What are the 40 WordPress website design trends to watch in 2024?
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Updated 30 October 2024
Key takeaways:
- Accessibility for equality and inclusivity will be enforced with laws
- AI will play a part in every aspect of WordPress website design
- Responsive websites will continue to take centre stage
- No code will continue to democratise WordPress website design
- Good design will make a come back in website design
The year 2024 and WordPress website design
During 2024 WordPress website design will continue to focus on minimalism. Expect to see a focus on simplicity, clean lines, and plenty of negative space. This trend is all about creating a sense of calm and clarity, making it easier for visitors to navigate and find what they’re looking for. To achieve this, designers will be using a limited colour palette, plenty of white space, and a focus on typography to convey the message.
Another trend to watch out for is the rise of “dark mode” design. This involves using a predominantly dark colour scheme, often with a bold or bright accent colour to create visual interest. This trend is all about creating a sense of sophistication and luxury, and is particularly well-suited to industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare. To get this look right, designers will be using a combination of dark colours, subtle textures, and clever use of lighting effects to create a sense of depth and dimension.
Also expect to see a greater emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity in website development and website design. This means using clear and consistent navigation, high contrast colours, and clear typography to make websites easier to use for everyone. This trend is all about creating a sense of equality and inclusivity, and is particularly important for businesses that want to appeal to a broad audience. To achieve this, WordPress website designers will be using a combination of design principles, such as clear headings, consistent layout, and alt text for images, to create a website that’s accessible to all. Voice search optimisation could add to this.
2024 and beyond: 40 WordPress design trends embracing user-centric innovation
This comprehensive guide explores the top 40 trends shaping the future of WordPress website design.
1. Dark mode design
Dark mode is here to stay, with more people finding it easier on the eyes, especially at night. It’s not just stylish; dark mode can help reduce screen glare and even save battery on mobile devices. Block themes make it easy to let users switch between light and dark modes based on what feels best for them.
A good example: An online magazine could include a dark mode option to give late-night readers a more comfortable experience, helping them stay on the site longer without straining their eyes.
2. Voice search optimisation
As voice-activated searches gain popularity, more sites are optimising their content for voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. By using structured data and natural language phrasing, websites become more accessible and visible to voice search users, giving them a leg up in local and mobile search results.
Example in action: A neighbourhood café might optimise for common voice queries, such as “Where’s the closest coffee shop?” to capture nearby customers searching on mobile while on the go.
3. AI-powered personalisation
AI is bringing a new level of personalisation to WordPress websites, allowing them to adapt to individual users’ interests or browsing habits. This could mean showing tailored content, product recommendations, or even adjusting the layout based on what a visitor tends to click on, making each visit feel more relevant and engaging.
Real-world use: An online bookstore might use AI to suggest books based on previous purchases or browsing, giving readers a personalised experience that encourages them to explore more titles.
4. Advanced animation and micro-interactions
Adding subtle animations or interactive effects can make a site feel more lively and polished. Small touches like hover effects, loading animations, or smooth transitions help guide users through the site in a way that’s enjoyable and intuitive, keeping their attention as they move around.
Where this works: An e-learning platform could use animations to highlight key sections or provide feedback on quiz answers, making navigation feel seamless and learning more interactive.
5. 3D elements
Bringing 3D elements into a site design can create a more immersive experience, whether it’s for showcasing products or adding depth to a visual story. This trend lets visitors interact with models or images in ways that feel more engaging than static images, offering a modern touch that stands out. Many block compatible WordPress themes now support 3D features, making it easy to integrate these effects.
Practical use: A home decor store could feature 3D models of furniture, allowing customers to view items from every angle before making a purchase.
6. Accessibility-first design
Designing with accessibility in mind means making sites usable for everyone, including those with disabilities. Accessibility features like screen reader compatibility, intuitive navigation, and high-contrast visuals are becoming standard, ensuring a smoother browsing experience for all users.
In action: An educational site could implement easy-to-read fonts, adjustable text sizes, and keyboard navigation to provide accessible learning resources for students with different needs.
7. Minimalist and clean design
Minimalist design keeps the focus on essential content, stripping away distractions for a clean, uncluttered look. With the resources available in the Gutenberg template library, it’s easier than ever to create layouts that feel open, modern, and user-friendly.
Real-world example: A photography portfolio might use a minimalist design to let the images speak for themselves, keeping the layout simple and unobtrusive.
8. Interactive storytelling
Interactive storytelling transforms websites from static pages into engaging experiences. Adding elements like clickable timelines, animations, or multimedia sections allows users to explore a story at their own pace, making the content more memorable and immersive.
Example in use: A travel blog could use interactive maps and photo galleries, letting readers explore destinations visually and connect more deeply with the journey.
9. AR and VR integration
Augmented reality and virtual reality are bringing new possibilities to online experiences. By integrating AR and VR, websites can offer immersive features, like virtual product try-ons or 360-degree tours, creating a more engaging way for visitors to interact with content.
Real-world scenario: An online furniture retailer could let shoppers view how items look in their own rooms, helping them feel confident in their choices before buying.
10. Full-site editing with Gutenberg
Full-site editing puts complete design control into the hands of the website creator. With Gutenberg’s capabilities, site owners can customise everything from headers to footers, allowing for a cohesive style throughout without needing to touch code.
Where it fits: Small businesses can use full-site editing to maintain consistent branding across their site, easily adjusting design elements as needed to keep everything aligned with their brand.
11. Bold typography: Making a statement
Bold typography is taking centre stage in 2024, with large, impactful fonts setting a distinctive tone and capturing attention. This WordPress website design trend goes beyond style—it improves readability and gives websites a modern, confident look.
Example use: A personal blog could use bold typography for headings to establish a strong brand voice and make key messages stand out.
12. Mixed media: A feast for the senses
Incorporating different types of media, like videos, audio, and images, adds depth and variety to a site. Mixed media allows for a more dynamic experience, helping visitors engage with content in different ways.
Practical example: An educational website might mix video tutorials, infographics, and podcasts to cater to various learning preferences, keeping users engaged longer.
13. Mobile-first design: The unbreakable rule
As mobile browsing continues to dominate, designing with mobile in mind remains a top priority. Responsive design tools ensure that websites function smoothly on all screen sizes, from phones to tablets, making it easy for users to navigate on any device.
Where this shines: An e-commerce store could optimise its layout for mobile to offer easy browsing and checkout, ensuring a positive experience for on-the-go shoppers.
14. Sustainability in web design: Doing good looks good
Eco-friendly design is more than a trend; it’s becoming essential. Sustainable design practices focus on faster loading times, lower data usage, and themes optimised for minimal resource consumption, all of which help reduce a site’s environmental impact.
Real-world scenario: A nonprofit organisation could use a lightweight theme and optimise images to create a fast-loading, eco-conscious website that aligns with its mission.
15. WordPress block themes: Building blocks for success
Block themes are changing the way WordPress websites are created by allowing customisation without heavy coding. These themes use the Gutenberg editor with pre-designed blocks, making it easy to build visually appealing, unique layouts that fit a brand’s style.
Example use: A small business might use block themes to quickly set up a professional-looking website, customising each block to align with its branding.
16. CSS grid layouts: A flexible foundation
CSS grid layouts provide a flexible, structured approach to design, allowing for complex and responsive layouts that stay organised across different devices. This method helps create visually neat and balanced sites that are easy to navigate.
In action: An online magazine could use grid layouts to organise articles into visually engaging sections, giving readers a seamless browsing experience.
17. Micro-blogging and social features: Fostering a community
Integrating micro-blogging and social features can create a sense of community on a site. Features like short-form posts, social media feeds, and comment sections encourage interaction, making it easy for visitors to connect with content and each other.
Example in use: A lifestyle brand might include a micro-blog with quick tips and a social feed, giving users fresh content and a place to engage with the brand directly.
18. Dynamic scrolling: Adding a touch of wow
Dynamic scrolling effects, such as parallax and smooth transitions, add movement to a site, making it more engaging. These scrolling animations can guide the user experience naturally through a page, creating a seamless flow from one section to the next.
Practical example: A product page could use dynamic scrolling to reveal product details as users scroll down, creating an immersive, story-like experience.
19. Blockchain technology: Exploring the future
Blockchain is introducing new opportunities in web design, such as secure content management, decentralised marketplaces, and enhanced privacy. Although still developing, blockchain’s potential applications could redefine how websites handle security and transactions.
Real-world scenario: An art marketplace could use blockchain to verify digital art ownership, offering artists and buyers a secure, transparent platform.
20. No-code development: Democratizing design
The no-code movement makes it possible for anyone to build professional sites without needing to write code. With a range of visual design tools and themes, it’s easier than ever to create and customise layouts that look polished and fit a brand’s identity.
Practical use: A small business owner with no coding experience could use no-code tools to set up a fully functional website, saving on development costs and gaining creative control.
21. Open source website builders: Power to the people
Open-source builders are making sophisticated web design accessible to more people. By offering flexible, customisable platforms, open-source builders support creativity and independence, removing barriers for those without technical expertise.
Example in action: A nonprofit could use an open-source builder to create and manage its own site, easily updating content and features without needing a developer.
22. Flexbox: Flexible layouts made easy
Flexbox is a powerful tool for building responsive layouts that adapt smoothly to different screen sizes. WordPress block themes and plugins allow for precise control over the alignment and distribution of elements, ensuring that a website looks organised and professional across devices.
Real-world scenario: An online clothing store could use Flexbox to arrange product grids that automatically adjust for desktop, tablet, and mobile views, creating a seamless shopping experience.
23. Pattern library powerhouse: Page builders with built-in assets
Pattern libraries in page builders are transforming design by offering pre-built sections and layouts that are ready to use. These drag-and-drop assets save time and help maintain a cohesive look across a site, allowing creators to focus more on content and less on complex design work.
Practical example: A business website could use pattern libraries to quickly build consistent pages for services, testimonials, and contact information, achieving a polished look without custom design.
24. SVG icons: Scalable and versatile
SVG icons are ideal for modern web design because they scale seamlessly across devices without losing quality. They load quickly and look crisp on screens of any size, making them a reliable choice for icons, logos, and other graphic elements.
Example use: An app developer might use SVG icons for navigation buttons, ensuring they look sharp on both mobile and desktop devices.
25. Masks and layering: Adding depth and dimension
Masks and layering create a sense of depth and visual interest, making it easy to highlight specific elements or add creative effects. Techniques like text overlays and hover reveals can add a polished look that subtly guides user attention.
In action: A portfolio site could use layered images with subtle shadows and hover effects, making each project stand out with a professional finish.
26. Essential plugins for every site: Building a strong foundation
Some plugins are key for a well-rounded website, including those for security, SEO, performance optimisation, and backups. These essentials help keep a site safe, fast, and user-friendly, ensuring a strong foundation to handle traffic and protect data.
Example in use: An e-commerce site could install security and backup plugins to protect customer information and prevent data loss in case of a technical issue.
27. Pre-designed WordPress block templates: Hit the ground running
Pre-designed block templates offer an easy starting point for building pages. These templates come with pre-built blocks that can be customised, giving sites a professional look without needing a full design from scratch.
Practical example: A freelance portfolio site might use block templates to quickly set up project galleries and testimonials, allowing the designer to focus on showcasing their work.
28. Gradient and duotone colours: Adding vibrancy and style
Gradients and duotone colour schemes add a stylish and modern touch to web design. These effects create depth and visual appeal, helping brands stand out and experiment with different colour combinations that fit their identity.
Real-world scenario: A music website might use duotone effects on artist profiles and album covers, creating a cohesive, visually engaging experience.
29. Dynamic content: Personalization for a unique experience
Dynamic content personalises user experiences by displaying different information based on factors like location, browsing history, or previous interactions. This approach makes a website feel more relevant and engaging to each visitor.
Example in action: A travel website could show personalised recommendations based on a user’s past searches, such as similar destinations or related travel tips, creating a customised browsing experience.
30. Synced patterns in the WordPress pattern library: Consistency made easy
A synced WordPress pattern library allows for easy updates across multiple pages by linking patterns to a central design. Any edits to a pattern automatically update across the website, saving time and ensuring a cohesive visual look.
Practical use: An online store might use synced patterns for product descriptions, allowing changes to be reflected site-wide in one step, keeping the content consistent and up to date.
31. Drag and drop website builder open source platforms: Freedom and flexibility
Open-source drag-and-drop builders offer both ease of use and freedom to customise without vendor restrictions. This blend of flexibility and accessibility enables users to create unique, visually appealing sites that fit their needs.
Real-world scenario: A startup could use an open-source drag-and-drop builder to quickly build and adjust their site, ensuring full control over design and functionality without relying on proprietary systems.
32. Gutenberg editor’s rise to dominance: A user-friendly future
The Gutenberg editor’s block-based design simplifies content creation, making it accessible for those with little to no coding background. Its intuitive layout and customisation options make it a popular choice for creating professional, polished websites.
Where this helps: Bloggers and small business owners can use Gutenberg’s tools to create visually appealing pages with minimal effort, reducing the need for complex coding or design work.
33. Scrolling transformations: Captivating user journeys
Scrolling transformations make the journey through a website more interactive and engaging. Effects like parallax scrolling, smooth transitions, and animations triggered by scrolling add visual appeal and can guide users naturally from one section to another.
Practical example: A portfolio site could use scrolling transformations to reveal project details gradually, keeping viewers engaged and encouraging them to explore further.
34. AI website builders: Intelligent design assistance
AI is becoming a helpful tool in website design, offering features like design suggestions, layout recommendations, and even automated content generation. These tools streamline the design process, making it easier for creators to build a polished site with minimal effort.
In action: A new business could use an AI website builder to quickly set up a site, with AI-generated suggestions for layout and design elements tailored to their industry.
35. Expanding the WordPress design library: A treasure of resources
The design library is continuously growing, offering a rich selection of pre-designed elements and templates. This expanded library provides an easy way to start building professional websites with access to elements that can be customised to fit any brand or style.
Example use: A freelancer could use the library to speed up the design process, choosing from pre-made templates and modifying them to meet client needs efficiently.
36. Minimalism reigns supreme: Less is more, but more impactful
Minimalism focuses on clean, uncluttered layouts that highlight essential content and create a comfortable browsing experience. With bold typography and intentional use of space, WordPress website designs ensure a site looks modern while staying user-friendly.
Real-world scenario: An online magazine might adopt a minimalist design to make articles easy to read, keeping distractions to a minimum and letting the content take centre stage.
37. Beyond Gutenberg blocks: Pattern library expansion
The Gutenberg pattern library is expanding to include more than just single blocks. This growing collection will feature pre-designed sections and layouts that can be easily integrated, helping users build cohesive and visually appealing sites without needing design skills.
Example in action: A business website could use expanded pattern options to create consistent layouts for service pages, saving time while maintaining a professional look.
38. Open source website builder momentum: A growing movement
The momentum behind open-source website builders is increasing, encouraging innovation and accessibility in web design. These platforms offer flexibility, allowing anyone to build and modify a site without being locked into proprietary systems.
Practical example: A nonprofit could use an open-source builder to create a customised site, enjoying the freedom to adapt it as needed without relying on a specific vendor.
39. Micro-interactions: Subtle details, big impact
Micro-interactions add small, responsive animations or effects, like button hover effects or smooth menu transitions. These subtle touches enhance the user experience, making the website feel more interactive and engaging.
Where it’s useful: An online shop might add micro-interactions to product images and buttons, creating a more engaging and polished experience that encourages users to explore further.
40. WordPress navigation menus: A foundation for user flow
WordPress Navigation menus are essential for guiding users through a site, and recent advancements allow for more dynamic, user-responsive menus. These adaptable menus can highlight relevant content based on user behaviour, improving site usability and creating a smoother browsing experience.
Example use: A news website might use dynamic menus that show trending stories or recently viewed categories, making it easier for users to find the content they’re interested in.
Final thoughts
In 2024, website design trends are set to make sites more interactive, personalised, and accessible than ever before. From AI-driven personalisation to the rise of dynamic scrolling and 3D elements, these trends focus on creating user experiences that are engaging and intuitive. As the demand for visually rich and responsive designs grows, elements like bold typography, SVG icons, and micro-interactions will add polish, while minimalist design and sustainability practices ensure sites are clean, efficient, and eco-friendly. Together, these innovations are helping website creators meet the evolving expectations of modern audiences, ensuring that sites are not only functional but enjoyable to navigate.
With tools like Gutenberg’s expanding pattern library, no-code builders, and open-source platforms, creating professional, dynamic websites has never been more accessible. These advancements empower designers and site owners to experiment with cutting-edge features while maintaining control over design consistency and user experience. As these trends take shape, 2024 promises to be a year of creativity, inclusivity, and seamless usability in web design, allowing both seasoned developers and newcomers to build compelling sites that resonate with visitors on a personal level.
FAQ: 40 WordPress design trends to watch in 2024
How does dark mode improve user experience on WordPress sites?
Dark mode provides a visually comfortable browsing experience, especially in low-light conditions, reducing eye strain and potentially saving on device battery life. WordPress block themes facilitate easy switching between light and dark modes, enhancing user satisfaction.
Can WordPress sites be optimized for voice search?
Yes, by leveraging structured data and optimizing content with conversational keywords and FAQs, WordPress sites can improve their discoverability through voice search queries, making them more accessible to users utilizing voice-activated devices.
What role does AI play in WordPress site personalization?
AI can analyze user behavior and preferences to deliver personalized content, recommendations, and experiences, making WordPress sites more engaging and relevant to individual visitors.
How do animations and micro-interactions benefit WordPress websites?
Subtle animations and micro-interactions enrich the user interface, offering a polished look and feel. They can guide users, provide feedback on actions, and enhance the overall engagement on the site.
Are 3D elements practical in WordPress website design?
Yes, 3D elements can create immersive experiences, particularly for product showcases or interactive storytelling. WordPress themes compatible with blocks support the integration of 3D elements, adding depth to web design.
How important is accessibility in WordPress design?
Accessibility is crucial, ensuring that websites are usable for everyone, including individuals with disabilities. WordPress is focused on improving accessibility features, such as keyboard navigation and screen reader support, to comply with legal standards and ethical considerations.
What makes minimalist design appealing in WordPress themes?
Minimalist design emphasizes content clarity and ease of navigation by eliminating unnecessary elements, focusing on clean lines and open spaces. The Gutenberg template library supports this trend with resources for creating decluttered layouts.
How does WordPress facilitate interactive storytelling?
WordPress enables interactive storytelling through various features and plugins that allow creators to build engaging narratives with interactive elements, enhancing the user experience and making content more memorable.
What potential does AR and VR integration hold for WordPress sites?
AR and VR technologies offer innovative ways to engage visitors, from virtual product demos to immersive explorations. As these technologies become more accessible, WordPress sites can provide unique, cutting-edge experiences.
What advantages does full-site editing with Gutenberg offer WordPress users?
Full-site editing in Gutenberg provides WordPress users with comprehensive control over their site’s design, from global styles to individual page elements, streamlining the design process and enabling a cohesive look and feel across the site.
Why is bold typography becoming a trend in WordPress design?
Bold typography captures attention and aids readability, making it a powerful tool for conveying messages and guiding users through a site. WordPress designs are leveraging large, impactful fonts to enhance visual hierarchy and user engagement.
How does integrating mixed media enhance WordPress websites?
Mixed media, such as videos, audio, and animations, creates richer, more dynamic user experiences. WordPress supports easy integration of diverse media types, making sites more engaging and informative.
Why is mobile-first design crucial for WordPress sites in 2024?
With mobile devices accounting for a significant portion of web traffic, mobile-first design ensures that WordPress sites provide optimal usability and performance on smaller screens, critical for reaching a wider audience.
How does sustainability influence WordPress web design?
Sustainable web design minimizes environmental impact by optimizing site performance for faster loading times and lower data usage. WordPress themes and plugins are adopting eco-friendly practices to support this trend.
What is WordPress Gutenberg? Gutenberg is the block-based editor introduced in WordPress 5.0, allowing users to build content layouts using draggable blocks.
How do I install WordPress for my WordPress website design?
To install WordPress for your WordPress website design, you can use the one-click installation feature provided by most hosting services. Log in to your hosting dashboard, locate the WordPress installer, and follow the prompts to complete the installation for your WordPress website design.
What are the benefits of using WordPress for website design?
The benefits of using WordPress for website design include ease of use, a wide range of customisation options with themes and plugins, and strong community support. WordPress is also SEO-friendly and scalable to grow with your business, making it ideal for your WordPress website design.
How can I customise the appearance of my WordPress website design?
You can customise the appearance of your WordPress website design by selecting and installing a theme that matches your vision. Additionally, you can use the WordPress Customiser to tweak colours, fonts, and other visual elements to enhance your WordPress website design.
What plugins should I install for my WordPress website design?
Essential plugins to install for your WordPress website design include Yoast SEO for search engine optimisation, Contact Form 7 for creating contact forms, and WooCommerce if you plan to run an online store. Other useful plugins are UpdraftPlus for backups and Akismet for spam protection, enhancing your WordPress website design.
How do I keep my WordPress website design secure?
To keep your WordPress website design secure, regularly update your WordPress core, themes, and plugins. Use strong passwords and consider installing security plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri. Regularly back up your site and monitor for any suspicious activity to protect your WordPress website design.
Can I create an online store with my WordPress website design?
Yes, you can create an online store with your WordPress website design by using the WooCommerce plugin. WooCommerce provides all the tools you need to manage products, handle payments, and track orders within your WordPress website design.
How do I optimise my WordPress website design for search engines?
Optimise your WordPress website design for search engines by installing the Yoast SEO plugin, which helps with keyword optimisation, meta descriptions, and readability analysis. Additionally, ensure your site loads quickly, has a mobile-friendly design, and contains high-quality content to improve your WordPress website design.
How can I back up my WordPress website design?
You can back up your WordPress website design using plugins like UpdraftPlus. These plugins allow you to schedule regular backups and store them in remote locations such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or an external server, ensuring the safety of your WordPress website design.
How do WordPress block themes revolutionize site creation?
Block themes leverage the Gutenberg editor to offer a modular approach to site design, providing pre-designed blocks and layouts for easy customization and unique site creation without extensive coding knowledge.
WordPress itself
Official Website
wordpress.org – This is the official website for WordPress, where you can download the software, find documentation, and learn more about using it.
WordPress Codex
codex.wordpress.org/Main_Page – This is a comprehensive documentation resource for WordPress, covering everything from installation and configuration to specific functionality and troubleshooting.
WordPress Theme Directory
wordpress.org/themes – The official WordPress theme directory is a great place to find free and premium WordPress themes. You can browse themes by category, feature, and popularity.
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