Skeuomorphism

Your constantly-updated definition of Skeuomorphism and collection of videos and articles
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What is Skeuomorphism?

Skeuomorphism is a term most often used in graphical user interface design to describe interface objects that mimic their real-world counterparts in how they appear and/or how the user can interact with them. A well-known example is the recycle bin icon used for discarding files. Skeuomorphism makes interface objects in a UI design familiar to users by using concepts they recognize.

Skeuomorphism is related to what ecological psychologist James Gibson termed “affordances.” Affordances refer to action possibilities of objects or other features of the environment. The most commonly cited examples of affordances include door handles and push buttons; their physical designs inform users that they can be rotated or pushed. Skeuomorphism represents affordances in digital user interfaces. It fits with our natural interpretation of objects—but in a digital world.

Skeuomorphism’s use in mobile UX design and making interfaces more familiar and thus easier to use stems from the early days of computing and mobile computing. For instance, early versions of Apple’s mobile operating system, iOS, used skeuomorphism heavily across its user interface (e.g., buttons resembling glossy ‘real’ buttons, photos with white borders looking like physical photographs, etc.). Skeuomorphism in iOS was widely regarded as part of the reason it was so intuitive to use by people who had never used a touch-based smartphone before.

It has been widely debated, however, whether users have become so accustomed to interacting with graphical user interfaces that skeuomorphism is no longer necessary. Opponents of skeuomorphism argue that natural-looking objects can make an interface look cluttered and that some of the objects mimicked in skeuomorphism have become obsolete and meaningless to users (e.g., the floppy disk for the “Save” action). Proponents, on the other hand, argue that humans can never become as accustomed to the digital world as we are to the physical world—so, simple skeuomorphism will continue to be helpful.

Questions related to Skeuomorphism

Where to learn more about skeuomorphism?

Gain a deeper understanding of skeuomorphism and its applications by exploring courses like the Interaction Design Foundation's Affordances: Designing Intuitive User Interfaces. This course highlights the uses and other factors of skeuomorphism. Remember to stay updated on industry trends and emerging perspectives to continuously enrich your knowledge. Keep up with the changing trends in design practices. Take a relevant course in the field of UX design to learn more about different design styles like skeuomorphism. Since Smartwatch design uses skeuomorphism, you can learn more on that topic. Additionally, refer to articles and resources on skeuomorphism available on the Interaction Design Foundation's website for further insights.

What is the difference between flat and skeuomorphism?

Flat design and skeuomorphic design differ in their visual styles. The skeuomorphic design mimics real-world objects, using realistic textures and details. This style draws inspiration from the physical world, replicating elements such as buttons, gradients, and shadows. In contrast, flat design embraces simplicity, with vibrant colors and no realistic shadows or textures. Instead, it uses clean and minimalist aesthetics in the design. It features crisp lines and bold typography, creating a modern visual language. Designers can choose the most suitable approach based on their project's specific needs and preferences. Always consider the platform on which users will view. Refer to this article to learn more about flat design.

What is new skeuomorphism?

New skeuomorphism is a modern take on the traditional skeuomorphic design style, incorporating familiar elements into new technologies. This updated style aims to blend the familiarity of real-world objects with the functionality of digital devices, creating a more intuitive user experience. Smartwatches use this approach, adopting intuitive design elements like watch faces that mimic traditional analog timepieces. These design choices enhance user familiarity and ease the transition to innovative technologies. Designers can leverage new skeuomorphism to create interfaces that resonate with users while harnessing the full potential of modern digital capabilities. Read this article to learn the use of intuitive design.

What is the opposite of skeuomorphic design?

The opposite of skeuomorphic design is often considered "flat design." Flat design embraces simplicity with realistic textures, shadows, and three-dimensional effects. It focuses on visual clarity and employs a minimalist design approach, eliminating unnecessary add-ons. Flat design has gained prominence due to the need for streamlined, user-centric interfaces prioritizing functionality over design elements. Its emphasis on simplicity and clarity aligns with the evolving preferences for cleaner, more modern aesthetics in the digital design landscape. Both skeuomorphic and flat designs provide designers with a range of design approaches. Designers can choose between the two design styles based on the behavior and choices of their target audience.

Will skeuomorphism ever come back?

Skeuomorphism may be making a comeback, especially in smartwatch design. This means that designers are reusing skeuomorphism to make products look more like real-world objects. A smartwatch with a skeuomorphic watch face may have a round face with hands and numbers. The cyclical nature of design trends makes it possible for skeuomorphism to re-emerge as designers explore new ways to engage users. Designers are reintegrating familiar visual cues to enhance user engagement. Keeping an eye on industry developments provides valuable insights into emerging UI trends. As the design landscape evolves, the return of skeuomorphism is an example of the dynamic nature of design trends. Read this article and keep up with the latest UI trends.

Is skeuomorphism still used?

Although skeuomorphism is less popular than it used to be, it is still frequently used. The shopping basket in e-commerce sites is often shown in skeuomorphic form, with wheels, wire mesh, and handles. Other examples include smartwatches with faces that look like traditional watch faces. This makes it easier for them to tell the time with their hands than with a digital display. The visual continuity between old and new technologies also helps to ease the adoption process, offering users a recognizable interface that preserves the feel of traditional designs. Despite the recent shift towards flat design and minimalism, the strategic application of skeuomorphic elements in specific contexts highlights its relevance as a design choice. Read this article by IxDF to learn about the history of skeuomorphic design.

What is skeuomorphism in art?

In art, skeuomorphism involves creating representations that mimic real-world objects or materials. For example, an artist might use digital tools to create a painting that simulates the texture of traditional canvas or imitates the appearance of physical brushstrokes. Skeuomorphism in art bridges the digital and physical realms, offering a visual language that resonates with familiarity while leveraging the capabilities of traditional tools. However, like in design, the extent to which art embraces skeuomorphism remains subjective. While some advocate for its nostalgic charm, others push for more innovative and abstract approaches that transcend traditional mediums. This method is also sometimes adapted in the field of graphic design

What is an example of a skeuomorphism?

Skeuomorphism is a design concept in which items resemble their real-world counterparts. An excellent example of skeuomorphism in interaction design is the "Trash" or "Recycle Bin" icon on many computer desktop interfaces. This digital interface element is designed to look like a physical trash can, visually implying that unwanted files get "thrown away" in this container. Its function (deleting files) is thus made more intuitive to users by mimicking a familiar object from the physical world.

Another notable example was the "Bookshelf" interface on older versions of Apple's iBooks and Newsstand apps. This display was designed to look like real wooden shelves filled with books and magazines, providing a visual metaphor consistent with users' experiences of real-world libraries or bookstores.

Is skeuomorphism bad?

Skeuomorphism can be considered bad when it leads to clutter and introduces unnecessary details that no longer serve a functional purpose in the digital environment. Critics argue that replicating outdated physical objects can make interfaces appear dated and that users are now sufficiently familiar with digital interaction designs, rendering skeuomorphism redundant. The excess of skeuomorphic elements can hinder user experience by diverting attention from essential functions and contributing to visual noise. Additionally, as technology evolves, users may find skeuomorphic designs less appealing. They continuously seek interfaces that align more closely with modern aesthetics and streamlined functionality. On the contrary, skeuomorphism designs also boast many advantages. Because skeuomorphic designs resemble actual items, users can guess how to interact with them, ensuring precise interactions and reducing potential confusion. Additionally, adding skeuomorphic icons or backgrounds can help increase user immersion by aligning expectations with experience. The debate over skeuomorphism highlights the importance of balancing familiar design cues and embracing digital environments' unique possibilities. This will ensure that user interfaces remain both visually engaging and optimally functional.

Literature on Skeuomorphism

Here’s the entire UX literature on Skeuomorphism by the Interaction Design Foundation, collated in one place:

Learn more about Skeuomorphism

Take a deep dive into Skeuomorphism with our course Visual Design: The Ultimate Guide .

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In the first lesson, you’ll learn the difference between visual design elements and visual design principles. You’ll also learn how to effectively use visual design elements and principles by deconstructing several well-known designs. 

In the second lesson, you’ll learn about the science and importance of color. You’ll gain a better understanding of color modes, color schemes and color systems. You’ll also learn how to confidently use color by understanding its cultural symbolism and context of use. 

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You’ll be taught by some of the world’s leading experts. The experts we’ve handpicked for you are the Vignelli Distinguished Professor of Design Emeritus at RIT R. Roger Remington, author of “American Modernism: Graphic Design, 1920 to 1960”; Co-founder of The Book Doctors Arielle Eckstut and leading color consultant Joann Eckstut, co-authors of “What Is Color?” and “The Secret Language of Color”; Award-winning designer and educator Mia Cinelli, TEDx speaker of “The Power of Typography”; Betty Cooke and William O. Steinmetz Design Chair at MICA Ellen Lupton, author of “Thinking with Type”; Chair of the Graphic + Interactive communication department at the Ringling School of Art and Design Kimberly Elam, author of "Grid Systems: Principles of Organizing Type.”

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