com
I hope you agree with this web design trends list and won’t deny that all these points have their value in 2012. But feel free to share your own opinion and express the point of view that is on your mind!
I do agree with this trend list, it’s true trends of 2012 🙂 keep doing a good job!
I would like to say that this blog really convinced me, you give me best information! Thanks, very good post.