THE BEST
As I was going through the 30 Outstanding Single pages @ http://www.webdesigndev.com/inspiration/30-outstanding-single-page-website-designs, I found some interesting layouts that need special mention before going over my favorite site. One of them was the Fish Marketing which I came to appreciate for its concept and slide show presentation. Another one that I found interesting was Think Green, where every element of its design was well-thought, from the color palette to the text block divisions cleverly animated. However, when it comes to the best out of these 30 websites, I chose the Deluge Studios, a site that stands out for its simplicity, easy navigation and accessibility. Deluge is a design company that provides web, interactive as well as print services. In its one page layout, the designers present a slide portfolio below the navigation bar in Our Work area. On the Right a standalone gray column describes the company’s background and their work process. The color choices are green and different gradients of stone gray. The subtlety of its earthy colors suggests the wash away concept of the company’s name; which directs the viewer’s eyes to the good art work and relevant information. Everything seems to be a click away. I tried my two favorite sites in different platforms with standard screen size, Deluge appears to display better in both systems. It does not have long scroll downs to hassle with, and there is always a back to top button that brings you home. On the very top there is also an etc sub menu that opens down a list of links to very interesting sites and news, and at the bottom of the page you will also find a cool flash version of the site. All these components make its accessibility a plus and DelugeStudio a successful design.
THE WORST
From all the sites I struggled with Stoodeo was the most painful. I won’t take away the artist skills for illustration which is ok, but where is everything else? It must be a very Avant-garde style for an obscure secular clientele. There is not Company information, no samples of her work (with the exception of the work in progress site), no artist biography, or e-mail. If the site is still being built it needs an apology statement somewhere at least. The design is completely centered and heavily weighted on the top. Discretion and secrecy seem to be guaranteed with her service, it sounds more as the nature of other type of business, although the only site she is currently working on is a religious theme. Don’t get me wrong, based on the colors used, and illustrations she seems to be e very sweet girl but her slogan and statement are conflicting. All this can be easily improve by adding some sidebars and a navigation system, the good thing is that at least she has a style.
Another on the list: Jiri Tvrdek and the scrolling up and down tree.
With all due respect.
Oskar
