When I built my first web page in my college days, I could say I was a bit confused. Even though I was having 100’s of ready-made design templates, I found myself moving design elements around the page without any progress in making the site attractive.
If you’re feeling the same way, confused and frustrated while designing your web page, don’t worry. You don’t have to face the same challenges I did. In this article, we’ll cover some basic tips for website layout design and also share some website layout design ideas to make your website stand out from others.
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The Basics of Page Layout Design
Do you also don’t have artistic skills but want to create an appealing and attractive web page?
Creating a new appealing and attractive web page with so many elements and sections can be tricky, but Luckily there are some basic rules you can follow to help you design an attractive web page. Let us understand each of these golden rules below-
1. Use a Grid System to Balance Your Page
A grid system helps you to organize the content on your web page. Imagine your page is being divided into rows and columns, like a table. By placing your text, images, and other elements within these rows and columns, you can ensure that everything looks neat and balanced.
2. Follow the “Rule of Thirds”
The rule of thirds is a simple way to place important elements on your page. Suppose your page is divided into three equal parts, both horizontally and vertically, creating nine squares. The key idea is to place the most important content along the lines. This makes the page more visually pleasing and draws attention to the most important parts.
3. Utilise the Negative Space on a Web Page
Negative space are basically white space or we can say the empty area around your content. It might seem like wasted space, but it’s actually very important. Negative space gives your content room to breathe, making it easier for users to read and understand.
Content without a negative space or very minimal negative space can confuse users and they might find it difficult to navigate.
4. Consider the Rule of Odds
The rule of odds suggests that an odd number of elements on a page is more appealing than an even number. For example, if you’re showing images or icons, using three or five instead of two or four can make the design more interesting and balanced.
5. Set a Hierarchy for Your Content
Hierarchy means organizing your content so that the most important information stands out. This can be done by using different font sizes, colors, or placing important elements at the top of the page. When you set a clear hierarchy, visitors can easily find and understand the key points on your page.
By following these simple rules, you can create a web page that is not only attractive but also easy to navigate, making it a pleasant experience for your visitors.
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Website Layout Design Ideas
There are bundles of ready-made website layout design templates available over the internet, but the main question that often comes to mind is “When to use a particular website layout design?”
But don’t worry we are here to help you, Let us understand the top 10 best website layout design ideas and get a clear insight about which one to use and when.
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1. Full-Screen Photo Layout
A Full-Screen Photo Layout uses a large image as the main background, covering the entire page. Text, navigation buttons, and action buttons are usually placed over the image. This layout immediately grabs attention with a bright, eye-catching photo.
When to use it: If you have high-quality images that can stand out in the market, then this layout is perfect for you. It helps to make your products or services look more appealing and are generally hard to ignore.
2. Card-Based Layout
A Card-Based website layout design is used for organizing different parts of your homepage into cards or boxes. This layout keeps things neat and makes it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for.
When to use it: This website layout design is great if you’re showcasing different products or blog posts. It is clear, easy to navigate, and lets you highlight multiple pieces of content at once.
3. Hero Section Layout
A Hero Section Layout is similar to the full-screen photo layout but focuses on a banner image at the top of the page. Navigation features are usually placed above the image, while text, icons, and buttons can be placed on or below the image.
When to use it: Hero layouts work well for almost any website or business. They capture attention with a high-quality image and allow you to promote specific products or services.
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4. Animation Layout
An Animation Layout brings your page to life by setting elements in motion. It can draw attention to a specific part of the page or just create a fun and interactive experience for users.
When to use it: Use this layout to highlight something important or to show your product in action. It’s engaging and keeps users interested.
5. Masonry Layout
A Masonry Layout is like a card-based layout but with a twist. Instead of evenly sized boxes, this layout uses boxes of different shapes and sizes that fit together like a puzzle.
When to use it: If you have a collection of images to display or multiple products to showcase then this layout will work well. It makes each image stand out because of the unique box shapes and sizes.
6. Full-Screen Background Video Layout
A Full-Screen Background Video Layout uses a video as the main background on your homepage. This video loops continuously without interruption, providing a dynamic and visually appealing background.
When to use it: This layout is best when you have a video that flows smoothly and doesn’t distract viewers. It adds a unique touch to your homepage and keeps visitors engaged.
7. Grid-Breaking Layout
A Grid-Breaking Layout bends the rules of a traditional grid layout. It tweaks and adjusts the grid, creating a modern and interesting look.
When to use it: This layout can give your site a fresh, contemporary feel. However, it might require some time and expertise to design correctly, depending on the tools you’re using.
8. Alternate Layout
An Alternating Layout balances text and images in alternating columns. This helps break the monotony and keeps readers interested as they scroll down the page.
When to use it: This is ideal for promoting blog posts or any content where you want to pair images with descriptions. It gives visitors a preview of what each post or product is about.
9. Featured Image Layout
A Featured Image Layout places a large image on one side of the page with text on the other side. This is great for highlighting important information about your brand, products, or services.
When to use it: Use this layout to promote a specific offer or product, similar to a landing page. It’s also effective for blog posts that focus on visual content.
10. Split-Screen Layout
A Split-Screen Layout divides the page into two equal parts. This creates a two-tone background that can either remain as the reader scrolls or change to keep things interesting.
When to use it: Split-screen designs are versatile and can be used for any type of website. They offer a modern look and can easily align with your brand’s color scheme.
11. Interactive Layout
An Interactive Layout allows visitors to interact with different elements on your website. They can click, drag, and drop elements, making the browsing experience more engaging.
When to use it: This layout is all about fun. If you’re a developer or freelancer, it’s a great way to showcase your web design skills and keep visitors entertained.
12. Portfolio Layout
A Portfolio Layout is designed to showcase your work. It typically features a large image on one side and text on the other, providing information about the artist or project.
When to use it: If you’re an artist, freelancer, or digital marketer, this layout is ideal for displaying your work and sharing contact details with potential clients.
13. Magazine Layout
A Magazine Layout is similar to what you’d see in a magazine, with sections for various types of content. It allows you to present a lot of information in an organized and visually appealing way.
When to use it: This layout is perfect for websites with lots of articles, like news sites or blogs, where you want to highlight different stories and keep readers engaged.
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Website Layout Design FAQs
How do I choose the right layout for my website?
To choose the right layout, consider the purpose of your website, the type of content you want to showcase, and your target audience. For example, a portfolio layout is ideal for artists, while a card-based layout is great for blogs or e-commerce sites.
How can I make my website layout mobile-friendly?
To make your website layout mobile-friendly, use a responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes. Ensure that text is readable, images load correctly, and navigation is easy to use on mobile devices.
How does the layout design affect website loading speed?
The layout design can impact loading speed, especially if it includes large images, videos, or complex animations. To optimize loading speed, use compressed images, limit the use of heavy elements, and ensure that your design is clean and efficient.
