2025 Design Ideas to Try - or Keep
Lummi Stock Photography by Pablo Stanley and Pantone’s Color of the Year Mocha Mousse
I always want my clients to feel like they have designs that stand out and photography that is unique to them and their story. Sometimes that means dodging the trends and doing something different.
Sometimes, however, trends can be a powerful tool—especially when clients jump on board early. So, as a result, I am here to share some hot takes on what might be game changers in the Web Design space in 2025.
Some of these might feel familiar, and some might seem scary. But it’s always fun to try things on and see what fits.
COLOR
Although there is much talk about taming the color schemes of 2024 that lit up the design space with something more subdued—or, as Pantone describes it, a warming hue imbued with richness (see Pantone’s color of the year)—splashes of bold colors still seem to be garnering attention.
Yes, we all love the monochrome beiges. They will always have a place in design. But think of them more as a canvas, while the areas of color pops are the punctuated assets you want to highlight.
Why big colors? They evoke emotion. To use them effectively, it helps to understand color theory, balance, and the importance of composition. When using bold colors, it’s crucial not to overwhelm the user and to focus on colors that play well together.
The challenge is to use them in such a way that the colors leave an impression but don’t distract from the message.
Examples: Color Monkey, Vivid Glow
FONT
One thing I love that’s happening is typeface is no longer just delivering information on the page. It’s often the thing on the page—both the content and the artistic visual.
Using bold typefaces—sparingly, of course—can make text stand out. Layering fonts and using bold colors all contribute to creating a unique experience. It’s also a great way to circumvent not having any other art or visuals.
Examples: Tantillo
Squarespace’s Font Forward Template Tantillo.
Squarespace’s Template Sketchbook.
HUMAN AND IMPERFECT GRAPHICS
Translating the distinctive elements of your brand, art, or product can be challenging when limited to a digital representation. One way to create something memorable is by using imperfect, hand-sketched graphics. Incorporating textures, layering backgrounds, and adding hand-drawn doodles can elevate the first impression when people land on your site and make it unforgettable.
Examples: Sketchbook
NATURAL ELEMENTS
After spending so much time on screens, the idea of incorporating natural elements into web design is becoming increasingly common. This could include digitally designed organic shapes, earth tones with texture, or actual images of nature.
Examples: Organic Matter
LAYERING
Many of these concepts incorporate the idea of layering for added effect. Whether it’s fonts, textures, images, or shapes, creating depth in the digital world can transform the viewer’s perception of your brand.
OTHER AREAS GAINING ATTENTION
Full-page headers: This is a dynamic way to capture visitors’ attention and hold it for a moment. Dynamic images, graphics, or even bold text can grab users and leave a lasting impression.
Examples: Fayette
Parallax scrolling: This fun, interactive feature creates an engaging experience with minimal effort. It can be used with shapes, text, images, and photography.
Examples: Iris Template
Whitespace: My clients are often divided on this concept. I firmly believe in the “whitespace is good” camp. It has clear advantages, even when the desire to eliminate scrolling is strong. Think of whitespace as a canvas for your content and images.
Advantages of whitespace:
Enhances readability: White space around text and between elements makes content easier to read and digest.
Improves comprehension: Studies show that proper use of white space can improve comprehension by up to 20%.
Creates focus: Strategically placing whitespace around key elements directs users’ attention to the most important parts of the page.
Boosts interaction: A cluttered website can frustrate users. Whitespace encourages smoother navigation, enhancing user experience and interaction.
Establishes hierarchy: White space defines relationships between elements, indicating separation or connection.
Supports branding: Minimalistic designs with ample whitespace are often associated with luxury, simplicity, or sophistication.
