Bug 507709

Summary: [Feature Request] Option to Use a Slim Bar Design for the "Show Desktop" Widget
Product: [Plasma] plasmashell Reporter: Brandow <brandowlucas>
Component: Show Desktop/Minimize All widgetsAssignee: Plasma Bugs List <plasma-bugs-null>
Status: RESOLVED INTENTIONAL    
Severity: wishlist CC: kdedev, nate
Priority: NOR    
Version First Reported In: master   
Target Milestone: 1.0   
Platform: Other   
OS: Linux   
Latest Commit: Version Fixed In:
Sentry Crash Report:

Description Brandow 2025-07-31 19:12:42 UTC 
SUMMARY

Currently, the "Show Desktop" widget in KDE appears as a small square button by default. While functional, the square design can feel visually disconnected from the overall panel aesthetic and is often considered less elegant. Many users familiar with Windows are accustomed to a subtle bar-style button, which blends seamlessly into the panel while remaining easy to access.

Proposal:

Introduce an alternative default style for the "Show Desktop" widget: a slim vertical bar that integrates naturally with the panel edge.

Provide a settings option to switch between the current square design and the new bar design, so users can choose according to preference.

Consider making the bar design the default for new installations, as it offers a cleaner and more modern appearance.


Benefits:

Improves visual consistency with the panel and reduces the “boxy” feel of the square button.

Enhances appeal for new users coming from Windows, where a slim bar is the familiar standard.

Offers a modernized aesthetic that aligns with KDE’s reputation for flexibility and elegance.

Preserves user choice by keeping the current square option available.
Comment 1 TraceyC 2025-08-04 22:34:02 UTC 
Passing this along for the developers to consider
Comment 2 Nate Graham 2025-09-24 19:18:41 UTC 
There are 3rd-party widgets that do this, and you're welcome to use one of them.

We're not trying to create a clone of Windows here, though. How does the design feel disconnected from the overall panel aesthetic? The rest of the panel is also full of small icons. And who considers it less elegant? If that's you, then like I mentioned, you're welcome to use one of the 3rd-party alternatives.

So user choice is already here. I'm going to have to close the request now.

https://community.kde.org/Get_Involved/Design/Frequently_Discussed_Topics#Copying_other_platforms may be a useful read, if you want to know what's behind KDE's thoughts here.