1) Symmetrical layouts
Symmetrical layouts allow you to create a more modern and sleek look for your site. It takes away all distractions from the page and allows visitors to read without any interference or distraction from other sections of the page. Symmetrical layouts allow you to draw attention to particular sections of your website intentionally. Splitting a section in two, allows you to effectively separate the reader's attention. Keeping it simple, can help you to take your visitor on the journey you have designed.2) Earthy and primary colours
Earthy colours are very 'in' right now. Not only do they help create a calm environment, but they are also influenced by a cultural emphasis on sustainability. Many people and businesses are in pursuit of sustainability and this trend is creeping into the web design industry - with many people looking to opt for a natural earthy design for their website.3) Images of real people
Inclusivity is incredibly important. People are looking for their own identity and for others with who they can identify. Allowing others to see who you are and who works within your business is important for both small and large businesses. As we move more and more into an online world, showing your customers the real people behind the business is vital to online success.
4) Let's go retro
Although retro designs of the past are often looked on now as tragic, these designs are making a comeback, but with the added benefit of many years of design experience and modern technology. These designs now have a chance to look professional and fun. 90s 'web design' was an opportunity to show off gimmicks, whereas now, designers have the ability to put together a well thought out retro website, that will look great and deliver an outstanding user experience.5) Oversized typography
At a certain point, text becomes more of a graphic element than just part of the copy. Web designers are now taking advantage of this in their website designs. By utilising large text on the page, designers can create statements and headers that focus their audience's attention. The reader is able to digest all of the information available easily without any distractions or unnecessary elements getting in their way.6) Glassmorphism
This versatile trend utilises a combination of transparency, blur and movement to make pages appear glass-like. Glassmorphism creates an optical illusion by using diffusion, reflection and shadow on the page. Giving an almost 3D effect. The transparency gives a 'frosted glass' type appearance which allows you to create a feeling of depth without adding too many elements into the design.7) Inclusive copy
Websites are becoming a hugely popular way to shop, but people still require that personal touch. As the volume of visitors to our websites increases, it is not always possible for business owners to personally interact with each customer, however, you can do this through your web copy. Inclusive copy helps your website to be more welcoming and accessible to even more people. Think about what you say, how you say it and how you display it. Your font, size and colour all have an impact on your visitors and their experience with your website and business. Are you thinking about a new business website in time for the New Year? Or perhaps you are fed up with having to pay for minor changes on your website? Does your website just need a new look? Get started with us today! It’s as easy as 1,2,3. If you need help and assistance with a brand new website, then why not schedule a 1-2-1 chat with our Web Guy Jon? He can talk you through all the ways you can make your website work. We hope that you got value from our blog post to help with your business. If you are looking to create a new website or your current site need updating then contact our director of business development Gary on sales@thewebguys.co.uk to take your online presence to the next level. We can help you to create a top-quality website that you can use to sell your products or services – we will help you to get your website up and running and advise you on how to really make the most of your website >>> Get started today.How to Technically Achieve the Glassmorphism Effect
Glassmorphism is created using specific web technologies, primarily CSS, to produce its signature frosted-glass look. The core of the effect relies on layering and selective blurring. To implement it, a developer would typically apply a semi-transparent background to an HTML element.
The most important CSS property is backdrop-filter, specifically using the blur() function. This blurs any content that is layered behind the element, creating the frosted appearance. A complete implementation usually involves:
- Setting a background color with transparency (e.g., using RGBA or hex with alpha).
- Applying the backdrop-filter: blur(10px); property.
- Adding a subtle, thin border to help the element's edges stand out from the background.
- Using a slight box-shadow to create a sense of depth and lift the element off the page.
This combination of transparency, blur, and subtle borders is what allows designers to build modern, layered interfaces that feel tangible.
Tools and Techniques for Modern Retro Web Design
Creating a retro-themed website that feels modern requires balancing nostalgia with current usability standards. Designers often use specific tools to achieve this look. Vector graphics software like Adobe Illustrator or Figma can be used to create pixel art and 90s-style graphics. For typography, font libraries such as Google Fonts or marketplaces like DaFont offer a wide range of pixelated or grunge-inspired typefaces.
Key techniques for a modern retro feel include:
- Brutalist elements: Using raw, unstyled HTML components and stark color contrasts.
- Visible grids: Intentionally showing layout borders, which is a nod to early web design that used tables for structure.
- Nostalgic color palettes: Combining bright, saturated primary colors with simple gray or black backgrounds.
- Pixelated icons: Using low-resolution icons and favicons for a classic computer aesthetic.
The goal is to evoke the spirit of the early web without sacrificing the performance and accessibility users now expect.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2022 Web Design Trends
How does oversized typography improve user experience?
Large typography acts as a strong visual anchor, immediately guiding a user's eye to the most important message. It improves readability for key headlines and reduces cognitive load by making the information hierarchy clear. This helps visitors quickly understand a page's purpose without being overwhelmed by text.
Is a symmetrical layout good for mobile websites?
While side-by-side symmetry works best on wider desktop screens, the principle of balance is crucial for mobile. On smaller screens, symmetry is achieved vertically. A well-balanced mobile layout stacks elements in a clean, centered, and predictable way, creating a simple and easy-to-navigate experience for users on the go.
Which trend is best for a business focused on sustainability?
The earthy and primary colors trend is an ideal fit. Using muted greens, browns, and blues connects the website's visual identity directly to nature and eco-consciousness. This reinforces a brand's message of sustainability and trustworthiness at a glance.
Practical Steps for Writing More Inclusive Web Copy
Inclusive copy is about ensuring your content is accessible and understandable to the widest possible audience. The goal is to remove barriers that might exclude people based on ability, language, or background. This practice directly supports principles found in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Here are actionable steps to make your copy more inclusive:
- Use plain language: Avoid industry jargon, complex acronyms, and overly long sentences. This helps people with cognitive disabilities and non-native speakers understand your message.
- Ensure readable typography: Select clear, simple fonts and maintain high contrast between text and background colors to assist users with visual impairments.
- Write descriptive link text: Instead of 'click here', use text that describes the destination, such as 'read our full company history'. This provides crucial context for screen reader users.
By focusing on clarity and accessibility, you create a better, more welcoming experience for every visitor.
