What’s the difference between a website redesign and a refresh?

TL;DR

A refresh modernizes visuals and content without changing the structure—fast, low-cost, low-risk. A redesign rebuilds the site from the ground up—powerful, strategic, but resource-intensive and requires careful execution (especially for SEO).

Difference Between a Website Redesign and a Refresh

Website Refresh

A website refresh is akin to giving your site a fresh coat of paint—you update its visual style and content but leave the underlying structure largely intact. (cmsMinds)

Typical refresh tasks include:

• Updating colors, fonts, graphics, or replacing outdated images for a modern look.
• Tweaking page layouts slightly, refining navigation, or optimizing page speed.
• Enhancing mobile responsiveness and refreshing SEO elements like meta tags or keywords. (cmsMinds, Webstacks)

Advantages:

• Cost-effective and quicker to implement than a full redesign. (cmsMinds)
• Minimal impact on SEO, preserving rankings and site equity. (cmsMinds, Inkbot Design, Ginger IT Solutions)
• Helps keep your site feeling up-to-date and engaging. (ArcStone)

Website Redesign

A website redesign is a comprehensive overhaul—you rethink and rebuild your site’s design, structure, and often its underlying technology. (cmsMinds)

It typically involves:

• Redefining layout, navigation, information architecture (IA), and user flows.
• Rebranding with new visual identity, logo, typography, or messaging.
• Migrating to a new CMS or tech stack and enhancing features or scalability. (Ginger IT Solutions, Inkbot Design, MakDigital)

Advantages:

• Tailored to solve deeper business problems and long-term goals. (Inkbot Design)
• Supports modern technologies, improved UX, and enhanced functionality. (MakDigital, Savas Labs)
• Positions your site for future growth and adaptability. (MakDigital, Ginger IT Solutions)

Considerations:

• More expensive and time-consuming than a refresh. (cmsMinds)
• Higher risk to SEO, especially if URLs change—requires careful planning like 301 redirects. (Inkbot Design)

Quick Comparison Summary

When to Choose What?

Opt for a Refresh if:

• Your website structure works well but feels stale or out-of-date.(cmsMinds, Ginger IT Solutions, FiveFold Designs)
• You have limited time and budget.(cmsMinds)
• You want to preserve your SEO strength.(cmsMinds, Inkbot Design, Ginger IT Solutions)

Go for a Redesign if:

• Your site is slow, not mobile-friendly, or fundamentally misaligned with your brand.(Inkbot Design, Clutch, MakDigital, LeaseMyMarketing)
• You’re rebranding, introducing major features, or changing your business direction.(Clutch)
• You want to modernize your tech stack or significantly improve UX and scalability.(Inkbot Design)

• Recommended Source
• Title: Website Refresh vs. Redesign: Key Differences and How to Decide
  Published: June 3, 2025
  Why it’s helpful: Offers a clear breakdown of both approaches, their benefits, when to use each, and practical advice.
  URL: https://cmsminds.com/blog/website-refresh-vs-redesign/