Best Brochure Design 2017: Stunning Examples & Trends

Brochure design in 2017 was defined by a push toward clarity and intention. Marketers moved away from cluttered visuals and vague messaging, embracing layouts that guided the eye with purpose. The strongest designs balanced aesthetic appeal with a clear value proposition, ensuring the brand message cut through the noise.

The Shift Toward Minimalism and Whitespace

The dominant trend of 2017 was a firm rejection of the busy designs that preceded it. Leading brands adopted a minimalist approach, utilizing generous whitespace to create breathing room around key messages. This technique was not merely an aesthetic choice; it was a strategic tool to reduce cognitive load and ensure that the core offer was understood within seconds.

Strategic Use of Color and Typography

Color palettes became significantly bolder and more specific in 2017. Instead of rainbow gradients, designers opted for contrasting, flat colors that aligned with brand identity to create visual hierarchy. Typography played a crucial role, with clean, sans-serif fonts dominating the space to complement the minimalist aesthetic and improve readability across both digital and print formats.

Visual storytelling took center stage, moving beyond generic stock photography. High-quality, custom photography and authentic imagery were used to create an immediate emotional connection. Infographics were also a key component, translating complex data into digestible visuals that allowed the reader to grasp statistics and processes without heavy text.

Integrating Digital and Physical Experiences

The line between physical and digital marketing blurred significantly in 2017. QR codes and NFC tags became standard inclusions, transforming a static brochure into a gateway for extended content. This allowed brands to link to videos, product demos, or landing pages, effectively increasing the information density without cluttering the physical layout.

By focusing on these elements, marketers in 2017 understood that the brochure was the first tactile impression of a brand. The goal was to create a piece that felt premium and intentional, encouraging the recipient to engage deeply rather than filing it away immediately. This year marked a turning point where design met strategy in a way that was both visually stunning and highly effective.