Trend Forecast 2022 – Part 1: Web Design

When predicting trends in web design for 2022, one could summarize the message as “anything goes”. It’s a diverse landscape where you can do almost anything. For instance, two contrasting trends like minimalism and brutalism have found their place on the same list. That sets the tone for 2022. Let’s go through some selected features that have emerged and caught our interest!

Less is more

Minimalism remains on the list, although it no longer dominates the field. However, a new addition to the minimalist trend is the rise of “single-page websites,” which consist of only one page with no subpages or tabs. By conveying your service/message with as little expression as possible, you achieve a unique effect. Of course, it doesn’t suit everyone, but keep in mind that you can scale down.

One page that isn’t necessarily minimalist but incorporates all information on a single page is HAWRAF. It’s a prime example of a truly creative and innovative site that utilizes horizontal scrolling, which we’ll mention below.

Extra everything!

And, of course, as a counter-reaction to minimalism, there’s a trend of “the more, the better.” This includes features like exploding content, custom loading animations, mouse cursor effects, 3D animations, and other ways to interact with the website.

How many plants is a great example of how you can play around with web design and showcase many of the trends we’re discussing here!

Have fun with color!

There has been a subdued tone in both web design and design in general, but now you can fully embrace color! Play with contrasts, illustrations, and gradients, both in text and illustrations. Visible edges and “linework” appear more frequently, so take the opportunity to add a pop of color subtly through directing lines and boundaries.

Brutalism

Brutalism has been prominent for a while and continues to hold its ground. However, now more people are incorporating “brutal” elements without fully embracing a “pure brutalism” style. One of the most prominent features of brutalism is the use of large, bold letters in strong contrast, which can even serve as a “hero image” or cover image.

Twenty Nine combines color, form, and brutalism in a standout manner. It’s an example of how you can play with layout, images, and custom elements like the mouse cursor.

Everyone is included!

Inclusivity is not just a trend; it’s here to stay. Digital media has the opportunity to foster a sense of community, and when we talk about inclusive design, we mean that everyone should be included, regardless of gender, orientation, disability, etc. It becomes both more visually appealing and innovative when we think in those terms. Everyone should be able to see, hear, and be represented!

Translifeline works to support transgender individuals, and their goals and purpose are reflected in the design of their website, where representation shines through everything.

Scrolling: More than just a function

Scrolling is a big deal this year. Here, too, there is ample room for being incredibly creative with the experience of your website. Rolling text elements, horizontal scrolling, and what’s called “scrollytelling” (telling a story through transitions between different elements as you scroll) are all possibilities. Another example is interactive scrolling, where scrolling takes you through a virtual room. When scrolling is no longer limited to up and down, you can really think outside the box. How can this contribute to conveying your company’s message?

Flowers for society is an excellent example of innovative scrollytelling and interactive scrolling.

More than just characters

Many trends revolve around a playful approach to typography. It’s not just about the freedom to choose fonts but also about color, interaction, and motion. Rolling text, “writing” text, exploding text… The possibilities are endless! And what about readability…

Peppasauce is a perfect example of how much you can do with “just” text.

What about images?

Images are also stepping outside the box on our websites in the future. Many websites are emerging without any images at all, opting instead for a more advanced visual language, as mentioned earlier. However, there are also multiple-layered images, collages, and extraordinary, fantastical motifs.

 

Regardless of trends, not everything is suitable for everyone. You must understand your target audience and know what suits your brand and what will attract potential customers. Scrollytelling might be suitable for those who have a lot to share about their company’s history and goals, while a simple page might work for those who primarily want to present their contact information in a sleek manner. If you want to shock and entertain, a colorful brutalism style might be the way to go for your target audience to discover you. The most important thing is always that your message gets across. But hey, don’t forget to have some fun along the way!

Are you considering giving your website a makeover this year? We at Panzify are happy to help you refresh your old site or create a brand new one. Learn more here!