Could use some inspiration to a new site for design studio

[Rasmusbp]

Hi

I'm about to design a website for my design studio, Yellow Graphics. And I could use some inspiration on the design. It should on one hand show that it's a creative studio, that's into breakthrough thinking, and isn't afraid to be playful with the design, and on the other hand give a professional and serious impression of the studio.

This site could be an example of what I'm thinking of: http://www.tshirtaxid.com/

I really like the use of a backround image, so do you guys know of any cool sites that is forfilling those criteria?

Thanks in advance

/Rasmusbp

[Broacher]

Use the 'Breakthrough thinking' button (right under the 'Fresh' filter).

If you want breakthrough, don't copy what's out there. Find out what's in you, first.

[Rasmusbp]

If you want breakthrough, don't copy what's out there. Find out what's in you, first.

Hi Broacher
Thank you for your reply... :)
Of course we don't intend to copy anything, but instead try to find our own expression. But taking inspiration from the outside world only improve your work. Or at least that's what I have experienced throughout the years. And I think most designers would agree.

[carter the artist]

Broacher likes to come off as a smart arse once in a while. But what he was saying was that it sounds like what you are asking for is us to do your job for you. Understandably, we all face that white canvas and stare at it too long sometimes. but the thing that seperates us from those who think all they need to do is find out which software to buy, is the creative spark. Most of us on the GDF love to help people flesh out or find a missing spot, but the real leg work, well my friend that's what we get paid to do.

but don't take it personally. Just sit down, sketch some ideas. Brainstorm. Play some tetris. take a walk, and then make sure to do some more sketches... you'll find that spark, and then you can post it and we will gladly post some critique/criticisms....

(sounds harsh, again.. but i'm in a bit of a blunt mood.)

[Broacher]

Oh yeah, I agree too. It's just that it doesn't have to come from other web sites. In fact, it would probably be better if it didn't. I mean, what are you trying to do with your site? How do YOU define a breakthrough sit? Breakthrough in graphic design? Navigation? Effects? How about breakthrough in brand recognition and/or sales? Which would you pick?

Sometimes I think people try way too hard to be 'different', especially in form, and they miss their own uniquessness in the effort.

If I am designing for a breakthrough, I don't think about form, I think about message. What can I say or convey to the potential client/reader that will make them stop, look, and listen (before they cross to my side of the street!).

That requires you to do a lot of thinking about reader expectations, reader frustrations, and reader fulfilment. Imagine yourself as a client. Then what would YOU like to experience if YOU were looking for a designer online?

Once you've got some kind of message and objective sketched out-- then you can start looking for the form to best deliver it. It's all about getting simple, not complex. Have you done much copy writing?

[Drazan]

If I'm stuck in a rut on something I do a few things to unstick.

Word association

photo/image collage and seeing if any in the mass on my workspace tweaks my interest.

[Rasmusbp]

Hi all

Thanks for your replies... I like the fact that you just don't say "NO", but instead contribute with some great advices. Thanks!... I love the brainstorm and research phase, so this was just a part of it. Right now I'm sketching on the design, so hopefully some breaktrough thinking will pop-up in my mind :).

Broacher: I have experience with copy writing. I'm familiar with the concept and the basic rules, but it's not my main feature.

[kevincdg]

You should design your site as a giant pantone switch.

All the concent can be inside and links can beo utside in little different shades of yellow.

AWESOME!

Just kidding.

Goodluck :D