Visio Talk

I got asked to take a look at this new furniture site that among other things is famous for its bar stools. And thought I would post up the review..

One of the things that I noticed when I first arrived at the site was that I did not really like it. My first feeling was that this was because it was a commercial site, purely designed to sell product, and I always like sites that tell a bit more of a story. But, as I dove deeper into the site I warmed to it more and more.. I liked the way the sections and categories were easy to access, with a nice nav bar across the top of the body section.. and I especially liked the photos and the display aspect of the site.. you have the functionality to zoom in on photos and take a closer look, which I really liked. Basically, the more I got used to the site, and the more I looked around and got into the site the more I liked what they were actually selling.

Which lead me to ponder my initial reaction. And I settled on the perspective that the design is just a bit dry and boring. I guess they are going for the classic and stylish goal, but I think they end up looking a bit stuffy, and even a bit cheap. This is the kind of template you choose from a selection of templates at a web design shop, in the cheaper end of town.. not a custom job.

And although websites are about the content, and the majority of surfers are not going to be put right off a not so pretty design.. my thinking is you want to have everything working in your favor as much as possible.

So, that is my one criticism. And my major suggestion. Funky up the design side a bit. Make it a bit more slick and web 2.0.

Overall, though.. I would highly recommend my family and friends (people I would be worried about them not having a good experience..) shop on this site.. and so, should you.

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