Comments on: Big, Bold Backgrounds http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/ thoughts on | comments about | examples of } web design trends. Sat, 17 May 2008 02:03:14 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.1.2 By: Chris Papadopoulos http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110154 Chris Papadopoulos Wed, 10 Oct 2007 19:36:37 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110154 I don't have the raw artistic & illustration talent that some have, so making those ornate backgrounds that look great is difficult for me. Personally, I've found that getting rid of background images and making things as simple as possible with a maximum amount of whitespace and <a href="http://informationrain.com/2007/09/26/designing-for-thinness/" rel="nofollow">making the site thin</a> and <a href="http://informationrain.com/2007/09/25/designing-in-your-proverbial-underpants/ rel="nofollow">letting content be the focus</a> works best. I also don't like backgrounds behind text as it can <a href="http://informationrain.com/2007/06/16/how-to-make-text-more-legible/" rel="nofollow">affect legibility</a>. Not dissing ornate backgrounds. Some of those sites, the n.design studio one in particular, look fantastic.   I don’t have the raw artistic & illustration talent that some have, so making those ornate backgrounds that look great is difficult for me. Personally, I’ve found that getting rid of background images and making things as simple as possible with a maximum amount of whitespace and making the site thin and letting content be the focus works best. I also don’t like backgrounds behind text as it can affect legibility. Not dissing ornate backgrounds. Some of those sites, the n.design studio one in particular, look fantastic.  

]]> By: Matthew Sanders http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110171 Matthew Sanders Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:03:42 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110171 I've asked myself the same question many times. Looking back on Joshua's site. I remember thinking that this is the sort of design I wanted to do. I don't think it's much of a load time issue anymore as it is a bandwidth issue. I don't know one person who doesn't have more than 2 - 3 Mbits internet connection and most of these graphics are under  or around 150k.I think that they should start popping up more often. If the client agrees with the cost. Do it.  I’ve asked myself the same question many times. Looking back on Joshua’s site. I remember thinking that this is the sort of design I wanted to do. I don’t think it’s much of a load time issue anymore as it is a bandwidth issue. I don’t know one person who doesn’t have more than 2 - 3 Mbits internet connection and most of these graphics are under  or around 150k.I think that they should start popping up more often. If the client agrees with the cost. Do it. 

]]> By: Andrew Faulkner http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110178 Andrew Faulkner Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:23:09 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110178 <p>"I don’t know one person who doesn’t have more than 2 - 3 Mbits internet connection and most of these graphics are under  or around 150k."</p><p>I think it may be dangerous to assume this.  I know plenty of people still on dialup here in the UK - and we're far from the slowest. As I said in the article though, within the design community designers tend to break there own rules as the assumptions change.</p><p>There is a workaround for slow connections though: </p><p>If you do use a large background image on the body tag, checking that the content is easily viewable (maybe by means of a solid wrapper like on N.Design) before the image has fully loaded will ensure that the site is still usable for those with slower connections. </p> "I don’t know one person who doesn’t have more than 2 - 3 Mbits internet connection and most of these graphics are under  or around 150k."

I think it may be dangerous to assume this.  I know plenty of people still on dialup here in the UK - and we’re far from the slowest. As I said in the article though, within the design community designers tend to break there own rules as the assumptions change.

There is a workaround for slow connections though:

If you do use a large background image on the body tag, checking that the content is easily viewable (maybe by means of a solid wrapper like on N.Design) before the image has fully loaded will ensure that the site is still usable for those with slower connections.

]]> By: Brad http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110187 Brad Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:31:17 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110187 I would go with talent. I was very inspired by Web Designers Wall recently and I tried a big background and failed miserably.  It's tough to pull off because the graphic has to carry the site and it's hard to creat an amazing graphic. Good list. I would go with talent. I was very inspired by Web Designers Wall recently and I tried a big background and failed miserably.  It’s tough to pull off because the graphic has to carry the site and it’s hard to creat an amazing graphic. Good list.

]]> By: Terry Ng http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110300 Terry Ng Wed, 10 Oct 2007 23:02:10 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110300 Nick La is so damn talented!   Props to both his Web Designers Wall and N. Design Studio blogs... amazing. :)  Nick La is so damn talented!   Props to both his Web Designers Wall and N. Design Studio blogs… amazing. :) 

]]> By: Darren http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110438 Darren Thu, 11 Oct 2007 06:55:55 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110438 I put it down to time. It's hard to find the time to design a visual amazing design such as those.  They a\re however my favourite types but time and skill just don't like me too much lol. I put it down to time. It’s hard to find the time to design a visual amazing design such as those.  They a\re however my favourite types but time and skill just don’t like me too much lol.

]]> By: Matt Davies http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110458 Matt Davies Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:20:41 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110458 <p>Love it! I think that a background like these can be extremely effective, but (stern face) we must be careful not to over use them and ensure that they do "add" something to the site in a positive way. By this I mean we don't make the backgrounds more important than the content held within them. What messages does your background send? Why is that important? Will that help you with the sites goals, ect.</p><p> Design with a purpose not for the sake of it... </p> Love it! I think that a background like these can be extremely effective, but (stern face) we must be careful not to over use them and ensure that they do "add" something to the site in a positive way. By this I mean we don’t make the backgrounds more important than the content held within them. What messages does your background send? Why is that important? Will that help you with the sites goals, ect.

Design with a purpose not for the sake of it… 

]]> By: Vesa Virlander http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110467 Vesa Virlander Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:49:26 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110467 I've allways liked backgrounds of the new MTV.com, check them out and hit refresh! I’ve allways liked backgrounds of the new MTV.com, check them out and hit refresh!

]]> By: Phil http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110509 Phil Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:20:29 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110509 I've always liked those sorts of background. Talent is the major drawback though. I would love to have a frame like that to adorn my site, but I just can't do it (though I've tried a little, it's certainly nowhere near the examples you have shown here) and I definitely can't afford to pay someone to do it for me either.It's a tough thing to do, but do it well and your site will be remembered. I’ve always liked those sorts of background. Talent is the major drawback though. I would love to have a frame like that to adorn my site, but I just can’t do it (though I’ve tried a little, it’s certainly nowhere near the examples you have shown here) and I definitely can’t afford to pay someone to do it for me either.It’s a tough thing to do, but do it well and your site will be remembered.

]]> By: MBHayes http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110542 MBHayes Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:20:35 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110542 While you can reach the point of over doing backgrounds... I personally love these backgrounds.  To me... they break all of the sameness of the web up and create a pleasing EXTRA sort of appeal. I guess if the WHOLE OF YOUR FOCUS is the content, great cut the backgrounds... to me the overall VISUAL PRESENTATION is part of the content.  I don't read Sports Illustrated cause the content is so great -- it is -- but it's a combination of the pictures and the content.   Again... tastefulness must be exercised so the background doesn't OVERWHLEM everything.   Sidenote, the WINDOWS OS is bloated and sure I could actually get work done is <strong>DOS</strong> -- but (haven't gone to VISTA yet) I much more enjoy the overall experience of working on a computer using <strong>WINDOWS XP</strong>. While you can reach the point of over doing backgrounds… I personally love these backgrounds.  To me… they break all of the sameness of the web up and create a pleasing EXTRA sort of appeal. I guess if the WHOLE OF YOUR FOCUS is the content, great cut the backgrounds… to me the overall VISUAL PRESENTATION is part of the content.  I don’t read Sports Illustrated cause the content is so great — it is — but it’s a combination of the pictures and the content.   Again… tastefulness must be exercised so the background doesn’t OVERWHLEM everything.   Sidenote, the WINDOWS OS is bloated and sure I could actually get work done is DOS — but (haven’t gone to VISTA yet) I much more enjoy the overall experience of working on a computer using WINDOWS XP.

]]> By: tyGo http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110557 tyGo Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:45:04 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110557 I can dig a big bold background. On one hand you've got minimal, on the other maximalism.Don't  you just love a high-fiber diet sometimes, splash on more  graphic sugar! I can dig a big bold background. On one hand you’ve got minimal, on the other maximalism.Don’t  you just love a high-fiber diet sometimes, splash on more  graphic sugar!

]]> By: Terri Ann http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110561 Terri Ann Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:24:00 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110561 I love the style of these, and other similar sites, with the bold backgrounds.  It really makes the site memorable, but  when you come across a beautiful site and want to show the graphic designer at work cause you think they might like it, how do you Google "rainbow exploding Chinese take-out box website layout" or "header photo Polaroid design." When a site's look/feel stands out that strongly it does make it more memorable, but does it make it easier to remember how to get to it?  Is the site getting lost in the design, not the content, but the site overall identity? I love the style of these, and other similar sites, with the bold backgrounds.  It really makes the site memorable, but  when you come across a beautiful site and want to show the graphic designer at work cause you think they might like it, how do you Google "rainbow exploding Chinese take-out box website layout" or "header photo Polaroid design." When a site’s look/feel stands out that strongly it does make it more memorable, but does it make it easier to remember how to get to it?  Is the site getting lost in the design, not the content, but the site overall identity?

]]> By: Marcello http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110657 Marcello Thu, 11 Oct 2007 17:44:03 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110657 The statistics I've seen suggest that around 70 to 80% of internet users in the United States have broadband connections. If that's your target market, then go ahead and splurge on a big, beautiful background...But that's still 20 to 30% of your potential audience that might get frustrated with your site. That's a pretty significant number, especially for a consumer-oriented site. If you're trying to reach an international audience, that number could be much higher. And even broadband users might not want to wait for a 200K image -- people are *very* impatient these days!Personally, I design my sites primarily for functionality. I try to get the content to the consumer as quickly and easily as possible. Aesthetics are important of course, but for me the drawbacks of a massive background image outweigh the advantages.  The statistics I’ve seen suggest that around 70 to 80% of internet users in the United States have broadband connections. If that’s your target market, then go ahead and splurge on a big, beautiful background…But that’s still 20 to 30% of your potential audience that might get frustrated with your site. That’s a pretty significant number, especially for a consumer-oriented site. If you’re trying to reach an international audience, that number could be much higher. And even broadband users might not want to wait for a 200K image — people are *very* impatient these days!Personally, I design my sites primarily for functionality. I try to get the content to the consumer as quickly and easily as possible. Aesthetics are important of course, but for me the drawbacks of a massive background image outweigh the advantages. 

]]> By: Devin Reams http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110663 Devin Reams Thu, 11 Oct 2007 18:21:21 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-110663 I definitely think its a lack of skills. If I could build something as beautiful as some of those I would spend the hours doing it......then again, I don't have many spare hours for my website. :\ I definitely think its a lack of skills. If I could build something as beautiful as some of those I would spend the hours doing it……then again, I don’t have many spare hours for my website. :\

]]> By: Jake Nickell http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111118 Jake Nickell Fri, 12 Oct 2007 03:50:28 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111118 http://www.mtv.com/ MTV's latest website uses it, that's pretty mainstream...         http://www.mtv.com/ MTV’s latest website uses it, that’s pretty mainstream…        

]]> By: Andrew Faulkner http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111370 Andrew Faulkner Fri, 12 Oct 2007 07:50:44 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111370 Thanks for pointing out MTV. (UK folks, hit the US version to see it.) Thanks for pointing out MTV. (UK folks, hit the US version to see it.)

]]> By: goetsu http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111425 goetsu Fri, 12 Oct 2007 09:11:43 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111425 on my own blog, I use it not for header but for the footer :http://www.fairytells.net  on my own blog, I use it not for header but for the footer :http://www.fairytells.net 

]]> By: justsayin http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111540 justsayin Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:27:47 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111540 here's <a href="http://daytimellp.com/" rel="nofollow">one more</a> here’s one more

]]> By: Gavin http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111543 Gavin Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:29:57 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111543 Yes mate. Always been a big fan of the simplicity of the Joshuaink layout and the jewel like complexity of the background. When we redesdined the Kyan site earlier this year this was a definite influence... <a href="http://kyanmedia.com/">http://kyanmedia.com</a> Yes mate. Always been a big fan of the simplicity of the Joshuaink layout and the jewel like complexity of the background. When we redesdined the Kyan site earlier this year this was a definite influence… <a href="http://kyanmedia.com/">http://kyanmedia.com</a>

]]> By: robbin lang http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111705 robbin lang Fri, 12 Oct 2007 15:22:22 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111705 here is <a href="http://moddpodd.com/" title="moddpodd" rel="nofollow">another one</a>. here is another one.

]]> By: J Lane http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111760 J Lane Fri, 12 Oct 2007 16:31:15 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111760 From a design point of view, what width do you shoot for on one of these, or do you use some other kind of trickery to prevent it from doing a repeat-x on really large screens?I love the effect you can get from these.  Gorgeous design.  From a design point of view, what width do you shoot for on one of these, or do you use some other kind of trickery to prevent it from doing a repeat-x on really large screens?I love the effect you can get from these.  Gorgeous design. 

]]> By: Lea http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111813 Lea Fri, 12 Oct 2007 17:21:13 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111813 This borrows heavily from the arts & crafts movement (collages, murals, layering, etc) so it's not necessarily something "new" -- just hasn't been explored fully on the web yet. It seems as if the web keeps choosing a well-established graphic design technique used in print (like fundamentals of grid design, typography, whitespace) and then focuses on it for a while, until an intrepid designer gets bored and uses new inspiration and a new trend appears. These are simply inspired graphic design choices. It's just not common within our web realm because the number of us who have actual fine art or illustrative leanings (never mind formal training on such) on top of being interested in the web are few.Tho, I have to say, it gives that extra almost-tangible feeling when visiting a website, because of all the textures and layers, as opposed to what we're used to: cool gradients, and metallic metaphors. Hence, why it's fresh. :) This borrows heavily from the arts & crafts movement (collages, murals, layering, etc) so it’s not necessarily something "new" — just hasn’t been explored fully on the web yet. It seems as if the web keeps choosing a well-established graphic design technique used in print (like fundamentals of grid design, typography, whitespace) and then focuses on it for a while, until an intrepid designer gets bored and uses new inspiration and a new trend appears. These are simply inspired graphic design choices. It’s just not common within our web realm because the number of us who have actual fine art or illustrative leanings (never mind formal training on such) on top of being interested in the web are few.Tho, I have to say, it gives that extra almost-tangible feeling when visiting a website, because of all the textures and layers, as opposed to what we’re used to: cool gradients, and metallic metaphors. Hence, why it’s fresh. :)

]]> By: Lea http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111863 Lea Fri, 12 Oct 2007 18:27:20 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-111863 Oh, just another thing... I don't think it's necessarily about "talent" as much as it is about knowledge. People who have a keen interest in art and design history, whether this is through school or just a hobby, just tend to recognize other possibilities because their visual vocabulary has increased.That being said, talent can be attributed to someone who can see beyond the obvious to apply this visual vocabulary.  :-) Oh, just another thing… I don’t think it’s necessarily about "talent" as much as it is about knowledge. People who have a keen interest in art and design history, whether this is through school or just a hobby, just tend to recognize other possibilities because their visual vocabulary has increased.That being said, talent can be attributed to someone who can see beyond the obvious to apply this visual vocabulary.  :-)

]]> By: Marc Ashwell » Blog Archive » links for 2007-10-12 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112030 Marc Ashwell » Blog Archive » links for 2007-10-12 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 21:25:29 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112030 [...] » Big, Bold Backgrounds » fadtastic - a multi-author web design trends journal (tags: css design web backgrounds) [...] […] » Big, Bold Backgrounds » fadtastic - a multi-author web design trends journal (tags: css design web backgrounds) […]

]]> By: Johan http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112116 Johan Fri, 12 Oct 2007 23:11:12 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112116 Hi Andrew, I think  it is purely illustration art to do these backgrounds. It is a shame that is hidden behind the main content. But realistically it depends of the budget as well.You can do a beatifull website with less as well, does not mean that it is less effective.   Hi Andrew, I think  it is purely illustration art to do these backgrounds. It is a shame that is hidden behind the main content. But realistically it depends of the budget as well.You can do a beatifull website with less as well, does not mean that it is less effective.  

]]> By: napyfab:blog» Blog Archive » links for 2007-10-12 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112125 napyfab:blog» Blog Archive » links for 2007-10-12 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 23:30:57 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112125 [...] » Big, Bold Backgrounds » fadtastic - a multi-author web design trends journal (tags: css design web background inspiration webdev development) [...] […] » Big, Bold Backgrounds » fadtastic - a multi-author web design trends journal (tags: css design web background inspiration webdev development) […]

]]> By: Trevor Davis | Blog » Weekly Link Round-Up #2 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112245 Trevor Davis | Blog » Weekly Link Round-Up #2 Sat, 13 Oct 2007 02:59:10 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112245 [...] Big, Bold Backgrounds [...] […] Big, Bold Backgrounds […]

]]> By: moorecreative http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112330 moorecreative Sat, 13 Oct 2007 04:17:35 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-112330 great article! we love working with wide designs and adding something exciting to the background. several sites we've designed have wider content backgrounds as part of the website design...http://www.hendrickmotorsports.coma mix of wider backgrounds with centered, focused content images that are still behind/around the main text content  great article! we love working with wide designs and adding something exciting to the background. several sites we’ve designed have wider content backgrounds as part of the website design…http://www.hendrickmotorsports.coma mix of wider backgrounds with centered, focused content images that are still behind/around the main text content 

]]> By: Beth http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113132 Beth Sat, 13 Oct 2007 23:55:21 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113132 I'd absolutely love a background like they have at Web Designer Wall/n.design or Malene Hald, but I sure couldn't make it myself.  I'd guess that (talent) is what holds back a whole lot of us.Also, there's that cookie-cutter, bland, tired trend with the shiny/rounded/plain thing going on.  For some reason, everyone seems to think that's the <em>best thing evar. </em>I think it's overused and boring.<em></em> I’d absolutely love a background like they have at Web Designer Wall/n.design or Malene Hald, but I sure couldn’t make it myself.  I’d guess that (talent) is what holds back a whole lot of us.Also, there’s that cookie-cutter, bland, tired trend with the shiny/rounded/plain thing going on.  For some reason, everyone seems to think that’s the best thing evar. I think it’s overused and boring.

]]> By: Beth http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113137 Beth Sun, 14 Oct 2007 00:01:07 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113137 I should add that my site is graphics-intensive, and I do get people complaining about it being "slow" to load (usually 56K users, and only using IE6 & older).  So there probably are designers who simply won't do such things because they know the effects.  My solution (of sorts) has been to have other themes available for people on slower connections.  It seems to work for me. I should add that my site is graphics-intensive, and I do get people complaining about it being "slow" to load (usually 56K users, and only using IE6 & older).  So there probably are designers who simply won’t do such things because they know the effects.  My solution (of sorts) has been to have other themes available for people on slower connections.  It seems to work for me.

]]> By: links for 2007-10-14 | MY Vast Right Wing Conspiracy http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113306 links for 2007-10-14 | MY Vast Right Wing Conspiracy Sun, 14 Oct 2007 11:35:14 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113306 [...] Big Bold Backgrounds Some GORGEOUS websites, and a question: why don’t more designers do sites like these? (I think it’s a lack of artistic ability, plus fear of slow-loading websites.) (tags: design webdesign backgrounds graphics inspiration trends) [...] […] Big Bold Backgrounds Some GORGEOUS websites, and a question: why don’t more designers do sites like these? (I think it’s a lack of artistic ability, plus fear of slow-loading websites.) (tags: design webdesign backgrounds graphics inspiration trends) […]

]]> By: Neosapience http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113365 Neosapience Sun, 14 Oct 2007 16:14:09 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113365 Visual overkill. I love art myself, but when I'm trying to read information or watch a video, the last thing I need is a bazzillion flowers blaring in my eyes. Thanks but no thanks. Visual overkill. I love art myself, but when I’m trying to read information or watch a video, the last thing I need is a bazzillion flowers blaring in my eyes. Thanks but no thanks.

]]> By: Sue http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113459 Sue Sun, 14 Oct 2007 21:39:23 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113459 Actually, I used the Johuaink design on one of my blogs for a few weeks before deciding it was too busy. PNG transparencies also don't work too well in IE6 (still the most popular browser unfortunately) and there was a disgusting blue time to the content background image. I just think it's overkill to have a design like this. This is not print, it's the web, and there are too many people that do not have broadband. Or worse, pay by bandwidth used. Nice designs, but no thanks. Actually, I used the Johuaink design on one of my blogs for a few weeks before deciding it was too busy. PNG transparencies also don’t work too well in IE6 (still the most popular browser unfortunately) and there was a disgusting blue time to the content background image. I just think it’s overkill to have a design like this. This is not print, it’s the web, and there are too many people that do not have broadband. Or worse, pay by bandwidth used. Nice designs, but no thanks.

]]> By: juliuss http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113569 juliuss Mon, 15 Oct 2007 02:35:40 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113569 I agree with Neo -- it's pointless and distracting. I agree with Neo — it’s pointless and distracting.

]]> By: Matt Davies http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113659 Matt Davies Mon, 15 Oct 2007 09:37:50 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113659 <p>"it’s pointless"</p><p> Going back to my comment  - I would dis-agree that its pointless. If it helps to add to the key messages of the site then I think its worth while</p><p>If we said it was "pointless" then you could add this to any design element. </p> "it’s pointless"

 Going back to my comment  - I would dis-agree that its pointless. If it helps to add to the key messages of the site then I think its worth while

If we said it was "pointless" then you could add this to any design element.

]]> By: Dana http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113720 Dana Mon, 15 Oct 2007 15:25:07 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113720 Here's a site we worked on with a very extensive background - made to match their album cover: <a href="http://www.thejunction.ca" rel="nofollow">The Junction</a> Here’s a site we worked on with a very extensive background - made to match their album cover: The Junction

]]> By: Links of Interest - CSS-Tricks http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113737 Links of Interest - CSS-Tricks Mon, 15 Oct 2007 16:51:49 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113737 [...] has a nice roundup of web site designs with big, bold backgrounds. This is certainly a trend lately, and I think it will continue since the only real strike against [...] […] has a nice roundup of web site designs with big, bold backgrounds. This is certainly a trend lately, and I think it will continue since the only real strike against […]

]]> By: revy http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113746 revy Mon, 15 Oct 2007 18:02:04 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-113746 Nice collection of designs and good article. I have seen rips of Johuaink being sold in website auctions like sitepoint and private forums. So a good design will always be popular I suppose. I figure if people are ripping off your design and then selling it as their own, you're probably doing something right! Nice collection of designs and good article. I have seen rips of Johuaink being sold in website auctions like sitepoint and private forums. So a good design will always be popular I suppose. I figure if people are ripping off your design and then selling it as their own, you’re probably doing something right!

]]> By: schnuck http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-114870 schnuck Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:44:12 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-114870 "Visual overkill. I love art myself, but when I’m trying to read information or watch a video, the last thing I need is a bazzillion flowers blaring in my eyes. Thanks but no thanks."perfectly missing the point. surely one is allowed to do what one believes is good design on his/her PERSONAL website. if you want to watch a video, head over to mainstream youtube. "Visual overkill. I love art myself, but when I’m trying to read information or watch a video, the last thing I need is a bazzillion flowers blaring in my eyes. Thanks but no thanks."perfectly missing the point. surely one is allowed to do what one believes is good design on his/her PERSONAL website. if you want to watch a video, head over to mainstream youtube.

]]> By: wendy http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115007 wendy Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:08:59 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115007 when you are living in a 3rd world country where at least a small % of your users are using dial up this is totally impracticle when you are living in a 3rd world country where at least a small % of your users are using dial up this is totally impracticle

]]> By: Dominik Lenk http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115269 Dominik Lenk Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:10:07 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115269 I recently redesigned my own website, and one of the requirements for it was that the background added some personality: So I went for a very illustration based background image. (Only at the top though)I would love to hear what you guys think of the redesign: There is a blog post entitled 'Welcome to the Doodle Bush Edition', you can drop your comments there. Awesome. Thanks.Oh the URL is http://www.squawkdesign.com.... I recently redesigned my own website, and one of the requirements for it was that the background added some personality: So I went for a very illustration based background image. (Only at the top though)I would love to hear what you guys think of the redesign: There is a blog post entitled ‘Welcome to the Doodle Bush Edition’, you can drop your comments there. Awesome. Thanks.Oh the URL is http://www.squawkdesign.com….

]]> By: Franck http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115611 Franck Thu, 18 Oct 2007 07:24:13 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115611 The result can be great if it's well used like http://www.cobahair.co.uk/.Otherwise, big backgrounds are just useless decoration. The result can be great if it’s well used like http://www.cobahair.co.uk/.Otherwise, big backgrounds are just useless decoration.

]]> By: Franck http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115612 Franck Thu, 18 Oct 2007 07:25:22 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115612 Correction, sorry.The result can be great if it’s well used like <a href="http://www.cobahair.co.uk" rel="nofollow">http://www.cobahair.co.uk</a>Otherwise, big backgrounds are just useless decoration. Correction, sorry.The result can be great if it’s well used like http://www.cobahair.co.ukOtherwise, big backgrounds are just useless decoration.

]]> By: Fatih Hayrioğlu’nun not defteri » 18 Ekim 2007 Web’den Seçme Haberler http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115620 Fatih Hayrioğlu’nun not defteri » 18 Ekim 2007 Web’den Seçme Haberler Thu, 18 Oct 2007 07:48:38 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115620 [...] Web sayfalarında geniş zeminli resimlerin kullanımı. Bağlantı [...] […] Web sayfalarında geniş zeminli resimlerin kullanımı. Bağlantı […]

]]> By: Lawrence Salberg http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115865 Lawrence Salberg Fri, 19 Oct 2007 03:34:47 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-115865 Seems to me the trend <em>is</em> increasing. Of course, for me, maybe its like owning that new car when you suddenly realize that everyone is driving the same car. But I see big backgrounds.... everywhere. Check out <a href="http://www.worldofwarcraft.com">World of Warcraft</a>'s main site. It's done entirely in XML - and if you examine how they do the background, you'll see it is several images floated left and right, some of it hooked on certain elements. Maybe not entirely semantic (if you're a purist), but quite a nice effect and it doesn't require one giant image download, but gives the same feel. I also like <a href="http://www.2advanced.com">2 Advanced</a>'s site, which although it is in flash (uh-oh - I'm in trouble now!), look at how bee-yoo-tee-ful and wide they are. When you visit different sections, the backgrounds change. Of course, 2 Advanced is a one of the top web firms in the country, but hey, what better to go visit their site and see why they keep getting all the big clients. As a result of all this inspiration, I've started adding flat file images to all my new clients websites. It allows the site to stay thin (800w) for small business clients who's customers may not have the latest monitors, but doesn't look super-thin on wide-screen monitors. I'm just finishing up a site for a dance studio (<a href="http://www.dancezonebrevard.com">The Dance Zone</a>) and you can see I added two dancing girls that infringe on the main page, but expand widely off to the left and right so that the page doesn't look too thin. Because the girls are just one-color (grey), the background image is can be saved easily as a gif and  isn't very large (16k). I highly recommend trying it when you design new projects. A great way to make a simple website (for a small business or quick blog) and make it look quite professional. Seems to me the trend is increasing. Of course, for me, maybe its like owning that new car when you suddenly realize that everyone is driving the same car. But I see big backgrounds…. everywhere. Check out <a href="http://www.worldofwarcraft.com">World of Warcraft</a>’s main site. It’s done entirely in XML - and if you examine how they do the background, you’ll see it is several images floated left and right, some of it hooked on certain elements. Maybe not entirely semantic (if you’re a purist), but quite a nice effect and it doesn’t require one giant image download, but gives the same feel. I also like <a href="http://www.2advanced.com">2 Advanced</a>’s site, which although it is in flash (uh-oh - I’m in trouble now!), look at how bee-yoo-tee-ful and wide they are. When you visit different sections, the backgrounds change. Of course, 2 Advanced is a one of the top web firms in the country, but hey, what better to go visit their site and see why they keep getting all the big clients. As a result of all this inspiration, I’ve started adding flat file images to all my new clients websites. It allows the site to stay thin (800w) for small business clients who’s customers may not have the latest monitors, but doesn’t look super-thin on wide-screen monitors. I’m just finishing up a site for a dance studio (<a href="http://www.dancezonebrevard.com">The Dance Zone</a>) and you can see I added two dancing girls that infringe on the main page, but expand widely off to the left and right so that the page doesn’t look too thin. Because the girls are just one-color (grey), the background image is can be saved easily as a gif and  isn’t very large (16k). I highly recommend trying it when you design new projects. A great way to make a simple website (for a small business or quick blog) and make it look quite professional.

]]> By: c. s. http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-116825 c. s. Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:57:10 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-116825 Even though I don't feel I have the ability for such gran pieces of artwork, it's not what's stopping me from using this style of design.  Large pieces of artwork are very limiting to the site's design.  I prefer a cross between elastic and liquid in my own work, something that generally doesn't play very nicely with large images. p. s. Whatever javascript tomfoolery this form uses is breaking my browser's behavior and doesn't seem to work very well with css off, either. Even though I don’t feel I have the ability for such gran pieces of artwork, it’s not what’s stopping me from using this style of design.  Large pieces of artwork are very limiting to the site’s design.  I prefer a cross between elastic and liquid in my own work, something that generally doesn’t play very nicely with large images. p. s. Whatever javascript tomfoolery this form uses is breaking my browser’s behavior and doesn’t seem to work very well with css off, either.

]]> By: hggoto » Blog Archive » Big, Bold Backgrounds http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-118951 hggoto » Blog Archive » Big, Bold Backgrounds Mon, 22 Oct 2007 11:50:59 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-118951 [...] here to [...] […] here to […]

]]> By: netroads » Big, Bold Backgrounds http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-118971 netroads » Big, Bold Backgrounds Mon, 22 Oct 2007 12:09:39 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-118971 [...] sourced here [...] […] sourced here […]

]]> By: Weekend Wrap Up | Stephan Miller http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-121958 Weekend Wrap Up | Stephan Miller Thu, 25 Oct 2007 12:18:15 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-121958 [...] am going to take a look at few site designs with big, bold backgrounds to see if that is an option for another blog I am working [...] […] am going to take a look at few site designs with big, bold backgrounds to see if that is an option for another blog I am working […]

]]> By: Intricately beautiful backgrounds « Hooked on design http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-122213 Intricately beautiful backgrounds « Hooked on design Thu, 25 Oct 2007 16:21:29 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-122213 [...] are some websites that you probably just visit for the eye candy. I know I do I bumped into this post by Andrew Faulkner, who happened to list some of my favorite [...] […] are some websites that you probably just visit for the eye candy. I know I do I bumped into this post by Andrew Faulkner, who happened to list some of my favorite […]

]]> By: Big, bold blockups - Design Deadline Blog http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-128685 Big, bold blockups - Design Deadline Blog Fri, 02 Nov 2007 07:14:55 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-128685 [...] had a great post a few weeks ago about Big, bold backgrounds and this is my version, with [...] […] had a great post a few weeks ago about Big, bold backgrounds and this is my version, with […]

]]> By: design simple web http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-131421 design simple web Tue, 06 Nov 2007 10:12:11 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-131421 about 3 years ago it will slow down loading website. Now we (web designers) can use it. THX about 3 years ago it will slow down loading website. Now we (web designers) can use it. THX

]]> By: Thank you for linking me | Malene Hald http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-177464 Thank you for linking me | Malene Hald Sun, 23 Dec 2007 17:01:17 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-177464 [...]   [...] […]   […]

]]> By: Most Inspired Blog » Blog Archive » 6 Methods to Make Your Website Standout http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-270541 Most Inspired Blog » Blog Archive » 6 Methods to Make Your Website Standout Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:31:17 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-270541 [...] For more designs that feature large background images, see Fadtastic’s Big, Bold Backgrounds. [...] […] For more designs that feature large background images, see Fadtastic’s Big, Bold Backgrounds. […]

]]> By: 6 métodos para hacer que tu página destaque http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-274951 6 métodos para hacer que tu página destaque Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:54:44 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-274951 [...] Puedes ver algunos diseños con grandes imágenes de fondo en Big, Bold Backgrounds [...] […] Puedes ver algunos diseños con grandes imágenes de fondo en Big, Bold Backgrounds […]

]]> By: Algunos trucos para destacar en la web » Cosas sencillas http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-276550 Algunos trucos para destacar en la web » Cosas sencillas Tue, 11 Mar 2008 08:41:06 +0000 http://fadtastic.net/2007/10/10/big-bold-backgrounds/#comment-276550 [...] Ejemplo: Webdesignerwall es un conocido sitio que hace uso de un fondo bastante grande. La estructura del sitio es bastante común, 2 columnas, pero la imagen de fondo le da a la página un toque que se aleja de lo estándar. Puedes ver algunos diseños con grandes imágenes de fondo en Big, Bold Backgrounds [...] […] Ejemplo: Webdesignerwall es un conocido sitio que hace uso de un fondo bastante grande. La estructura del sitio es bastante común, 2 columnas, pero la imagen de fondo le da a la página un toque que se aleja de lo estándar. Puedes ver algunos diseños con grandes imágenes de fondo en Big, Bold Backgrounds […]

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