Meng To, founder of Design+Code and creator of Aura, shares expert insights on using AI for web design. He introduces 'vibe coding,' emphasizing the importance of unique design over generic templates. The conversation covers crafting visually striking sites through precise design elements like typography and animations. Listeners learn to improve AI prompting skills and create custom websites that reflect their unique aesthetic. Meng also discusses leveraging AI tools for dynamic features and enhancing SaaS design, highlighting the evolving role of designers.
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insights INSIGHT
AI Websites Often Look Generic
Most AI-generated websites look generic and templated, lacking unique design taste.
AI needs precise design vocabulary and context to create memorable, high-converting sites.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Enhance Design with Unique Assets
Use unique assets like 3D models from Spline or animations from Unicorn Studio to make your site stand out.
Small additions of tasteful details elevate basic designs into sophisticated, memorable experiences.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Simple, Copy-Friendly Templates
Aura provides single-file HTML/CSS templates that you can copy and use anywhere without errors or dependencies.
This simplicity allows easy integration into platforms like Lovable, V0, or Cursor to jumpstart unique designs.
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Episode 69: Why do so many AI-generated websites end up looking generic—and how can you use “vibe coding” to stand out with truly designer-level style? Nathan Lands (https://x.com/NathanLands) sits down with design legend Meng To (https://x.com/MengTo), founder of Design+Code and creator of innovative tools like Aura, to deliver a practical masterclass on prompting AI for web design that’s not just beautiful, but memorable and conversion-friendly.
In this episode, Meng shares his approach to breaking free from generic, templated looks by leveraging a precise design vocabulary, including layouts, color theory, typography, animations, and unique assets. Learn how to use free resources and smart prompting techniques to turn basic AI outputs into custom-crafted sites that reflect your taste and business needs. If you care about making your site stand out in the age of AI tools like Lovable, V0, and Aura, don’t miss this hands-on walkthrough!
Check out The Next Wave YouTube Channel if you want to see Matt and Nathan on screen: https://lnk.to/thenextwavepd
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Show Notes:
(00:00) Improving AI Design with Aura
(05:32) Single-File HTML/CSS Design Simplicity
(07:27) Defining "Beautiful Site" Concepts
(10:19) Modern Skeuomorphism and Typography Trends
The Next Wave - AI and The Future of Technology 