Web design is a branch of graphic design with its own set of requirements. It involves not only the choice of colors and visual language but also considerations specific to the online environment: usability, information hierarchy, and adaptation to different screen sizes through responsive design. To achieve a successful result, you need creativity, solid skills, and a clear working method. Below, we outline the approach we use to create a custom web design.
1. Understanding the Client’s Objectives
The first step is to listen carefully to the client. They need to describe what they want to accomplish with the website, the audience they wish to reach, and how they envision the design. Sometimes the information provided is incomplete or even contradictory. In those cases, it’s essential to ask questions and clarify everything upfront to avoid spending hours on revisions later.
2. Content Review
Based on the materials the client provides, we assess what resources will be available for the site. Understanding which sections are needed, and what types and volumes of images, text, video, or other content will be used, helps us plan a design that suits the project. A common mistake is creating layouts with large full-screen photos when the client’s images are not suitable for that format.
3. Competitor Analysis
We study the websites of direct and indirect competitors to see which colors, layouts, visual styles, and functionalities are being used. With this context and the client’s briefing, we decide whether to design something similar to industry standards, something familiar but distinctive, or something entirely different. Often, a balanced approach works best—for instance, an all-black background for a dentist’s site would certainly stand out but might not be appropriate.
4. Assessing the Logo
This is a crucial question: do we have a logo? The logo is the foundation of the brand identity and should be prominently and harmoniously integrated into the site. If the client already has a logo, it’s advisable to design the website around its colors, typography, and style elements. If the logo looks outdated or does not align with the brand’s message, the most honest recommendation is to propose a redesign. While it’s ideal to start from scratch for a new business, sometimes an updated logo is necessary for a cohesive online presence.
5. Defining the Visual Language
Next, we establish the website’s visual language: the main typefaces (ideally using a single font family or a cohesive combination), iconography, and color palette. These elements create consistency and reinforce the brand’s identity across all pages.
6. Information Architecture and Visual Hierarchy
Determining the importance of each type of content helps shape the user experience and supports SEO. Structuring headings (H1, H2, H3) correctly guides visitors through the site and signals to search engines what content matters most.
7. Balancing Visual Appeal and Functionality
Design and function can sometimes conflict. A visually striking feature may hurt usability or SEO. For example, Parallax effects look impressive but can negatively impact search visibility. We recommend never compromising core aspects like SEO optimization and responsive design. Within those boundaries, creativity can flourish without undermining results.
These are the main steps we follow when developing a custom web design at La Teva Web. We hope this overview has been helpful. Feel free to explore our portfolio and see how we put these principles into practice.