CSS: Weekly Summary (May 19-25, 2025)

Modern Layouts and Logical Properties

I’ve been diving into some fascinating discussions about CSS lately, and one of the standout topics is modern layouts. Chris Ferdinandi has been exploring this area, focusing on the evolution of layout techniques. He talks about the flow or stack layout, which feels like a fresh breeze compared to the old-school methods. The lobotomized owl technique, which sounds quite quirky, is another method he’s been juggling with. Chris is in a bit of a dilemma, trying to decide between this and flexbox for his UI library project. It’s like choosing between two favorite desserts, each with its own unique flavor.

On a related note, Chris also delves into CSS logical properties. These are like a new language for defining directional properties in CSS. They’re especially handy for handling different text directions, which is a game-changer for multilingual websites. He provides some practical examples that make it easier to grasp. It’s like learning a new dance move that makes your routine much smoother.

Embracing Simplicity with HTML and CSS

Switching gears a bit, Jakub Steiner shares his journey back to basics with HTML and CSS. He’s not a professional web designer, but he’s got a solid foundation in web basics. Jakub has moved away from using site generators, embracing clean and modern HTML and CSS for his projects. It’s like returning to a favorite childhood book, finding comfort in its simplicity and familiarity.

Animations and Accessibility

Then there’s the exciting world of web animations. Bramus gives us a peek into the future with insights from Google I/O 2025. He covers animation durations, easings, and the intriguing CSS @starting-style. Scroll-driven animations and view transitions are also on the table. It’s like watching a magic show where each trick is more mesmerizing than the last.

On a more serious note, Adrian Roselli raises an important issue about accessibility. He’s urging Google to ensure that all web platform features meet WCAG Success Criteria at Level AA. Adrian highlights instances where Google has dropped the ball on accessibility, and he’s not shy about calling them out. It’s a reminder that while we’re building these amazing digital experiences, we can’t forget about making them accessible to everyone.

Print CSS and DevTools

[On the practical side, Bryce Wray tackles the need for print-specific CSS. He’s found a clever way to load print CSS only when needed, using JavaScript. It’s a neat trick that reduces the amount of CSS a website has to deliver. It’s like packing only what you need for a trip, leaving the unnecessary stuff behind.

Meanwhile, James' Coffee Blog shares his love for a particular DevTools feature: Computed CSS. This tool lets you inspect the final value of a CSS property as it applies to a specific element. It’s like having a magnifying glass that reveals the hidden details of a masterpiece.

Building with 11ty and Reflecting on Responsive Design

Clayton Errington takes us through his process of building a simple blog-style website using 11ty. He uses a simple CSS framework and a grid system to display posts. It’s a straightforward approach that feels like assembling a puzzle where each piece fits perfectly.

Finally, Nick Simson reflects on the impact of Ethan Marcotte’s article on Responsive Web Design, published 15 years ago. It was a game-changer, and Nick takes us through the advancements in web design and development since then. It’s like looking back at a pivotal moment in history and seeing how far we’ve come.

These discussions paint a vibrant picture of the current CSS landscape. From modern layouts and logical properties to accessibility and responsive design, there’s a lot to explore. Each author brings their unique perspective, offering insights that are both enlightening and thought-provoking. If you’re curious to dive deeper, I’d recommend checking out their posts for a more detailed look at these topics.