Web Undesign

In a recent Graphics International article, Liz Bailey writes about Undesign and the emerging trend of simplicity in web design (via Jason Kottke).

The new, uniquely online aesthetic - termed ‘undesign’ by some after Tibor Kalman - isn’t so much about utilitarian minimalism as usability, reductionism and subtlety. According to Justin Kirby of viral marketing specialist Digital Media Communications Ltd, “The web has finally found its voice. Design has become a way of bringing content out, not an excuse for lack of content.” He sees undesign as a backlash against overdesigned visual language on the web: designers from print, video games, contemporary music or street fashion whom he accuses of ” ? not understanding the craft of information design”.

When it soon emerges, Web Simple will aim to be a starting point for just these types of sites. The first several Web Simple features have already been selected, but I’m always accepting submissions. While all sites are welcome, I’m much more interested in commercial sites than personal sites. Email submissions to simple at this domain.

Update: The Web Simple project is over.