20 things to consider with website design trends
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Updated 15th May 2025
Important website design trends you need to know
Website design trends change quickly and staying updated is important if you want to build websites that feel modern and work well. Good design can make a big difference to how people experience your site. It can also influence how long they stay and how likely they are to take action. Here is a look at some important trends that are shaping how websites are created today.
Mobile-first design
More and more people use their phones to visit websites rather than computers. This is why designing for mobile first has become essential. A mobile-first approach means you start by making sure the site works perfectly on small screens and then build upwards towards larger screens like tablets and desktops. Websites built with mobile users in mind tend to load faster, feel more comfortable to use and perform better overall. When a site is easy to use on a phone, it naturally improves the experience for everyone else as well.
Minimalism and simplicity
A clean and simple design helps visitors find what they need without getting distracted. Minimalist websites usually stick to a few colours, lots of white space and simple fonts. The goal is to make the website easy to read and easy to move around. A simple design also helps a website load faster and makes it feel more trustworthy. By stripping away anything unnecessary, the most important parts of your message stand out better and the visitor can focus without feeling overwhelmed.
Dark mode
Dark mode has become very popular because it looks modern and helps reduce eye strain, especially in low-light environments. Instead of using a bright background, the site uses darker colours which are easier on the eyes. Dark mode is also better for battery life on certain devices. Many websites now give visitors the option to switch between light and dark versions of the site, which helps them stay longer because they can pick the view that feels most comfortable.
Micro-interactions
Micro-interactions are the small touches that happen when someone clicks a button, hovers over a menu or scrolls through a page. They make the website feel more alive and responsive. Good micro-interactions can guide visitors in a natural way, helping them understand what will happen next without needing long instructions. For example, a button might change colour slightly when hovered over to show it is clickable. These little moments create a better user experience because they make the website feel more polished and easier to use.
New website design trends to improve user experience
The world of website design keeps moving forward. New approaches and technologies offer ways to make sites look better and work harder. Here are some of the important trends that can help your website stand out and connect with visitors.
Custom illustrations and graphics
Custom illustrations and graphics are becoming more popular because they give a website a unique feel. Instead of using the same stock photos that everyone else uses, websites are now investing in creating images that match their brand perfectly. A custom graphic can tell your story better, show off your personality and leave a lasting impression. It also makes your site look more professional and helps visitors remember your brand. Sites that use personalised visuals often seem more trustworthy because they look less generic and more thoughtful.
Bold typography
Bold typography is all about using strong and striking fonts to make an impact. It helps guide the visitor’s eye to the most important information on a page. A well-chosen bold font can make headings stand out, highlight key messages and give the entire site a confident feel. By keeping text big and clear, you also make the website easier to read on mobile devices where screen space is limited. Using bold typography properly means your visitors can find what matters most without feeling lost or overwhelmed.
AI and automation in web design
Artificial intelligence and automation are now a part of how many websites are built and managed. AI can help with things like writing content suggestions, analysing what users are doing on your site and even personalising what each visitor sees based on their interests. Automation tools save time by handling repetitive tasks like sending follow-up emails or updating site content. Websites that use AI smartly feel more helpful and more personal, which can make visitors more likely to come back. As these technologies improve, they will continue to change how we design and run websites for the better.
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Website design trends to make your site stand out
As technology changes and user expectations grow, website design needs to keep up. Here are more of the important trends that can help your website feel modern, accessible, and appealing to a wider audience.
Voice search optimisation
With the rise of devices like smart speakers and voice assistants on phones, optimising your website for voice search is becoming more important. Voice searches are often longer and sound more natural than typed searches, so it helps to write your content using conversational language. Short, clear answers to common questions can help your site appear in voice search results. A website that is well-prepared for voice search can capture more traffic from people using hands-free browsing and stay ahead of the competition.
Advanced animation and motion design
Adding subtle animations and motion design to a website can create a more lively and engaging experience. Movements such as smooth scrolling effects, interactive hover animations, and transitions between sections can all add polish without overwhelming the visitor. When done well, motion design can guide the user’s attention, help tell a story, and make the website feel more dynamic and professional. Modern websites often use these techniques to create a lasting first impression and to make navigation feel natural and fluid.
Inclusive design
Inclusive design is about making websites usable for as many people as possible, including those with disabilities. This means making sure that screen readers can access your content, that your colours have enough contrast for people with vision impairments, and that all actions can be done without a mouse. Good inclusive design is not just about following rules. It shows care for all users and opens your website up to a much larger audience. More and more websites are embracing this approach because it improves both user experience and legal compliance.
Sustainable web design
Sustainability is becoming part of web design too. A sustainably designed website uses less energy by loading quickly and avoiding unnecessary extras. This can mean compressing images, writing cleaner code, and choosing hosting providers that use renewable energy. Websites that load faster are not only better for the environment but also perform better in search rankings and create a better experience for visitors. A focus on sustainable practices shows that your brand cares about the wider world, which matters to many customers today.
Asymmetrical layouts
Not every website needs to stick to perfect grids and centred text. Asymmetrical layouts allow designers to break the traditional mould and create more dynamic pages. By shifting images, text, and content blocks into less predictable places, a website can feel more artistic and lively. A good asymmetrical design grabs attention, keeps visitors curious, and often feels more modern and fresh than traditional layouts. When used thoughtfully, it can make your site look more creative and exciting.
Personalisation
Personalisation is about giving visitors a website experience that feels tailored to them. This can involve showing different content based on where the visitor is from, offering product recommendations based on their past behaviour, or even adjusting the layout depending on user preferences. Websites that offer a personalised experience are more likely to keep visitors engaged because people enjoy content that feels directly relevant to them. Personalisation is becoming easier to implement with new tools, and it is quickly becoming an expected part of good website design.
Modern website trends shaping the digital experience
As online behaviour evolves, websites must continue to find new ways to present information clearly and keep visitors engaged. Here are two more important trends that can help your site stand out in today’s competitive environment.
Data visualisation for clearer communication
Data visualisation is the art of turning numbers and facts into visual stories. Using charts, graphs, maps, and infographics helps users quickly understand information that would otherwise be hard to digest. Instead of long lists of numbers or complicated paragraphs, good data visualisation presents key insights in a way that is easy to see and remember. A website that uses data visualisation well can make complex subjects much more approachable, helping visitors make better decisions and improving how they interact with your content.
If your site involves research, reports, customer insights, or anything data-heavy, using visual elements can massively boost engagement. Well-designed charts and graphics make your website feel more professional and help build trust with your audience.
3D and immersive experiences to deepen engagement
Adding 3D elements and immersive features is a growing trend in web design. This approach makes a website feel more interactive, allowing users to explore spaces, products, or concepts in a richer, more dynamic way. It can be as simple as a 3D rotating product image or as complex as a full virtual environment users can move through.
Websites that embrace 3D and immersive experiences often leave a lasting impression because they make the visitor feel part of the journey rather than just an observer. Used well, these features can increase the time people spend on a site and encourage them to take further action, whether it is learning more about a product or completing a purchase. As technology improves, even smaller businesses can start using these techniques to make their websites more memorable.
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Website design trends that improve user engagement
Modern websites are not only about good looks but also about keeping visitors interested and creating memorable experiences. Here are some more key trends that are shaping web design today.
Scrolling effects and parallax to create depth
Scrolling effects and parallax involve moving different elements at varying speeds as a visitor scrolls down a page. This technique creates a sense of depth and movement, making the browsing experience more dynamic. Websites that use these effects well feel more alive and immersive, helping to hold the visitor’s attention for longer. When used thoughtfully, parallax can make content stand out without overwhelming the visitor.
Interactive content for better engagement
Interactive content includes features like quizzes, polls, surveys, and clickable infographics. Instead of just reading or scrolling, users can interact with the content directly. This encourages participation and often leads to better engagement and longer time spent on the website. Websites that include interactive elements offer visitors a more enjoyable and memorable experience and can often see a boost in repeat visits and conversions.
Microcopy and conversational UI for clearer communication
Microcopy refers to the small pieces of text on a website that guide users, such as form instructions or button labels. Conversational UI means designing these interactions to sound more natural and friendly. Good microcopy can make even complex actions simple and stress-free. A conversational style helps visitors feel more comfortable and confident when using your site. Websites that get this right often feel easier to use and leave a better impression on visitors.
Augmented reality for interactive experiences
Augmented reality is starting to play a role in web design by blending digital elements into the real world. Some websites now offer features like virtual try-ons or product previews that users can explore through their phones or computers. Adding AR to your website can make it much more engaging and interactive. It also helps visitors make better purchasing decisions by seeing products in a more realistic way.
Privacy and security features to build trust
As more people worry about online privacy, websites must take security seriously. Good practices include encryption, secure forms, and clear privacy policies. Visitors are more likely to trust a site that protects their information properly. A secure and private site builds confidence and can even help improve search engine rankings, making it an important part of good web design today.
Final thoughts on website design trends
Website design is always evolving, driven by new technologies, user expectations, and design innovations. In 2024, several website design trends are shaping how websites look and function. Staying updated with these trends is crucial for keeping your website relevant, engaging, and user-friendly. Fortunately, WordPress offers a flexible platform that allows you to implement these trends easily—especially when combined with powerful design tools like MaxiBlocks.
Current website design trends
- Minimalism and Clean Design Clean, minimalist designs continue to dominate, emphasising simplicity, spacious layouts, and straightforward navigation. The goal is to remove distractions and allow the content to take centre stage. The focus is on reducing clutter and providing users with an easy, smooth experience. WordPress themes and page builders like MaxiBlocks support minimalistic designs with their clean templates and ample white space, ensuring content remains the focus.
- Dark Mode Dark mode has gained immense popularity, offering users a visually comfortable experience, particularly in low-light environments. Many websites are now offering a dark mode option or implementing it as the default. With tools like MaxiBlocks, users can quickly adjust their WordPress theme to support dark mode by tweaking colour schemes, providing an elegant, modern look that enhances readability.
- Mobile-First Design With the increase in mobile traffic, designing websites that look great on all devices is essential. Mobile-first design has become a standard practice, with designs optimised for mobile screens first and then scaled up for desktops. MaxiBlocks ensures that all elements created with the plugin are responsive and automatically adapt to mobile devices, ensuring a seamless experience across smartphones, tablets, and desktops.
- Custom Illustrations and Graphics
More and more websites are moving away from stock photos and incorporating custom illustrations, animations, and other unique visual elements. Custom graphics help brands create a unique identity and enhance user engagement. With MaxiBlocks, you can easily implement SVG icons, custom illustrations, and other design elements that can be customised and incorporated into your site without any design restrictions. - Micro-Interactions
Micro-interactions are small animations or design features that respond to user actions, such as hovering over a button or clicking a link. These small details add a sense of interactivity and make the user experience feel more engaging. MaxiBlocks offers various animations and interactive elements that can be easily added to your WordPress website, from hover effects to animated transitions, enhancing the overall user experience. - Bold Typography
Typography is more important than ever. Designers are opting for larger, bolder fonts to make statements and guide users’ attention. Websites are becoming more typographically rich, using unique fonts and custom styles to stand out. MaxiBlocks allows you to easily adjust font styles, sizes, and spacing, giving you the flexibility to use bold typography in your design to create visually striking text that grabs attention. - Video Backgrounds
Video backgrounds are becoming increasingly popular, as they can effectively communicate a brand’s message in a dynamic way. A short, looped video on the homepage can grab attention and immediately convey the brand’s vibe. With MaxiBlocks, you can effortlessly integrate video backgrounds into your WordPress site, creating an engaging, immersive experience that enhances the design without slowing down your site’s performance. - AI-powered Design Tools
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to develop, AI-powered design tools are making their way into web development. These tools help automate tasks like layout adjustments, content generation, and even image editing. While AI isn’t directly integrated into WordPress, using plugins like MaxiBlocks gives you access to powerful, easy-to-use design tools that simplify customisation, helping you create professional designs more quickly and efficiently.
How MaxiBlocks fits into these trends
MaxiBlocks is a fantastic tool to implement many of these design trends on your WordPress website. Here’s how it helps:
- Flexibility for modern designs: MaxiBlocks offers an extensive library of pre-designed templates and block patterns, making it easy to create minimalistic and clean layouts without any hassle. You can easily customise the design elements to fit the trends you’re following.
- Responsive design: With MaxiBlocks, you don’t have to worry about making your website mobile-friendly—it’s built right into the plugin. The designs automatically adapt to different screen sizes, ensuring that your site works perfectly on all devices.
- Customisation and animations: MaxiBlocks allows you to incorporate micro-interactions, animations, and transitions to add life to your pages. These small interactive elements make your site more engaging and dynamic.
- Unique visuals: Whether it’s adding custom SVG icons or creating engaging video backgrounds, MaxiBlocks supports the integration of unique, personalised design elements that help make your website stand out.
- Typography and colour options: With MaxiBlocks, you can easily adjust typography, colours, and spacing to create bold, eye-catching designs that fit the latest typography trends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, staying on top of website design trends is essential for keeping your site fresh and engaging. Trends like minimalist design, dark mode, and custom graphics are shaping how websites look and function, and WordPress—combined with powerful tools like MaxiBlocks makes it easier than ever to implement these trends. With MaxiBlocks, you have the flexibility to create modern, responsive, and visually appealing websites that keep your visitors engaged.
If you want to create a WordPress site that stands out, follow these design trends and utilise MaxiBlocks to enhance your creative vision. Whether you’re building a blog, business site, or portfolio, MaxiBlocks offers all the tools you need to stay ahead of the curve.
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FAQs – Website design trends
What are the current website design trends?
Website design trends continuously evolve as technology and user preferences change. Some of the key trends this year include bold typography, custom illustrations, dark mode with vivid colour schemes, interactive 3D elements, and AI-powered tools. Designers are also focusing on sustainability with energy-efficient websites and incorporating gamification to engage users.
Why is typography important in website design?
Typography plays a crucial role in website design because it affects readability, user experience, and overall aesthetics. Bold and expressive typography can help convey your brand’s personality, create emphasis on key content, and guide visitors through your site. It’s a vital element that can make your website stand out and improve engagement.
How does dark mode impact website design?
Dark mode is popular because it reduces eye strain, saves battery life on mobile devices, and gives websites a sleek, modern look. Combining dark backgrounds with vibrant, contrasting colours creates a visually dynamic design. Many users prefer dark mode for its aesthetics, and incorporating it can improve user experience and accessibility on your site.
What is anti-design in website design?
Anti-design is a trend that embraces imperfection, breaking conventional design rules. It includes asymmetry, clashing colours, and unconventional layouts that create a more authentic and expressive experience. This trend seeks to move away from overly polished, symmetrical designs, opting instead for creative, bold layouts that stand out.
How can I make my website more sustainable?
Sustainable web design involves creating energy-efficient websites by optimizing code, reducing image sizes, and using eco-friendly hosting. By focusing on performance, you can reduce the environmental impact of your website while also improving its speed and user experience. Making thoughtful design decisions, like minimizing resource-heavy elements, also contributes to a greener digital environment.
What role do AI-powered tools play in web design?
AI-powered tools are revolutionising web design by automating tasks such as layout generation, content recommendations, and even creating custom designs. These tools make the design process faster, more efficient, and highly personalised, helping designers create unique and tailored websites without having to manually adjust every detail.
What are interactive 3D elements, and why are they popular?
Interactive 3D elements engage users by providing depth and interactivity within the design. These could include features like rotating product images, immersive backgrounds, or interactive animations. 3D visuals enhance the user experience by making websites more dynamic and engaging, especially in e-commerce or creative portfolios.
How does gamification improve website design?
Gamification involves incorporating game-like elements such as progress bars, rewards, and challenges into website design. These interactive features can make browsing more engaging and encourage users to take specific actions, such as signing up, completing a task, or making a purchase. Gamification enhances user experience and can improve customer loyalty and retention.
Why is mobile-first design important?
Mobile-first design prioritises creating websites that are optimized for mobile devices before considering desktop designs. This is critical as mobile traffic now exceeds desktop traffic. Websites that load quickly and look great on smartphones and tablets tend to perform better in terms of user engagement, SEO rankings, and overall satisfaction.
How can personalisation enhance website design?
Personalisation in website design involves tailoring content, recommendations, and user interfaces based on individual user behavior or data. By offering a more customised experience, websites can increase engagement, improve user satisfaction, and drive conversions. Personalisation can be based on factors like location, previous browsing history, or user preferences.
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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twitter.com/maxiblocks
linkedin.com/company/maxi-blocks
github.com/orgs/maxi-blocks
wordpress.org/plugins/maxi-blocks
Kyra Pieterse
Author
Kyra is the co-founder and creative lead of MaxiBlocks, an open-source page builder for WordPress Gutenberg.
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