How AI is Changing Web Design…and What You Should Do
by Fabio Peters
If you’re a web designer or small business owner, you’ve likely noticed a major shift happening in our industry. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly changed the way websites are created, updated, and optimized.
What used to take weeks can now be done in minutes—with tools like Wix ADI, Framer AI, and ChatGPT-based web builders promising near-instant results.
For some, this innovation is exciting. For others, especially custom web designers, it feels like the rug is being pulled out from under us.
Is AI really replacing web designers?
The short answer: no—but it is reshaping our role. And those who adapt will be the ones who thrive.
Let’s explore how AI is changing the web design industry, common pain points designers face, and how you can future-proof your services.
AI Web Builders Are Everywhere: A Threat or an Opportunity?
One of the biggest challenges designers face today is the rise of AI-powered website builders. Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Shopify are introducing AI tools that let anyone—regardless of skill—create a “decent” website in a matter of clicks.
Pain Point: “Clients think they don’t need us anymore.”
Many web designers are hearing this more often:
“Why should I pay for a custom website when I can build one with AI for free?”
Here’s the truth: while AI can generate a template or design structure, it cannot replace a deep understanding of user behavior, business goals, SEO strategy, or custom branding. That’s where custom web design still holds unbeatable value.
Your role is shifting from just “designer” to strategist, advisor, and integrator—and this shift is opening up new opportunities.
AI Can Build a Website—But Not a Brand
AI tools are getting better, but they still lack creative intuition. A machine can’t sit with a client, ask thoughtful questions, and truly understand their story, audience, or brand values.
When small businesses rely entirely on AI tools, they often end up with:
- Generic, cookie-cutter websites
- Poor SEO performance
- Weak calls to action and conversion rates
- Inconsistent branding
These problems are opportunities for experienced web designers to step in and provide real value. At fabiopeters.com, I work with small and mid-sized businesses to craft fully custom websites that don’t just look good—they perform.
How Web Designers Can Adapt to the AI Era
Instead of competing with AI, the smart move is to leverage it. Here’s how:
1. Use AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Replacement
AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Framer AI can help speed up wireframing, content generation, image sourcing, and more. Use them to automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on the high-level design and strategy work clients actually need you for.
2. Offer Strategy and Consultation Services
Clients may not understand what a sitemap is—but they do understand wanting more sales or leads. Shift your role toward digital consulting: help businesses define their goals and then use your design skills to support them.
I offer a free consultation to help businesses map out the best web strategy—learn more here.
3. Double Down on SEO and Performance
Many AI-built websites are bloated and poorly optimized. This is your chance to differentiate. At fabiopeters.com, I offer SEO services that include on-page optimization, keyword strategy, and performance audits—something AI builders can’t do well yet.
4. Specialize in Custom Features and Integrations
AI can’t build custom e-commerce flows, third-party API integrations, or fully branded design systems. But you can. This is especially valuable for industries like law, real estate, dental, and e-commerce—industries I serve with custom WordPress design.
How to Talk to Clients About AI (Without Sounding Defensive)
Educating clients is key. Instead of saying, “AI websites are bad,” try framing it like this:
“AI tools are great for getting started—but if you want a website that reflects your unique brand, performs well on Google, and converts visitors into customers, that takes a customized approach.”
Be confident in your value. You’re not just offering a website—you’re offering a solution to their business problem.
Why Custom Web Design Still Matters
Let’s say your client owns a dental clinic. Sure, they can get a website with Wix AI—but will it:
- Follow accessibility best practices?
- Integrate with their booking software?
- Load in under 2 seconds for SEO ranking?
- Match their clinic’s tone, style, and patient experience?
This is where custom web design wins—every time.
Explore my Custom Website Design services to see how I approach every client with a tailored plan.
Future-Proof Your Web Design Business
AI is changing the game, but it doesn’t have to take you out of it. In fact, it can enhance your offerings—if you’re willing to adapt.
Here’s what you can do right now:
- Learn to use AI tools as part of your workflow
- Focus on human-centered design and strategic thinking
- Position yourself as a consultant, not just a designer
- Emphasize services like Website Maintenance, SEO, e-commerce, and branding—areas where AI can’t compete
At the end of the day, most clients don’t want “just a website”—they want results. And that’s what you deliver.
Let’s Talk: Free Web Design Consultation
Whether you’re a small business owner overwhelmed by all the new AI tools or a web designer looking to evolve, I’m here to help.
Visit fabiopeters.com to learn more about my custom web design, SEO, and branding services—or contact me here to schedule your free 30-minute consultation.
Let’s build something better than AI ever could.
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