When it comes to creating designs, web pages, or applications, one of the questions that always arises is: should we focus on making the design visually appealing or completely functional?

However, the reality is that, inevitably, we will always have to give up something. There is no design that is 50% aesthetic and 50% functional. The key is not to choose one or the other but to find the perfect balance between both, considering the specific needs and characteristics of each project.

The power of aesthetics: first impressions matter

An attractive design not only beautifies but also communicates and generates emotions in a matter of seconds. Colors, typography, visual hierarchy, and composition have a significant impact on user perception.

When a design is well-crafted visually:

- It generates trust and credibility in the brand or product.
- It allows differentiation from the competition and positions itself in the user's mind.
- It transforms a common experience into something memorable.

However, a beautiful design without a usability strategy behind it can become a double-edged sword. If the user cannot easily interact, aesthetics lose their value.

Functionality: design that guides and solves problems

On the other hand, a design focused on UX/UI emphasizes usability, accessibility, and efficiency. Functionality is key because:

- A user frustrated with a confusing interface quickly abandons it.
- A website or app without intuitive navigation doesn't convert visits into actions.
- A design without clear hierarchy can generate disorientation and friction in the user experience.

As Steve Jobs said: "Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." A functional design solves problems and facilitates interaction, allowing the user to achieve their objective efficiently.

The solution: You always have to give up something

As we have seen, the key is not simply choosing between a beautiful design or a functional one, but knowing what the right balance is depending on the circumstances of each project. Each design is unique and responds to specific needs, which makes the decision between aesthetics and functionality not a matter of choosing one or the other but adjusting them to what the context requires. It's important to understand that there are no designs that are strictly 50% aesthetic and 50% functional.

Giving up doesn't necessarily mean making sacrifices but making strategic decisions that allow prioritizing what's most relevant in each case. Each project has its own demands.

The first step: Analyze the project

I will focus on talking about UX/UI design. When a new project comes to us, the first step is to carry out a detailed analysis. Designing an ecommerce is not the same as a portfolio for an architecture studio. The first must focus on usability and functionality because, in this case, what's essential is that the client can navigate smoothly, find products easily, and complete purchases without complications. On the other hand, a portfolio for an architecture studio primarily aims to showcase the creativity and style of the projects, so in this case, the design can be freer, seeking an attractive visual impact that highlights the studio's work.

Besides analyzing the type of project, it's crucial to understand the target audience, their level of awareness and specialization. Designing for a general audience is not the same as designing for a group of experts in a specific area. The product to be offered should also be studied since some products require a more practical and accessible approach, while others can benefit from a more striking and sophisticated design.


Ecommerce

Functionality:

When I work on an ecommerce project, the first thing I do is focus on functionality, as the user experience is key to converting visits into purchases. To ensure that the design is functional, I implement clear and simple navigation. This includes a well-structured dropdown menu, easy-to-use filters, and a prominent search bar so users can quickly find the products they are looking for. Additionally, I optimize the purchase process to be as intuitive as possible: a cart always visible in the upper corner, large and clear "add to cart" buttons, and a fast checkout process with clear and varied payment options. I also add breadcrumbs so that the user knows exactly where they are in the process and doesn't feel lost.

Aesthetics:

While functionality is paramount, aesthetics don't take a backseat. I use a color palette that aligns with the brand identity, creating an atmosphere that visually attracts the user and inspires trust. The product images are high quality, highlighting product photos over ambient ones, and I place them in a clean and organized design, avoiding visual clutter that might distract. Well-chosen typography is also key to enhancing readability and conveying professionalism. All this helps the user not only feel comfortable navigating but also attracted by the visually harmonious and coherent design.

Portfolio for an architecture studio

Functionality:

In the case of a portfolio for an architecture studio, functionality is still essential but in a different way. Here, I focus on creating a smooth and time-efficient browsing experience that prevents page abandonment. I use a filter system that allows the user to easily explore project categories, whether by type of work, style, or date. I also ensure the page loads quickly since portfolios often contain heavy images that slow down the process. Additionally, I include a very clear contact function so potential clients can get in touch without getting lost looking for the form.

Aesthetics:

For the aesthetic part, the priority is to highlight the creativity and style of the architecture studio. In this type of design, one of the most important aspects is ensuring that the design does not compete with the essence of the projects shown. I use a neutral color palette, so as not to detract from the prominence of the project images, although it also depends on the image the studio wants to convey, but in general, this is usually the case. These tones allow the photos of the projects to take center stage and be appreciated to the fullest.

White spaces are essential in this type of project. These not only provide visual relief but also help the images stand out. In a highly visual environment like that of an architecture studio, empty spaces allow each element to have its prominence and prevent the design from looking overloaded, giving it a sophisticated air.

Moreover, to add a more dynamic and modern touch, I sometimes add subtle effects like smooth transitions between different sections of the page. These effects, although discreet, create a more immersive visual experience without distracting attention from the most important thing: the completed projects. For example, when scrolling, images can move at different speeds, creating a depth effect that makes the site more interactive to navigate.

Alternative restaurant

Functionality:

For a more alternative restaurant like one you might find in Malasaña, the focus on functionality remains key. One of the first steps is to facilitate online reservations simply and directly. This involves including a reservation form that is easy to find on the main page and accessible from any device, with options to select the date, time, and number of people, all in a few clicks. I also include a map so users can easily find the restaurant location.

The menu also needs to be accessible and easy to navigate. Instead of a static menu, I use an interactive menu that updates in real-time with new dishes, vegan, seasonal, gluten-free options, and other relevant changes. Customers can view the options, filter them, and see a brief description of the ingredients or the origin of the products. Additionally, another interesting option is to add an online payment system to reduce waiting times.

Aesthetics:

The aesthetics of an alternative restaurant should reflect the carefree and creative character of the place, which in this case is oriented towards a young, modern, and likely bohemian audience. For this, the website design has to be vibrant and full of personality, using a color palette that captures attention with more saturated tones, pastels, or earth colors, combined with bolder, modern typography. This achieves a much fresher mix that will be in tune with the place.

The use of illustrations is also key. For example, instead of just showing photos of the menu, I can include fresher and more fun illustrations of the dishes. White space here also plays an important role. While in a high-end restaurant the white space may serve to give elegance, in an alternative restaurant I use it to create a sense of openness and order, allowing visual elements like illustrations, text, or buttons to stand out without generating cognitive saturation.

Conclusion

In design, strategic decisions must always be made based on the needs and context of the project. Whether it's an ecommerce, a portfolio for an architecture studio, or an alternative restaurant, there is no design that is 50% aesthetic and 50% functional. The key is to analyze the project, the audience, and the product and balance these two elements so that each design meets its specific objectives. Giving up something is always part of the creative process, but it's this giving up that helps us focus on what's essential, creating a design that perfectly balances aesthetics and functionality.