Modern UI design trends come and go every year.
Many of them are mere fads that quickly fall out of favor. Others stick around long enough to leave a trace in the mainstream terrain. Then, there are those trends that become gold standards and reshape the design landscape for good.
It goes without saying designers have to focus on what really works and forget about the rest. Figuring out priorities can be a challenge in practice, which is why we’ve compiled this guide.
It contains a list of trends to watch out for in 2020.
Animated Illustrations
Illustrations have been around for some time.
But, animated solutions are a fairly new development. They breathe life in static UX and infuse it with a human touch. Namely, implementing motion makes illustrations pop out on the screen and spark attention right away.
Users are more likely to take notice and actually interact with the digital environment. Digital product design is an area where animations of this sort can be a real game-changer. But, they can also be a means of compelling brand storytelling.
3D Graphics
Along similar lines we have 3D graphics, another paragon of visual flair.
They’ve taken modern media by the storm, emerging in everything from movies to street ads. They’ve also made waves in two major design areas: mobile and web UI. The stage for 3D graphics has been set by user preferences and advanced web browsing technology.
Of course, creating and integrating these eye-catching elements is a lot of work. It also requires a set of polished skills. Nevertheless, 3D graphics, such as 360-degree product presentations, can pay dividends when done right.
Unique Microinteractions
Microinteractions are the bread and butter of many apps/websites of today.
They are a prime illustration of how small details can make a huge difference. You could say they give virtual real estate that much-needed lived-in feeling. Perhaps one of the most well-known examples is Facebook’s like button.
The ultimate trick is to micro-interactions blend seamlessly with the broader UI backdrop. Also, notice users expect us to deliver ever more innovative and engaging micro-interactions.
We think it’s safe to say they aren’t going anywhere in 2020 and beyond.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Last year was a big one for VR.
Much of the buzz spilled over to 2020. More importantly, we see tremendous potential in this technology. VR headsets are getting better by the day and they’ve already rocked the gaming industry.
Facebook’s Oculus Quest will soon introduce controller-free hands tracking. This experimental solution could set the pace for innovation in the following months and years.
And when the next generation of consoles arrives during the holiday season, we’re going to reach new heights. The explosive growth of VR is just a matter of time.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Another trend showing us where the market is headed is AR.
It was perhaps even faster than VR to conquer sectors beyond gaming. Many claim it’s poised to revolutionize UX as we know it. The claim rings true considering it blurs the lines between digital and physical environments.
It’s certainly no surprise tech giants are spending millions on AR development. Apple, for instance, has developed its own AR toolkit designers can use. So, professionals who seek to gain an edge need to familiarize themselves with the new tool and concepts.
The future will be irresistibly bright and interactive.
Asymmetrical Layouts
Symmetry has long been the anchor of good design.
A lot has changed in recent years though. Asymmetric layouts have shown incredible resilience and many designers of today swear by them. They realize asymmetry can help convey unique character and personality.
What is more, these layouts unlock an unlimited spectrum of creative freedom. The tradition rooted in template-based and block layouts is slowly dying away. It’s high time to leave it behind and supercharge the UX/UI design.
Experiment with the placement of core design elements and get it down to fine art.
Narrative Design
Evoking emotion via sensory input is one of the most effective design tricks of all.
Yet, it’s not the end-all-be-all of UX/UI. Apart from powerful tools and technologies, we have to rely on storytelling techniques from centuries past. We’re talking about meaningful narratives that can outshine mere visual appeal.
For instance, let persuasive messages (copy) take center stage on landing/homepages to make an impact on the users. Take a stance, explain who you are, and show you care about people. Make your values and missions ooze from the screen.
Empty Space
Empty space, also known as negative space, is one of the defining UX UI trends 2020.
It’s much more than some wasted space: it helps designers put together visually balanced and user-friendly environments. You can think of it as an embodiment of the less-is-more design philosophy.
Therefore, make sure your UI objects and other elements and engulfed in emptiness. This space doesn’t have to be white, which has been the norm in print media.
Likewise, pay close attention to line spacing to boost readability. Get the contrast right and you’ll work wonders for user engagement.
Soothing Color Palette
Bold colors have had a good run in UX and UI.
However, we now seem to be gravitating more toward understated and natural tones. They communicate optimism without being heavy-handed. Going easy on the eyes, they subtly invite people to cheer up.
An additional benefit is they prevent strain and fatigue.
But, this isn’t to say all your colors should be subdued. It often pays off to add a few strokes of brighter tones. They keep things fresh and more interesting.
It’s all about achieving a fine balance and harmony on those beautiful modern screens.
Embrace Modern UI Design Trends and Step Up
Staying abreast of modern UI design trends holds the key to success.
Ones we showcased are here to stay and define the way we go about bringing UX and UI to life. You want to be at the frontier of innovation, which is a way to the forefront of the industry.
So, make things more engaging, personal, unique, and interactive. Turn it up a notch with astonishing animations and graphics. Draw people in with amazing storytelling and add value to their lives.
A blend of sublime visuals, meaningful messages, and prime usability is a winning combo.
Keep up with our tech news to discover more tips that can help you push the boundaries in 2020.
