With the new year come new web design trends. Every year we see new ideas. Some are completely new, while others are trends that have been around for a few years but are still going strong. Websites with modern, well-designed layouts can increase user engagement by up to 70%, demonstrating that good design is more than just aesthetics.
That is why web design trends matter. We check the topic with London web designer to see what is working in the industry and how websites can stand out. Keeping an eye on trends helps designers and business owners create websites that feel modern and exciting.
Let’s take a look at some of the web design trends for 2026.
AI-generated design
Artificial intelligence is changing how websites are made. In 2026, more tools will help with:
- Personalized websites that change based on how users behave
- Automatic design creation, where AI builds parts of a website from simple text
- Better user experience, as AI predicts what users need and adjusts the design
The biggest advantage is saving time. Designers can focus on ideas and planning, while AI does the repetitive work.
Dynamic layouts
Static websites are being replaced by layouts that can change and adapt to:
- Different devices and screen sizes
- User preferences
- How and where the website is used
- The content that is available
In 2026, websites will feel more alive and responsive, not fixed and static. This works well for websites that want to feel modern, flexibleand focused on users.
No-code and low-code websites
- In 2026, more tools will allow people to build websites without coding:
- Simple visual editors that are easy to use
- Better connections to external tools and services
- More design options without writing code
This makes web design easier for everyone. Small businesses and individuals can create professional websites without needing a developer. For many projects, no-code tools are a simple and affordable option instead of custom development. No-code tools are perfect for small businesses and startups.
Dopamine colours
Bold, bright colours are becoming a big trend in web design. They help websites feel fun, positive and full of energy. In 2026, designers will use these colours even more to create strong emotional reactions.
• Bright colours like neon pink, electric blue, and bold red bring joy and optimism to websites
• These colours help brands show confidence, energy and personality
• Strong gradients, colourful overlays and bold text make websites more engaging
This style is not right for every brand, but when it fits, it can make a website easy to remember. Using different colours for sections, headings and buttons helps grab attention and this playful, vibrant style is especially loved by Gen Z.
Motion design and microinteractions
This web design trend has been around for a while. Animation is becoming a key part of websites. Small movements, or micro-interactions, help users know what to click, give feedback, and make the site feel easier to use. Animation is now about helping people, not just looking fancy.
• Subtle hover effects, button changes and smooth page transitions make using a site more fun
• Adding layers and light 3D motion gives depth without slowing anything down
These little movements make a site feel alive and playful. When done well, these small details feel natural, even if users do not notice them right away.
Minimalism and maximalism
Minimalism and maximalism are both growing in web design and sometimes they even appear together. Instead of picking one style, designers are exploring both extremes to make websites stand out in 2026.
• Minimalist design uses clean layouts, lots of white space, and simple visuals to focus attention on important elements like text, products or buttons
• Maximalist design goes bold with bright colours, layered images, patternsand eye-catching graphics to create energy and personality
Combining the two can create a unique balance where clarity meets creativity. The goal is to find the right balance so the design feels bold but not too busy.
Split-screen layouts
Split-screen layouts are becoming more popular as designers look for ways to show multiple ideas at once. In 2026, websites will use this style to highlight content or visuals side by side.
• Pages are divided into two or more sections to show different content at the same time
• Helps users focus on multiple messages without scrolling too much
• Works well for storytelling, portfolios, or product showcases
This style is perfect for creative brands or websites that want to present several ideas clearly and attractively.
Sustainability-focused design
Some companies are paying more attention to the environment and want websites that are more sustainable.
• Smaller file sizes and optimised images make pages load faster
• Cleaner code and simpler layouts save energy
• Faster websites improve user experience and help SEO
• Eco-friendly hosting is becoming more common
This trend is perfect for brands that care about the environment and want websites that are sustainable and fast.
Conclusion – web design trends 2026
It is important to remember that not all new trends last for years. If you are creating a new website, it’s good to get inspired by trends, but don’t follow them blindly.Some trends might not stick and your site could end up looking outdated quickly.
