Even the glassy look is starting to get old because of its overuse. I personally prefer the clean, simple layouts, such as http://www.haveamint.com

It’s ugly, I know. But hey, I’m not *really* a designer per se…

Alex, Mass Mailings was well ahead of its time there. :)

I really hope we don’t see these paper effects used ad naseum… I personally prefer the clean, simple layouts, such as Have a Mint.

Isn’t that a report on a sheet of paper poking out at an angle to the left?

Personally I like ‘analogue’ effects on web design, as it makes sites look more real. A web application that we’re currently working on is designed to be used for large amounts of time, so it’s design reflects a friendly, familiar real-world working environment, for example by use of handwriting on Post-it notes as navigation, and lifelike highlighting inspired by the main navigation on Lisa’s site.

If it’s relevant to the site, I think it’s a good trend. Relevence is key - I can’t stand sites which look wrong for their market.

If it’s relevant to the site, I think it’s a good trend.

A great quote. I’d like to add “if it’s relevant to the audience” too.

thanks for the links

No problem.

plastikfantastik

I think the analog design can certainly add a sense of dimension to a page. If it is used in the right way (ex: to simulate a newsletter, stationary, etc.)

It should make the user feel more comfortable viewing materials online that would otherwise be print.

A couple of examples that have caught my eye:

http://ourcommon.com/ - for stationery effects (via hicksdesign) and

http://www.constructiondurable.com/ - for a flash based paperclip.

Fun stuff.

David