I am trying to create a simple and clean web interface for my web app. I am using bootstrap. However, I cannot find any complete and sane tutorial/ebook on the web that explains clearly how to create a well designed web page. I am looking for the basics here, but also for practicalities, for example, the app should look decent on IE7.
Do you have any recommendations?
In my opinion, good design is not going to be something that can be learned from a book or guide but is learned from trial and error. Design your app, get other people's candid opinions and refine. Then repeat. Be open to what they say and don't think too highly of your design as it will most likely suck at first. (Mine always do)
What can be learned from a book is the fundamentals and the language. Here are some resources to get you started:
http://psd.tutsplus.com/articles/inspiration/teach-yourself-...
http://sixrevisions.com/web_design/a-look-into-color-theory-...
http://www.graphicdesignblog.co.uk/top-mistakes-new-designer...
Also, it might be wise to expand your learning to general design instead of just graphic or web design. This will get you thinking differently about how to solve problems in general.