10 Inspiring Examples of Texture in Web Design

Something that’s been intriguing me lately is the use of texture in web designs. Of course, I’m a fan of clean designs, and sometimes overly textured sites can seem gimmicky or date quickly. There is something very elegant about white space and minimalism. However, context appropriate, tasteful texture used in clean web design can really distinguish a site and be that that x-factor that pushes a design over the top.

When I talk about texture, I’m referring to the overall appearance of something that looks like you can feel it (in some cases, it may be more about the look of subtle depth). There are many ways to achieve texture in web design, from using photographs you’ve taken of interesting objects, or by using a tileable pattern you’ve found or created.

Let’s get inspired by taking a look at some samples in this round-up–sites rebuking stark white and embracing a little texture.

1). Cultural Solutions

Cultural Solutions has created an interesting play of color and texture with a paper-texture grey background.

2). These Things Are

These Things are exhibits an oh-so-subtle paper texture background on which dynamic imagery really pops.

3). A Modern Eden

A Modern Eden is a great example how a little subtle  texture can go a long way. Here we see a non-repeating overlay. The roughness and the fact it’s tilted make the site feel approachable.

4). Moment Skis

This sample is great because subtle texture is used almost at every turn (look closely-there’s even a grain filter on the main image!). Lot of attention to detail was put into creating texture on individual call outs, as well.

5). Moody International

I like how clean white is used under the logo and navigation, and the area under the slide is dressed up with a paper texture. Also, notice how the illustrated slides have a roughed up texture as well.

6). EA Games

EA Games uses a faded repeating pixel pattern overlaying an image that fills the browser, adding interest and acting as a nice transition to the lower part of the page. This is a perfect example of how pattern can create texture.

7). Marie Catrib’s

Marie Catrib’s busts out the torn paper look for a quirky friendly vibe.

8). Craft Beer

An intriguing mix of argyle background pattern and paper texture makes for a lively experience.

9). Seo Sara

Here is an example of texture really making a site. Sure it has clear hierarchy and nice typography, but the texture makes this site more memorable.

10). Gap Medics

A diagonal pixel pattern gives a linen look to the main image. Distressing used elsewhere gives the site a bit of character.

As we find ourselves increasingly using devices and looking at screens for greater amounts of time each day, it’s sort of nice to get a tactile sense from websites. It is sort of akin to Central Park in New York City. The glamour of the city is undeniable, but sometimes you just need a little nature. In a shiny, high-tech world, it’s almost comforting to see a familiar texture mimicked online, something cozy about that feeling you might just be able to touch it.

What ways do you add texture?