Aesthetic Experience and User Perception in the Use of Minimalism in Contemporary Web Design

This study explores the aesthetic experience and user perception resulting from the use of minimalism in contemporary web design. As minimalism continues to shape modern digital aesthetics, understanding how users emotionally and cognitively engage with minimalist interfaces becomes increasingly relevant. The research aims to identify how visual simplicity, functional clarity, and negative space contribute to user satisfaction and usability. Employing a mixed-method approach, including user testing and surveys with a sample of 60 participants, this study evaluates responses to minimalist and non-minimalist website prototypes. The findings reveal that minimalist design enhances perceived elegance and ease of navigation, while also increasing the sense of trust and professionalism. However, the absence of visual cues can challenge some users in completing complex tasks. These insights highlight the importance of balancing visual simplicity with user guidance to optimize user experience. This research contributes to the evolving discourse on digital aesthetics and provides practical implications for designers seeking to integrate minimalist principles without compromising functionality.