Pretentious Trends

Web design (which controls the appearance and format of Web writing) goes through trends much like any other form of design or fashion. I took a look at Current Web style to see some examples of the current trends in Web design. These trends are very simple design techniques, and when used sparingly and effectively, can bolster readability and the user-friendly attitude current designers carry.

When looking at Current Web style, it outlines the design features that great sites share as: simple layout, center orientation, soft or neutral background colors, presence of white space as well as the use of big text; also, the sparse use of 3D effects, strong colors, and cute icons. I agree with nearly all these design features. They make the content easy to read, easy to navigate, easy to access, and easy to digest. This is important for web users in our Web 2.0 era, where nearly everything is 'connected.' The best part about current design is the fact that it's useful and it looks good. By spreading out content and injecting some white space, the website stated it was like a breath of fresh air for users.

In designing a website for class, my group decided on a revision of the Bob Marley Foundation's website (here). As far as current design techniques, I would like for our group to spread out the web sites content and keep the horizontal link bar. However, we should orient the content toward the center rather than 'above the fold.' Lastly, we must make good use of icons, the Rastafarian color motif we hope to employ sparingly, and white space to organize and streamline our site.