Staying human while using AI: reflections on the Squarespace Circle state of web design report, 2026
Recently, I received a package from Squarespace Circle, a thoughtful delivery that included the State of the Web Design Industry Report 2026 (and some very cosy swag that’s currently waiting for winter here in Australia).
I’ve now finished reading the report and also listened to the Circle Live conversation with Will Myers and Christy Price. While I couldn’t attend the live session due to time zone differences, the recording offered plenty of valuable insight and context around the findings.
The report is based on a global survey of more than 1,000 web designers across 20+ countries, and what stood out immediately was how aligned many of the experiences were regardless of location. The challenges, opportunities and shifts shaping the industry feel very familiar.
AI is everywhere but creativity is still human
Unsurprisingly, AI is a major theme throughout the report. Its role in web design is growing rapidly, but the key message isn’t about replacement, it’s about support.
Designers are using AI to:
speed up content creation (such as drafting or placeholder copy)
streamline workflows and administrative tasks
assist with early-stage problem-solving and ideation
What this ultimately creates is time that can be reinvested into higher-value creative thinking, strategy, and meaningful client collaboration. For me, this reinforced something I’ve been experiencing firsthand over the past year: AI works best when it helps us work smarter, not when it tries to think for us.
Human judgment, taste, empathy and intuition remain at the heart of good design. Or put simply: it’s about staying human while using AI.
Collaboration & the value of working together
Another insight that resonated strongly was the emphasis on collaboration. According to the report, 60% of designers partner with other designers, highlighting just how interconnected our work has become.
Hearing Will and Christy speak about the power of collaboration really echoed my own approach. I’ve long embraced working alongside other creatives : graphic designers, photographers, copywriters & marketing specialists because the best outcomes rarely come from working in isolation. Collaboration expands ideas, sharpens execution, and ultimately leads to better results for clients.
How platform awareness is changing client requests
The report also highlights a shift across industries, with more community and not-for-profit organisations adopting Squarespace. I’m seeing this reflected in my own work, alongside a noticeable change in how enquiries come in.
Instead of “I need a website,” I’m increasingly receiving requests that specifically ask for a Squarespace website. That level of platform awareness signals growing confidence in the tool itself and it changes the conversation from what platform to use, to how best to use it.
Final thoughts
For me, the big takeaway from the report and the wider conversation is this: AI isn’t replacing designers. It’s reshaping how we work.
When used thoughtfully, AI can help us support clients better, run more sustainable businesses, and focus on the parts of design that truly matter. The future of web design isn’t about choosing between technology and humanity but it’s about balancing both.
If you’re a designer, creative, or business owner navigating these changes, I highly recommend reading the State of the Web Design Industry 2026 report. It’s full of insight, reassurance, and practical perspective on where our industry is heading.
I’d also recommend watching the Circle Live recording, which adds valuable context and practical insight alongside the report.
