AI design trends homogenize aesthetics—avoid UX pitfalls from AI-generated UI

In a Y Combinator Startup Podcast, Notion head of design Raphael Schaad warns that AI design trends are homogenizing digital aesthetics. He says AI models are trained on widely linked “good examples,” making design patterns spread faster and lose originality—an “AI design trends” effect. Schaad argues that AI-generated design is easy to implement but can hurt UX and conversion. He criticizes distracting UI elements added only because they’re simple for tools to produce. He also flags hover interactions: hover effects should make elements feel more clickable, but designers should not fade clickable items on hover or hide critical information behind hover—calling it an anti-pattern. He recommends enhancing hover with subtle pop/glow rather than removing visibility. He further notes that AI tools make professional-looking sites nearly effortless, raising the risk of generic branding. Nonstandard navigation can confuse users, and overused icons/emojis can look lazy and unoriginal. Overall, Schaad’s message is to prioritize user engagement over aesthetics and maintain distinctive branding despite the speed of AI-driven design adoption.