Summary

Bento Design is emerging as a significant web UI trend in 2023, characterized by a compartmentalized interface inspired by Japanese bento boxes.

Abstract

The article discusses the evolution of UI design trends, noting the shift from Skeuomorphism to Material Design and Flat Design over the past decade. It highlights Apple's historical influence on these trends, from Steve Jobs' Skeuomorphic vision to the introduction of Flat Design with iOS 7. The focus then shifts to Bento Design, a modern approach that organizes UI elements into distinct compartments, each with a specific role, to enhance navigation and user experience. The principles of Bento Design include compartmentalization, hierarchy, simplicity, and accessibility. Advantages of this design trend include improved user experience, potentially higher conversion rates, and greater customization possibilities, as demonstrated by the website Bento.me.

Opinions

The author is enthusiastic about staying updated with emerging UI design trends.
Apple is recognized as a leader in shaping web trends and UI design evolution.
Skeuomorphism, Material Design, and Flat Design are acknowledged as previous influential trends in UI design.
Bento Design is presented as a fresh and innovative trend capable of rejuvenating interfaces.
The author suggests that Bento Design can make navigation more intuitive and facilitate access to information.
Bento Design is not seen as a universal solution but rather as a trend that should be considered based on specific project and user needs.
The author recommends Bento.me as a resource for those interested in exploring and implementing Bento Design in their projects.

The Best Web UI Trend of 2023 : Bento Design ?

Every year, UI design trends evolve, codes shift, and interfaces transform. Often, the most skilled and experienced UI designers are the driving force behind these changes. As a passionate individual in this field, I strive to stay informed about emerging trends through regular updates. Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed a transition from Skeuomorphism to Material Design and Flat Design.

If there’s one company renowned for leading the charge in shaping new web trends, it’s Apple. Since the 1980s, Apple’s founder, Steve Jobs, envisioned creating digital interfaces through Skeuomorphism — replicating realistic designs within interfaces to make the transition to the digital era more intuitive.

The unveiling of the first iPhone on January 9, 2007, marked a milestone in UI design trends. Everyone remembers the iconic iOS home screen. Over the years, Apple continued to innovate the creation and design of interfaces.

In 2013, with the release of iOS 7, Apple embraced simplicity, giving birth to Flat Design. Today, the majority of applications draw inspiration from Flat Design to offer clear and intuitive interfaces. Google, for instance, took inspiration from this trend to create another web trend: Material Design.

But today, I want to divert from these well-known trends and introduce you to a new, innovative, and modern trend that can breathe new life into your interfaces and future projects: Bento Design.

1. What is Bento Design?

If you’ve followed Apple’s conferences for updates on their devices, you’ve likely seen excellent examples of Bento Design.

Bento Design, by Apple’s presentation of Iphone 14

The concept is simple: inspired by Japanese bento boxes, this design proposes a compartmentalized organization of the user interface. Each “compartment” has a well-defined role, facilitating navigation and access to information.

2. What are the Basic Principles?

Compartmentalization: Each screen section is dedicated to a specific type of information or functionality.

Hierarchy: Important elements are emphasized through size or placement.

Simplicity: The design aims to be simple and clean, focusing on essentials.

Accessibility: The interface should be easily usable across various devices and platforms.

3. What are the Advantages of Bento Design?

Bento.me, permits to create your own bento website

Enhanced User Experience

Bento design can simplify navigation and make the experience more enjoyable. If users quickly find what they’re looking for, they are more likely to stay on your site or application.

Potentially Higher Conversion Rates

An intuitive and well-organized design can reduce bounce rates and encourage users to take desired actions, whether it’s making a purchase, signing up, or other interactions.

Customization Possibilities

This design type allows for adjusting the interface based on user needs and behaviors. Bento design can contribute to creating a more personalized experience.

If you want to delve deeper into this trend, try this site: Bento.me. It allows you to create your own portfolio through a Bento in a few clicks, with no code. Your link will be entirely responsive, providing an original way to present yourself to a client or potential employer. It can catalog all your social media profiles and projects.

Bento design is an intriguing option in the diverse universe of UX design. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution but can offer a clear and intuitive organization that facilitates user interaction with your interface. Like any UX trend, it deserves consideration based on your specific needs and those of your audience.