Seven Unusual Creative Motifs For Your Next Web Design

Rather than the run-of-the-mill designs we normally see, what if your next design came from someplace… unexpected? A brilliantly contrary motif that makes sense in retrospect? Here are our picks for some themes you might not have thought of, but should:

  • Hand drawnExample It always looks brilliantly original, because it’s your own hand! Stick-figures and elementary-school drawings are getting really, really big this year. Try to look as untalented as possible!
  • FactoryExample Industrial designs are great for developers, producers, and artists. It makes the customer anticipate that you’ll have a strong work ethic.
  • Retro ’50sExample Maybe it’s nostalgia, or maybe the classics work best, but we haven’t seen a single web page done in retro that goes wrong. If you readers can, please show us in the comments.
  • SteampunkExample For those who don’t know, “steampunk” is a school of art that takes its inspiration from the era of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne. Think steam engines, dirigibles, clockwork, wind-up robots, and lots of polished brass and tin.
  • PsychedelicExample Another retro trend. While it can quickly get tiresome, it’s an absolute knock-out for music and club themes.
  • IsometricExample There’s way too few isometric themed websites out there, and we’d like to know why. Visitors will never forget you!
  • Two ToneExample It’s the new monochrome! Still minimalist, while presenting a balanced look where one color doesn’t overwhelm you. Pick two colors that go great together and draw everything in that.

Peter Brittain