Top 10 web design trends to look out for in 2022

Every year, since the dawn of the internet, we’ve seen new and exciting trends develop in the world of website design. 2022 is set to be no different, with some really interesting ideas emerging from the woodwork already.

Whether it’s the website development itself, a few copywriting quirks, or some clever design tricks – we’re excited to see what the industry comes up with over the next few months.

Here are our top 10 web design trends we’re looking out for this year.

1. One-page websites

More and more companies are choosing to slim down their websites and simplify the experience lately, which is resulting in a rise in one-page website designs.

Instead of opting for a traditional navigation menu, which sends you off in whichever direction you’re headed, some websites are tapping into our scrolling-tendencies and using it to their advantage.

One-page websites might not work for you if you’re an eCommerce site, or you have a lot of content to share, but if your website is more of one-stop-shop with a little bit of information and a “contact us” form, it could definitely be worth exploring.

2. Inclusive content

We’ve spoken a lot about online accessibility recently, and it looks like more and more people are taking notice and making inclusivity a big part of their website strategy in 2022.

Using more inclusive language in your copy, providing alt text for all your images, and using captions and audio descriptions on your videos are all great places to start to make your website a more inclusive space for all users.

Interested in learning more? Check out these 9 ways to make your website more accessible.

3. Nostalgia

The rise of retro rebrands, 90s style content and a general throwback to the early days of the internet are going nowhere. Nostalgic web design is still on the rise, and during these “unprecedented times”, it’s easy to see why.

With designers creating an analogue feel to their websites with vintage image filters, retro fonts, and pastel colour palettes – we can all enjoy a sense of calm and comfort as we’re reminded of the good old days. You know, before COVID.

4. Virtual revolution

With the growing demand for augmented reality, virtual reality and artificial intelligence technology, we’re seeing more companies finding interesting and unique ways to incorporate it into their websites.

Virtual events, 3D and 360 tours, and “try before you buy” services are all becoming commonplace on websites is 2022, as we all embrace the virtual revolution. For more insights and ideas, take a look at our latest blog post.

5. Fun interactive assets

While some companies are actively embracing our addiction to scrolling by utilising one-page websites – others are coming up with new, interactive ways to engage their audience and get them clicking and tapping all over the place.

Whether it’s an interactive game, a short quiz, or some fun graphics that follow your mouse around the screen. Many of us are easily pleased by the odd gimmick here and there, and these assets could help to improve your website engagement and even your search engine optimisation – just as make sure you don’t overdo it.

6. Clean and mindful design

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we’re also seeing a lot of websites cleaning up their game, and tuning into their minimalist side.

We’re constantly bombarded with adverts, pop-ups, sign-ups, loud videos and other bits of in-your-face content throughout the day. Many companies are becoming aware of this, and taking a more mindful approach to their website design – providing us with somewhere calming and relaxing to spend the next few minutes on the internet.

Utilising muted colour palettes, calming audio and natural imagery makes their website an enjoyable experience that we might be more likely to return to time and time again.

7. Fewer images, more illustrations

Big hero photos had their day in web design a couple of years ago – and we’re sure we’ll see them again some time – but in 2022, it’s all about the illustrations.

Fun graphic elements, quirky animations, and beautifully illustrated prints and patterns are all the rage these days. Combined with big typography and minimal distractions, you’ve got yourself a trendy website.

8. Prioritising page-speed

Google has spoken, and fast loading speed times are more important than ever. We all know they love to change the rules every now and again when it comes to search engine optimisation, and these days it seems they’re favouring fast loading websites.

Of course, there’s a lot riding on SEO, so in 2022 we think more companies will start to prioritise their loading time above all else. Great news for those of us with short attention spans.

9. Dark mode variations

Are you a light mode or a dark mode person? We all have our preference, and when the top smart phones and social media apps started offering the choice to toggle between dark and light mode for a better user experience, it was a game changer.

Some companies are realising the benefits of this, and have started offering different options on their own websites for us to enjoy.

10. Embedded videos on homepages

If you’re not going down the illustration route, you’re probably embedding videos on your homepage instead. Another interactive way to engage your audience with your website and have a striking impact on users, video is still king when it comes to social media content, so why not utilise them for your website, too?

So there you have some of the trends we’re expecting to emerge over the next few months. Have you spotted any other interesting new trends yet?

If you’re looking to redesign your website in 2022 and want to incorporate some of these exciting new ideas, get in touch and let’s chat about how we can work together.