The Biggest, Boldest Web Design Trends of 2024—So Far

At the end of 2023, we predicted that the new year in web design would reflect emerging technology by both leaning into it and pulling back. And 2024 delivered.

We've seen a maximalist design approach solidify its place on our screens, with users continuing to merge traditional web design principles with Y2K design and early web nostalgia in search of more differentiation. But there's also a return to more handmade elements and "anti-design" minimalism that signals a push against the wave of AI-generated content inundating our screens.

Here's a breakdown of 2024's top web design trends, and how you can incorporate them into your own site.

1. Hyperreality

Hyperreality blurs the boundary between reality and simulation, making the simulated version feel more real or impactful than the actual experience. We're seeing this more than ever, largely due to the rise of AI — but AI is just one factor. Designers and creators are constantly pushing the limits of what's possible, both online and in real life, through immersive animations, surreal overlays, and unexpected interactive elements.

Tap into the trend:

• Interactive 3D elements — incorporate clickable objects that change state or appearance with each interaction.
• Surreal animations — use overlays or dynamically changing backgrounds to foster a sense of immersion.
• Unexpected design features — integrate playful, surprising elements like warped video or animated features.

2. A Human Touch

Some designers are adding warmth and humanity to the digital world through handmade illustrations and handwriting fonts. Bespoke visuals featuring unique, imperfect lines and organic textures stand in stark contrast to the polished perfection of everyday digital graphics, making sites feel more approachable and relatable.

Tap into the trend:

• Handmade illustrations — incorporate hand-drawn illustrations with visible textures in hero images, icons, or backgrounds.
• Script lettering — pair handmade illustrations with script fonts for headings or key text elements.
• Subtle gradients and depth — add gradients to illustrations for a more dynamic, layered look.

3. Elevated Brutalism

Web brutalism has been around for years, but 2024 saw a more refined version emerge — combining the raw, minimalist principles of brutalism with sophisticated aesthetics: high-end photography paired with utilitarian typography and visible grid lines.

Tap into the trend:

• Less is more — stick to a minimal color palette, such as black, white, and one bold accent color.
• Get creative within constraints — amplify the impact of system fonts by increasing their size for bold, striking typography.
• Elevate utilitarianism with high-impact photography to add emotional depth and visual appeal.

4. Interactive Whimsy

Adding moments of playfulness to websites has become essential. Sites that incorporate unexpected motion, playful scrolling, or hover effects can engage viewers without overwhelming them with excessive animation.

Tap into the trend:

• Use subtle animations — scrolling effects or gentle hover actions add interactivity without overwhelming visitors.
• Neutral base — use neutral base colors like whites, grays, and beiges so interactive elements stand out.
• Bold display fonts — use bold display fonts for headlines and key text to make a strong visual impact.

5. Digital Sustainability

Digital sustainability isn't tied to a specific aesthetic but rather a set of practices aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the digital work you create. The internet and its supporting infrastructure account for roughly 3.7% of global emissions — comparable to the aviation industry. Simplifying code, reducing HTTP requests, and optimizing images for faster load times all reduce energy use, and many of these practices also improve accessibility.

Tap into the trend:

• Use energy-efficient fonts — opt for system fonts or variable fonts instead of custom web fonts to reduce HTTP requests and improve load times.
• Opt for dark mode — darker pixels consume less energy on OLED screens and can enhance accessibility for users with visual impairments.
• Test your design — run your site through a carbon-footprint calculator, ensure it uses green hosting, and confirm it loads efficiently and is accessible to all users.

Bringing These Trends Together

The strongest 2024 web design isn't chasing every trend at once — it's choosing the ones that fit your brand and using them with intention. Whether that's a touch of hyperreal interactivity, a more human illustration style, or a faster, greener build, the goal is the same: a site that feels current, loads fast, and converts visitors into customers.