Everything comes full circle, even web design. You might not have noticed it yet, but there’s a brand new trend in town, and its name is flat web design. It’s capturing the industry, and the thing is it’s really been around since Microsoft introduced it in 2006.
So what is it that makes a “flat” web design?
Flat design is simply a design devoid of drop shadows, gradients, and textures that have ruled web design for a few years now. Flat design employs brighter, solid colors and a lot of “white space”. Typography often figures noticeably into flat design.
Why the rebellion from 3D to flat design?
There are several reasons why this is taking place, but possibly the most compelling reason is that it’s an invention born out of necessity. The 2D environment that designers often have to work in, in this ever-more mobile world, necessitates economy of scale.
It’s become more and more difficult to cram all you might want onto a 4-inch screen, making a 3D simulation somewhat counterproductive and incompatible with a great user experience. Having a flat design pages load faster, are less bulky and are more responsive. In a competitive world in which you have a few short seconds to win over and hook your visitors, every second counts.
Trend or is flat web design here to stay?
The jury is still out on that, but suffice it to say that if it is a trend, elements of it may be hard to dismiss quickly. Apple is rumored to be considering a flat design for the next operating system, the iOS7. If it does turn out to be a fad, the simplicity and user-friendly functionality of flat web design might give it a lengthier shelf life than you might think!
