Five Web Trends To Watch In 2013

Mark down 2012 as the year the web went SoLoMo (Social, Local and Mobile). Mobile services, social platforms and the addition of local entries to search engine results strongly influenced the web and its development last year.

Web design is based as much on available web technologies as how users like to interact with the Internet. So, in 2013, expect web development to go a step further. Design will begin to automatically adapt to the latest devices, enhancing overall appearance to access even smarter versions of last year’s smart phones and tablets.

Below are a few trends to expect from tomorrow’s web:

Responsive Web Design

Responsive Web Design (RWD) was already trendy in 2012, but in 2013, designers will make their designs more compatible with various display sizes. According to one tech observer, “a responsive web design uses ‘media queries’ to figure out what resolution of device it’s being served on.” In the next year, expect mobile apps, even web banners, to become more responsive.

Parallax Scrolling

Parallax scrolling is a visual effect produced by two superimposed layers, each of which moves at different speeds. For stunning examples of parallax scrolling, check out TEDxGUC, Dangersoffracking and Lore. Expect this style element to really take off in the next year.

More Images, Less Text

Information is no longer represented using text alone. In 2013, the need for captivating photos will be more clear than ever.  In addition to pictures, infographics and illustrations will become more popular, if not commonplace. Don’t believe us? Check out Readwrite, Monocleand Studionudge.

Single Page Web design

Closely connected to parallax scrolling is another style element that could be one of the hottest web design trends in 2013: Single Page Design. Websites that can do with limited content and design elements are ideal for single page design. In addition to the normal vertical scrolling direction, single page designs  can also be set on a horizontal scroll direction. For strong examples, click here, here, here and here.

Typographie

Typography has always  been an important topic in web design. There are many new scripts that can be used for the web. In combination with all of the above trends, especially with icons, illustrations and infographics, typography will play a more important role in web design than before. Check out Gnosh, Justdot, Zurb and The New Yorker to see what we mean.

As the web continues to become more visual, expect larger images, striking typography and parallax scrolling to increase tremendously in 2013.