Welcome to our annual roundup of web design trends for 2021—a guide to help you stay ahead of the curve.
Use this article as inspiration for your next web project. We won’t spoil the trends just yet; instead, dive into the piece we’ve carefully crafted for you.
Throughout this article, we’ll explore all the key web design trends for 2021, highlight their unique features, share practical tips, discuss the results you can expect, and wrap up each trend with three real-world examples that showcase these concepts in action.
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From flat design to motion UI: check out the 2026 web trends that are transforming the digital experience.
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Web design trends for 2021, let’s go
Asymmetric web design
For years, web design has relied on grid-based layouts that make content clear and easy to navigate. The downside? Sites often lack personality.
That’s why one of 2021’s standout trends is asymmetric web design.
This approach finally breaks free from the overuse of generic templates and paid themes that lack character.
The challenge for designers is to ensure that an asymmetric layout still feels balanced and that information remains accessible.
How and when to use it
Apply this trend to websites that:
- Need a highly visual, impactful design
- Aren’t targeting a very conservative audience
- Want to stand out and make a bold impression
Keep in mind:
- No matter the layout, users are naturally drawn to large elements.
- User testing is essential to ensure your design works and information isn’t lost.
- Some clients may be hesitant about this style, so be prepared to sell the concept well.
Websites embracing the trend
Aebele Interiors by EXO APE
This site is a great example of asymmetric design. Elements appear at different times, move at varying speeds, and are placed off-center for a dynamic effect.
M-trust Co by Lic Inc
Another example where elements are neither horizontally nor vertically aligned, yet the overall composition is striking.
The result is an innovative design that grabs your attention and keeps you engaged.
The araw collection by Zhenya Rynzhuk
Once again, an asymmetric layout breaks away from the traditional grid, resulting in a site that feels more dynamic and daring.
WOW! The new post on the best web designs of 2019-2020 is out! Check it out now!
Combined scrolling
Dynamic, intuitive navigation is a must for 2021. Expect to see more sites where scrolling is central to the user journey.
Vertical scrolling paired with horizontal navigation is becoming standard in comprehensive web designs that embrace all dimensions.
This technique lets users explore different sections interactively, giving the site a narrative flow.
The result is a richer user experience, reinforcing the idea of storytelling with a journey that feels endless.
How and when to use it
Apply this trend to websites that:
- Want to enhance UX
- Seek to stand out and make a memorable impression
- Are committed to staying ahead in web design trends
Keep in mind:
- Use vertical scrolling only when it adds value.
- The design must be carefully planned so combined scrolling doesn’t hinder navigation.
- Combining scroll types requires advanced design and development skills.
Websites embracing the trend
Dwl Media by
A great example of vertical scrolling with horizontally presented content.
The result is highly dynamic and fresh.
Ussr Obys Agency by
Another fantastic example where vertical scrolling, controlled by the mouse wheel, guides users through the site.
The outcome is a web design that feels fresh and lively.
Tiger Tells by
The best example of combined scrolling—a web design and development where this trend is perfectly executed for 2021.
Super Burger Menu
One of the ongoing trends in web design is the fullscreen burger menu, which brings an app-like feel to websites.
This will definitely be a trendsetter in 2021, blending large typography with the burger menu concept.
With fullscreen menus, the line between desktop and mobile web design blurs, giving users the sense of browsing on a portable device at all times.
When paired with a well-structured site, this feature greatly enhances navigation, improves UX, and boosts engagement.
How and when to use it
Apply this trend to websites that:
- Want an app-like design
- Have a limited or clearly defined number of sections
- Want to make a strong first impression
Keep in mind:
- The site architecture must be crystal clear for this to work.
- An app-like design is key for great UX, so make sure your client understands its value.
- You can go further by adding extra content to the open menu, such as footer info.
Websites embracing the trend
Evolution Deposit Photos
Depositphotos showcases a fullscreen burger menu with plenty of options.
Check out how they use the space to display detailed information and streamline navigation.
Black Meal
A standout burger menu that clearly demonstrates this trend, supported by a well-defined site structure.
The result is an app-like web design that feels intuitive and comfortable.
Ripe Planet
Finally, a site that fully embraces the super burger menu, using the space to include footer details like social links and direct contact.
The result is a web design reminiscent of a mobile app.
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Organic Shapes
This trend is all about adding graphic elements with organic shapes and moving away from sharp angles. The result is a website that feels more natural and approachable.
Organic shapes in web design for 2021 are meant to create a calming, user-friendly experience, though they can also be used in contrast with bold content.
When used well, the interplay between content and container can give your design and user experience a major boost.
How and when to use it
Apply this trend to websites that:
- Need organic elements to balance out the content
- Aim for a smooth, relaxing user journey
- Want to create a sense of closeness with users
Keep in mind:
- This isn’t for developers lacking creative flair
- It must be well integrated to feel cohesive
- Not every project is suited to this style
Websites embracing the trend
Alessandra Zhanghi by Adoratorio
This site uses organic shapes to create a calm, inviting navigation experience.
The result is exactly as intended—a peaceful journey from start to finish.
Thibaut Foussard
Here, the organic shapes trend is paired with bold, aggressive content for contrast.
You’re left with mixed feelings—a site that doesn’t go unnoticed.
Nahel Moussi
The softest example of this trend, delivering a gentle, relaxing experience as promised.
WOW! The new post on the best web designs of 2019-2020 is out! Check it out now!
3D Content
Web design and development technology keeps getting more powerful. Today’s devices can handle complex 3D elements and even allow users to interact with them.
Add to that ever-increasing bandwidth, and you’re set for immersive 3D web experiences—a trend that’s only going to grow in 2021.
The result? Cutting-edge, innovative websites that elevate a brand’s digital presence.
How and when to use it
Apply this trend to websites that:
- Need a highly visual, impactful design
- Are aimed at audiences eager for the latest in web design and development
- Want to stand out and make a bold impression
Keep in mind:
- This isn’t for developers with only intermediate coding skills
- Poor execution can backfire
- Some clients may be hesitant about this style, so be ready to pitch it well
Websites embracing the trend
Virgin Hyperloop
A design featuring interactive 3D elements for a truly innovative experience.
Centogene Solutions by Marvin Schwaibold
Here, 3D elements take center stage, showing the impact of this trend in 2021.
You’re left with the impression of a truly innovative company.
VCSwipe by Marvin Schwaibold
Another strong example of this trend, where 3D graphics support and enhance the site’s content.
The result is a well-executed web design powered by 3D elements.
Artificial Intelligence
Let’s be honest—AI is still in its infancy, just learning to walk. But that doesn’t mean we should overlook the power of machine learning to create compelling user experiences.
We’re starting to see the first attempts to integrate this powerful technology into web design, and it’s a trend that will gradually become more prominent.
How and when to use it
Apply this trend to websites that:
- Want to experiment with artificial intelligence
- Aren’t targeting a very conservative audience
- Want to surprise users with an innovative web experience
Keep in mind:
- Design and development will be complex
- This isn’t for every audience or every creator
- For now, experiences will be AI-inspired, but true AI is still out of reach due to current limitations