Quick warning: this is very much a work in progress - the links go nowhere and the copy is not complete. But... as primarily a developer I am really, really struggling with the design aspect of setting up the website for my business (I think this is my 4th full attempt!).

 

I *think* this one is ok-ish... but I want to get it right this time before I spend ages doing the other pages! So if anyone can give advice on where I could improve it, it would be much appreciated.

 

http://www.instat.co.uk/wip

 

Thanks

 

Update (30th Jan): http://www.instat.co.uk/wip2

Change the white for an off-white color, something like #f1f1f1, it looks white, but it's easier on the eyes and reduces strain. Same with black if you ever use it, go for an almost black grey.

 

It looks alright, could do with some more colours or a main visual, and the footer colour doesn't fit in with anything.

 

The radial gradient looks odd being central to me, maybe move it to the left.

 

Perhaps consider using shadows, or some minor dark tones to add a bit of depth to the aesthetics.

 

All in all i think it's pretty good, spacings good, text is easy on the eye. Maybe space the menu a bit more (maybe not, i really don't know, it looks a little cramped to me, but i think adjusting it might make it look like their floating away).

Change the white for an off-white color, something like #f1f1f1, it looks white, but it's easier on the eyes and reduces strain. Same with black if you ever use it, go for an almost black grey.

 

It looks alright, could do with some more colours or a main visual, and the footer colour doesn't fit in with anything.

 

The radial gradient looks odd being central to me, maybe move it to the left.

 

Perhaps consider using shadows, or some minor dark tones to add a bit of depth to the aesthetics.

 

All in all i think it's pretty good, spacings good, text is easy on the eye. Maybe space the menu a bit more (maybe not, i really don't know, it looks a little cramped to me, but i think adjusting it might make it look like their floating away).

 

Fantastic, thank you. I'll get on it and post back again.

That is really nice!! I like the layout and the color, really catches your eye!

 

Just one thing - change "Sounds good?" to "Sound good?"

Hi

 

The website is excellent.

 

One pointer. Never underline, because what needs to be found will be - without any assistance.

 

I think the colour scheme is brilliant.

 

Good luck and well deserved.

Ok, i've made the following changes, as per recommendations:

• Moved the radial gradient to the left
  
• Added a subtle drop shadow to the bottom of the white banner
  
• Added extra space between the nav items and moved it up a tad
  
• Changed the footer colour to white (does this now draw the eye away from the contact details too much?)
  
• Switched the screenshots to more colourful images instead
  
• Switched underlines to bold
  
• Sounds -> Sound ; )
  

Latest version is here: Work in Progess 2

 

I did try changing the #ffffff to #f1f1f1 too. I like the way it is easier on the eyes, but don't like the way it reduces the 'crispness' of the site. I'm in two minds, and could do with any advice on what way to go. Here it is:

 

Work in Progress 2 (Off White)

 

I put some fading images into the page too as a main visual... i'm not convinced on these... perhaps I need to make them bigger/bolder...?

 

(Original version still here : Work in Progress 1)

 

Thanks for your help, it's much appreciated!

 

p.s. Peter and pvcblue, thank you for the positive feedback. It makes me feel better!

Instead of a grey off-white, try a creamy off-white instead. Always works well with blues.

 

Something like #f9f9f3 or thereabouts.

 

That said, I think the white looks fine.

It works well and looks very professional. If it were me, I'd stick with white.

Ok then, white it is!

 

Thank you all for your feedback. I've found it really useful.

 

Alex

I have to say, it suits the site, and you've done a nice job.

Brilliant, very professional looking.