stupidcat

As we near the close of 2010 and with 2011 right around the corner, we wanted to provide some of our thoughts as to what we see as the most likely upcoming trends in web design.

Web Design Trends for 2011

1. The Social Web Site

We see a lot of focus this next year on making company (small and large businesses) web sites more social. In fact, we believe that the more successful site designs will be those that focus on the social aspects such as integration with your social media accounts and having your blog a part of your home page. Being social has been with us for a while (cell phones, texting, etc) but it something the web has just discovered (as odd as it sounds). Facebook and Twitter’s growth shows us just how much the web community has been wanting this. It is time for businesses to incorporate this trend into their web sites.

Facebook tabs and Twitter background design integrations will be more important than ever.

Even the Oreo cookie brand says they can see a day where they will only have a social media presence and a corporate or brand web site may no longer be relevant or necessary.

Oreo Cookie Brand Social Media Strategy

2. Typography

Typography will remain an important design element going into 2011. We need to see a more focused approach on this in the new year as it has so much potential. It can truly turn a good site into a masterpiece. The importance on typography will continue to grow and designers that spend the time to perfect it will certainly see a dramatic pay-off in terms of their own satisfaction and that of their customers.

3. HTML5 and CSS3

HTML5 will take a major step forward with the release of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 9 and mobile device web application developers looking for common ground to develop from in order to replace Adobe Flash. Although Android supports Flash, developers will want to code once and in effort to support all devices they will opt for HTML5. With recent Windows Phone Sales figures being released (and they aren’t good, folks) the final nail in the coffin of the proprietary Silverlight technology is inevitable and HTML5 will be an all around good choice.

4. Minimalist Designs

The minimalist design and color approach will continue to be the primary design approach in 2011.  Single and limited color designs complemented with white text and a mix of grays and blacks for contrast are a minimalist designers palette. In minimalist design, color is used to draw the visitors eye to the area of focus (whether it be an ad or latest content topic, etc). Minimalist designs are generally very clean and have great use of whitespace.

The clean and crisp look of the minimalist design will carry well into 2011.

5. Large Headers

These have become very popular this year and will continue a strong run into 2011. These large toppers are above the fold of the page and provide a great visual on the latest content or your logo along with a visual of what your content is all about. The large headers can go a long way to keep visitors on your page when used effectively.

Summary

2011 is going to be a big year for HTML5 and CSS3. We believe there will be a lot of designs utilizing the top 5 trends, while leveraging the most they can from HTML5 and CSS3. There is going to be a lot of creativity in the new year experimenting with these new technologies. Of course, mobile design is something that continues to grow in importance and we will watch it closely throughout the year.

Throughout 2011, Stupidcat will provide tutorials and informational articles on each of these trends, and more, to keep designers informed and educated.

Have thoughts on these or other trends coming up in 2011? Comment and let us know!