Characteristics and advantages of minimalist web design
What is a minimalist web design?
Minimalist websites are those that have a simple and clean design, where priority is given to the most essential content. The content is carefully chosen, and placed on the page directly and clearly.
Minimalist design has no redundant elements and enhances user experience while browsing the web page, as they are informed quickly and without being distracted.
The two mottos that fit minimalism are "Less is more" and "Simplicity is the key".
Features of minimalist web design
Minimalist designs are characterised by a limited number of elements on the page, and are seen as a positive trend for both developers and users. The features that distinguish minimalist sites from other sites are:
Limited features and characteristics
Minimalist websites have few elements incorporated in them, such as images, graphics, gradients, icons, lines, colors, etc.
These elements are carefully selected to support the main features and messaging of the site.
Plenty of empty space
The few elements of the interface, necessarily leave empty space. Such a space helps visitors to easily read the information presented to them.
Limited colour palette
In most minimalist interfaces, colours are used strategically to create visual interest or direct the attention of visitors.
Minimalist designs usually have one main colour, which stands out immediately. This color is specifically chosen to highlight the most important elements on the page.
Striking typography
Typography has to do with the style, size and appearance of text. To compensate for the lack of photos and graphics, minimalist designs use large fonts for important messages.
Differentiations in font size, color, and style become essential to help users understand the hierarchy and importance of text on your page.
Benefits of minimalist web design
Minimalist design brings some positive effects to a website, such as:
Focus goes to the content
Minimalism makes it easy to read and understand content, as users do not need to spend extra time processing too many details in order to extract essential information.
Makes navigation easier and faster
One of the goals of minimalist design is to help users complete their actions as quickly and efficiently as possible. The less busy a design is, the easier it will be for visitors to navigate it.
It does not tire users
The abundance of empty space and absence of unnecessary elements make the eyes of visitors immediately focus on the main information. This keeps them on your site, without feeling tired or annoyed.
Has a lifelong style
Web design styles and trends change constantly, but a minimalist design stands the test of time thanks to the aforementioned features that characterise it.
Minimalist design started as a discipline in the late 20th century, and has since become the most widespread and long-lasting style of design.
Is SEO-friendly
Minimalist web design helps SEO because it allows search engines to more easily understand the content of your site. Also, pages with minimalist design open faster as they have few elements. This combination brings better results for your site in search engine rankings.
Things to keep in mind when choosing a minimalist design
If the principles of minimalist design are not applied properly, it can bring unwanted results, like making your website appear unfinished or with insufficient information.
If your company is growing, you will most likely want to add more content and functionality to your website in the future. Therefore, having a minimalist web design is a decision that needs to be thought carefully, as if you later add a large amount of information and new components, your website's design may no longer be minimalist.
Keep in mind that sometimes it takes more time to develop minimalist interfaces, especially when dealing with large and complex projects. This happens because simplifying complex concepts actually requires more thought and planning than usual.
Summary
An interface with a minimalist design has a simple and clean layout, which users enjoy to navigate. It contains only the information that is considered essential, allowing users to easily scan it.
If the principles of minimalist web design are followed correctly, it can significantly improve the visitors' experience on your site, setting you apart from other sites.
