The internet is, at its core, a place of evolution. As technology advances and user preferences change, websites also change in order to meet current trends. Staying on top of these trends is vital for any website that wants to stand out. With that in mind, here are the top ten website design trends to keep an eye on in 2024.
1. AI Content
AI-generated content made a splash when it hit the Internet scene. By training an AI program with pre-existing content, videos, or images, the program can create original content according to user prompts. For example, if a user requests a recipe for brownies, the program will go through any brownie recipes it has and create a recipe based on what it believes would most closely match the prompt.
Why is it Popular Now?
AI allows users to generate images, written content, voiceovers, and even videos at previously unheard-of speeds. Regular content creation is a cornerstone of a successful online presence, and this speed is extremely useful in maintaining regular updates.
Will This Trend Continue?
While current AI technology is far from perfect, it’s improving every day. This improvement means AI will only grow more popular as time goes on, leading to the near-automation of the content creation process.
2. Improved Website Security
The evolution of the Internet has also led to an evolution in hacking. Phishing scams and cyber attacks are on the rise, which puts sensitive user information such as addresses, passwords, and social security numbers in jeopardy. As a result, newer websites have improved security measures, such as input data validation, encryption, two-factor authentication, and security audits.
Why is it Popular Now?
Very few people look at a website, especially one that handles less information, and decide they want it to be less secure. Users want to know their personal information is protected and that websites won’t leave them vulnerable to hacking.
Will This Trend Continue?
As more and more processes become automated and hacking techniques become more advanced, improved website security will be crucial to protect user information.
3. Motion Effects on the Homepage
Motion effects can include kinetic typography, animated logos and illustrations, and even sparkle trails on your cursor!
Why is it Popular Now?
Motion effects add visual intrigue at a low cost, creating a more fun and interesting user experience.
Will This Trend Continue?
As more websites enter the online space, it will take more and more work to stand out from the crowd. Motion graphics are a quick and relatively easy way to stand out more to a user.
4. Video Backgrounds
Instead of a picture or introductory paragraph, many websites are now using video backgrounds on their home pages. These videos range from a short tour of the business to a full information breakdown of the business itself.
Why is it Popular Now?
Video backgrounds quickly draw a user’s eye and allow them to grasp the website’s message without having to read through the homepage. A well-shot video is visually appealing and entices viewers to learn more about your business.
Will This Trend Continue?
With modern online content, quick and easily consumed media is king. Video backgrounds meet this demand by giving users relevant information about the webpage in a visually appealing format.
5. Voice User Interface
Why type in a question when you can ask it out loud? Voice user interface (VUI) uses smart technology to respond to spoken commands or questions instead of requiring users to write them out. Home devices such as Alexa have already popularized this technology, but it’s steadily working its way into web design as well.
Why is it Popular Now?
VUIs allow users to search for information, play songs, dictate messages, and more while leaving their hands free for other tasks. Websites that utilize these interfaces allow for more convenient searching, which draws users.
Will This Trend Continue?
As VUIs develop and are able to keep up with unique accents and speech patterns, it will be even easier for users to make use of them on websites where they appear.
6. UX-Focused Design
No matter how interesting your website’s content is or how aesthetically pleasing it looks, none of it will matter if your users are unable to navigate it. A user experience (UX) focused design prioritizes engaging, easy-to-navigate content that quickly conveys necessary information.
Why is it Popular Now?
How often do you visit a website after struggling to navigate it the first time? Users appreciate intuitive, simple design, especially if they’re navigating through important information. They also appreciate finding the information they’re looking for quickly, without having to wade through filler paragraphs.
Will This Trend Continue?
At the end of the day, websites will always exist for their users. As long as people prefer websites that are suited to them, UX-focused design will only continue to grow in popularity.
7. Y2K Effects
Y2K-era web elements such as bright colors, matrix-style text, and retro illustrations have become increasingly popular. While obviously not suited to more serious websites, this style is excellent for appearing bold and unafraid to branch out stylistically.
Why is it Popular Now?
The 2020s have seen an increase in early 2000s and 90s nostalgia. Seeing website designs based on a bygone internet era tends to entice more nostalgic viewers.
Will This Trend Continue?
While people aren’t nostalgic for every time, nobody is immune to nostalgia altogether. As time marches on and the Y2K era becomes even more distant, more people may look back on the aesthetic fondly.
8. Visible Borders
While a graphic or text box can be placed directly on a page, some websites are now adding distinct borders around them in order to set them apart.
Why is it Popular Now?
Adding visible borders around photos, text boxes, and page sections helps guide your user’s eye without being too obtrusive. It’s also a good way to add visual interest to your page while still maintaining a professional, minimalist look.
Will This Trend Continue?
As websites become more UX-focused, designs that help users easily navigate pages will become more and more popular. As one of the simpler, more easily integrated visual enhancements, visible borders have greater staying power.
9. VR and AR Implementation
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology used to be a futuristic fantasy—now, they’re not only real but being implemented into online spaces. AR technology allows users to see the real world with visual overlays, while VR technology immerses them in a fully digital world.
Why is it Popular Now?
VR and AR technology are still relatively new, but they’ve already proven wildly popular, particularly in video games. Implementing them into websites can allow users to completely immerse themselves in their experience. For example, Google Earth’s VR game allows you to view any spot available on Google Earth in a first-person perspective.
Will This Trend Continue?
As VR and AR technology improve and become more accessible, web developers will naturally begin to include them in websites in order to create a more immersive experience.
10. Claymorphism
Claymorphism refers to the use of inflated, “fluffy” shapes and art in user interfaces. Claymorphic graphics often utilize a dark outer shadow to create the impression that they’re floating above the background.
Why is it Popular Now?
Claymorphism has a charming, soft appearance that doesn’t come across as obtrusive (as long as it’s used in moderation—too much can come across as childish). The floating effect also helps to make charts and buttons stand out from the background, which improves UX.
Will This Trend Continue?
As 3D illustrations become more widespread, especially in VR projects, claymorphism can expect to see an increase in popularity.
Stay Trending with Epic Web Studios
Whether you’re developing a new website or revamping an old one, it’s important to keep up with current digital trends. If you’re unsure where to start, get in touch with Epic Web Studios. Our experience in the industry makes us fully qualified to revitalize your website, whether it be new content, a new interface, or just a new style. Don’t let new websites leave you in the dust—contact Epic Web Studios today!