Web design best practices you must take into consideration
October 4, 2023
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October 5, 2023The digital world changed a lot in the past few years, and this has to do with the emerging of new businesses, pretentious clients and creative websites. Because the expectations grew, websites have to be handled differently now.
A few tips to get you started
Before anything else, you need to understand what type of project you are supposed to design. You will get a short description of the website, which is not enough to put together the website ideas. Ask about the expectations of the client and the purpose of the website. Is the website supposed to generate income through ads or to offer users the best experience possible? Learn everything you can about the website and you will be able to build it accordingly.
Your starting point
First of all, you need to know what your starting point is. Some clients want their website build from scratch while others want it redesigned. Discuss with your clients thoroughly about the starting point that you have. This way, you will know how to organize your time and resources better.
Always get inspired
The Internet is not the only place where you can gather website design ideas. Online samples are mainstream, and everyone is used to them, so you should stick with reading books and magazines that will visually inspire you. Always keep a notebook by your side.
Backgrounds can be handled
Even though many web designers fear using backgrounds because of the bandwidth problem, it would be better if you’d accept the challenge and optimize images to make the website load fast AND look good at the same time. Mobile development is very important too.
Share progress and ask for feedback
Whenever you complete a major part of the project, you should send the results to your client instead of going further with what you have to do next. The goal is to be on the very same page with your client and not make as many changes after the project is completed. Your client will have a completely different picture in mind, so keep in mind that receiving feedback and making the changes by sections will be easier. The initial concept is the one that will receive a lot of feedback. Then, things will be easier to model according to the needs and wants of the client. Creative web design takes time and attention, so be patient when building a website.
Focus on fonts
When talking about innovative web design, you definitely need to step up the game regarding typography. Fonts can express message differently, based on how they look. You should study typography and see what typefaces look good with each other. Choosing easy-to-read fonts that are eye-pleasing should be your main purpose. You can look for new website ideas and see how other web designers included typography in their designs.
Keep the layout simple
Most creative websites that are appreciated today have a very simple layout. The reason behind that is that a simpler structure on a website it’s much easier to navigate. This way, users can rapidly find what they are looking for, without having to spend a lot of time for that task. Complicated websites make users leave it instantly. Look for minimal webpage ideas to understand the concept better.
Creative website examples to get you inspired
APPS
When it comes to creative web design, APPS is definitely the example you should see. It is a liquor company, which made the website even more difficult to design because it presents alcohol products. The design is intuitive and aesthetically pleasing. It includes a colorful product page that lets users check out the items they are interested in.
Pieces
Pieces is the definition of creative website design. It is an interactive website that beautifully present endangered animal species. The interactive part comes from the fact that users can check out the information and story of each species. They just have to click and scroll down the website. It is one of the best creative websites out there, as it raises awareness of people regarding endangered species without being spammy.
Booreiland
This is a very minimalist website that includes a simple homepage and classic menu designs. The homepage presents two different buttons: one for the menu, and one for searching content on the website. It also includes a slideshow portfolio. The side menu is very responsive and intuitive to use.
Cruxmedia
Regarding stylized menus, Cruxmedia seems to be the most appropriate example. It is a developer’s personal website, which is pretty much the reason why it looks so good. The website has great loading times and a unique navigation style. The menu is based on a wireframe design and all buttons on the website can be clicked. The buttons will take users to the part of the website they are interested in.
Cyclemon
Cyclemon is the perfect place for cycling enthusiasts. It presents bicycles, but not in the manner that everyone is used to. Cyclemon has a neat design, introducing bicycles as complex illustrations. The navigation type used is parallax scrolling, which is often used for creative websites. The color scheme is eye-pleasing and the way the illustrations are presented is very attractive. The overall design is unique.
Gunrange
From the list of creative websites, In Space We Trust deserves a special spot because of its use of gamification. The website has gamification elements that help people learn more about the space. Websites that have educational purposes seem to be very effective when they include gamification to attract users, which is a very popular trend in web design today.
Cakes
Zervice is a very unique website that splits multiple homepages into blocks. Users can choose the block they are interested in and the website takes them to the content they need. This is a very good approach for websites that contain a lot of written content that is difficult to navigate through. It is also effective for companies that sell a lot of products and want to separate them into multiple categories
Be School
Climber is another unique one on the list of creative websites. It has an interactive interface and it presents multiple digital products in a distinctive manner. The base theme of the website is a forest and it includes animated elements that users can interact with during navigation. The design works of the Interactive Production Company can be checked out by simply clicking around. The website is intuitive and should inspire all web designers that need a similar layout for their projects.
Google Arts & Culture
This is a single-page website that uses video backgrounds and interactive elements to convey a beautiful message. It is an informative website where people can learn more about a specific topic. It has a very simple layout and all the videos are aerial, which gives users a view that is usually not accessible to the human eye. Videos on such creative websites load very fast due to better worldwide internet connectivity and improved technologies.
Carambar & Co
Carambar Company website promoting 13 mythical candy and chocolate brands. Carambar & Co is a new and young company, founded in May 2017, the goal being to revitalize some famous brands like Terry’s, the legendary British Chocolate Orange, but also Carambar, Poulain, Kréma, Michoko, Vichy… all part of the French heritage. Brands sometimes a little left aside, but all of which make the company remember great childhood memories.
coffee
Enhance is focused on developing brand new EXPERIENCES. Whether it be games, entertainment, art, devices or services. The mission is Creating special Experience and share with as many users around the word. The company believes that synesthetic emotional experiences have the power to bring people together -- and by sharing them with others, the world will be a better place
Lost in Refuge Jordan Edition
The Hoosier Lottery began selling lottery tickets on October 13, 1989, after a majority of Indiana citizens voted "yes" on a 1988 voter referendum. Since then, the company offered hundreds of different fun and exciting games to our players, awarded prizes to millions of players and given billions of dollars to the State of Indiana. Even though our games may come and go, the goal has remained the same: to raise money for the State of Indiana and its residents. Help solve the mystery and have a lil’ fun this holiday with this immersive experience from the Hoosier Lottery.
Kalfire W53/50R
Fire in its purest form. Discover the new W53/50R Kalfire design fireplace. The design fireplace for enthusiasts who refuse to compromise, but listen to their feelings. Durable materials and a sublime finish characterise the W53/50R design fireplace. Kalfire prides itself on creating a product that is uncompromising in its craftsmanship, quality and design.
Detailing
A video-led interactive project marking 125 years of women's suffrage, using technology, storytelling and design to bring it to life. An innovative way - by gathering eight diverse and inspiring women to perform an edited extract of Kate’s, representing the decades that have gone by since 1893 and women to be present behind the camera as much as they were in front. So, in contrast to most film projects in New Zealand and around the world, an almost all-female crew managed the entire shoot.
Drive Studio
Drive Studio is a digital studio dedicated to developing, producing and distributing innovative and premium quality video content. Scandinavia’s leading nextgen entertainment studio redefining how TV and digital content stories are told, developed, packaged and distributed across television, social and online.
Mai-lan-Pumper
Algo is the cloud platform creating real-time, data-driven videos at scale, starting from tailored design templates. You can launch your video strategy with the help of humans and a robot. For every project the team creates a tailored design template consistent with your brand and codes it to make it speak with live data.
TPMM
Tbilisi Photography & Multimedia Museum gives us great inspiration to create something awesome. Relax and Enjoy looking at TPMM concept. Tbilisi Photography & Multimedia Museum (TPMM) is the first institution in Georgia entirely dedicated to contemporary image in its different forms - photography, new media, video.
Meet Mazuma
To demo the newest Sony Xperia XZ2 with multiple premium features, we build the “Entertainment to the Extreme“ website by utilized WebGL and Real-time SHADER technologies.
FAQ on creative website designs
What's the big deal about creative website design anyway?
Well, you see, creative website design isn't just about making a site look pretty. It's about crafting an experience. When a site is designed with creativity, it tells a story, engages the visitor, and can even boost conversions. Think of it as the digital face of a brand. A well-designed site can make a lasting impression, while a poorly designed one can turn visitors away.
How do I know if my website design is "creative" enough?
Ah, the age-old question! Creativity is subjective, but there are some hallmarks to look out for. Does your site evoke emotion? Does it stand out from the crowd? Is it functional yet unexpected? If you find yourself nodding, you're on the right track. But remember, it's not just about being different; it's about being effectively different.
Are there any tools or platforms that can help with creative design?
Absolutely! There's a plethora of tools out there. From Adobe Suite for intricate designs to platforms like Wix or Squarespace for those who aren't design-savvy. But tools are just tools. The real magic? It comes from understanding your audience, your brand, and how to weave them together in a digital tapestry.
How important is mobile responsiveness in creative design?
Oh, let me tell you! In today's world, if your site isn't mobile-friendly, you're missing out. Big time. Mobile responsiveness isn't just a "nice-to-have" anymore. It's a must. A creatively designed site that doesn't function on mobile? It's like a sports car without an engine. Looks great, but doesn't go anywhere.
What's the balance between creativity and usability?
Ah, the tightrope walk! It's essential to strike a balance. You can have the most creatively designed site, but if users can't navigate it, what's the point? Always prioritize usability. A user-friendly site with a touch of creative flair? Now that's the sweet spot!
How often should I update the design of my website?
Well, there's no hard and fast rule. But in the ever-evolving digital landscape, staying fresh and relevant is key. I'd say, give your site a little "check-up" every couple of years. See if it aligns with current design trends and user expectations. Sometimes, a little tweak here and there is all you need.
Can I incorporate videos and animations in my creative design?
Why not? Videos and animations can add that extra oomph! But, and this is a big but, they need to serve a purpose. Don't just add them for the sake of it. Ensure they enhance the user experience, tell your brand story, and don't slow down your site.
How do colors influence creative website design?
Colors, my friend, are powerful. They evoke emotions, set the mood, and can even influence user actions. When thinking about colors for your site, consider your brand's personality. Are you bold and vibrant? Soft and serene? Choose colors that resonate with your brand and captivate your audience.
What role does typography play in creative design?
Typography is like the unsung hero of design. The right font can set the tone, convey a message, and even evoke emotion. It's not just about choosing a "pretty" font; it's about selecting one that aligns with your brand and enhances readability. So, give typography the attention it deserves!
How can I measure the success of my creative website design?
Success isn't just about aesthetics. Dive into analytics. Are visitors staying on your site longer? Are they engaging more? Are conversions up? These metrics can give you insights into how effective your creative design is. Remember, a beautiful site that doesn't achieve its goals is just a pretty face
Conclusion
These few examples of creative websites as well as the tips you can find in this article should help you come up with a remarkable design for your own project. Visitors must be caught up in the beauty of the site from the moment they access it, so it’s best to make it interactive and use beautiful visuals. This article should be overall useful for your future work.
