Understanding Website Design Layouts for Modern Websites
In the ever-changing digital age, website design has become one of the most vital elements in providing an optimal user experience. A strong and effective website design layout should consider how the user feels and interacts with the site, as well as its aesthetics. Furthermore, a proper layout can improve conversion rates, increase average time on page, and boost a brand’s reputation.
Therefore, this article will introduce you to the most effective website design layouts for modern sites, along with examples of successful tips and implementations.
Table of Contents
Grid-Based Layout
Firstly, we have grid-based design layouts. It is one of the most commonly used designs in modern websites. This layout utilizes a grid system to arrange elements on the page, creating a clean, tidy, and organized appearance. The grid helps maintain visual consistency and balance.
The main advantages of this website design layout are its ease of navigation, alignment of elements, and its ability to adapt to various screen sizes (responsive design). This grid-based layout is very suitable for e-commerce sites, portfolios, and news websites.
Pinterest is an example of a website that makes excellent use of a grid-based layout. This website presents photographs in a grid setup, allowing users to easily browse and discover contents that interest them.
If you want to create website design layouts like this, then you can use tools and frameworks like CSS Grid or Bootstrap to implement them. A simple tip: use adjustable grid sizes to ensure that the layout remains responsive across multiple devices.
One Column Layout
This website design layout is a design that arranges all content in a single vertical column. This design offers a minimalist approach and focuses on content presentation.
The advantages of this layout are:
- Simplicity
- Clear readability
- Better performance on mobile devices.
- It’s easier to focus on the content.
Medium is an example of a platform that uses this website’s layout design very effectively. This layout facilitates comfortable reading of articles without distractions, thus increasing the time readers spend on the site. Personal blogs often use this layout to present content that is focused and easily accessible.
When using this website design layout, make sure the content displayed adds value and is relevant to the readers. You can also use visual elements like images or videos to maintain user attention.
Split-Screen Layout
This website design layout divides the screen into two parts, allowing two pieces of content to be displayed simultaneously. The advantage of this layout is that it provides flexibility in showcasing two complementary elements, thereby enhancing engagement and enabling users to make easier choices.
Squarespace and Apple are examples of websites that effectively use a split screen layout. Squarespace, for instance, utilizes this website design layout to display templates on one side and additional information on the other, making it easier for users to make decisions.
Tips for split-screen layout: When designing a split-screen layout, it is important to maintain visual balance between both sides of the screen. Additionally, you need to ensure that both elements have equal weight to avoid one side dominating.
This website design layout divides the screen into two parts, allowing two pieces of content to be displayed simultaneously. The advantage of this layout is that it provides flexibility in showcasing two complementary elements, thereby enhancing engagement and enabling users to make easier choices.
Asymmetrical Layout
An asymmetrical layout is a design that breaks the symmetry of conversion and creates an unconventional balance between elements on the page. The advantage of this website design layout is its ability to create visual interest and emphasize certain elements. Asymmetry can make a website feel more dynamic and modern, which can help create a strong first impression.
Sites like Awwwards and Behance use asymmetrical layouts to differentiate themselves from competitors. By utilizing empty space and contrasting elements, they successfully create an attractive and captivating appearance.
If you are interested in using this website design layout, it is important to effectively utilize white space and avoid an excess of elements that can make the page feel cluttered. Focus on the elements you want to highlight and use contrasting colors or images to draw attention.
Magazine Layout
This website design layout uses a multi-column and grid-based approach to provide many kinds of contents. This design is similar to a print magazine layout, with an emphasis on strong visuals and typography.
The advantages of magazine layouts:
- Flexibility in presenting contents
- The ability to tell stories visually.
- Increasing engagement through various attractive layouts.
Websites like The New York Times and Wired use a magazine layout to present news content and long articles in an engaging and accessible way. Also, this layout allows readers to quickly and efficiently explore various articles.
To implement a magazine-style layout, it is important to consider content organization and visual hierarchy. Use strong images, engaging typography, and a flexible grid structure to create an enjoyable reading experience.
Full-page Layout
This website design layout is a type of minimalist layout that is rarely found nowadays. However, if we implement this type of layout well, it can be incredibly effective. As the name suggests, this layout means placing all information in a single full-page view without the need to scroll. The main advantage of a full-page layout is its ability to focus on a single message or visual element without distractions. In addition, this design is very suitable for a website that wants to create a strong visual impression and convey information in an engaging way.
One example of a very good full-page layout is from a web and design agency called Curious & Company. From the homepage to the “About Us” and “Services” pages, each is displayed in a full-page view. Thanks to their highly creative motion design, they are able to provide all the necessary information while keeping users engaged.
Tips for Full-page Layout Tips
If you want to use this type of layout, it’s important to focus on visual design and engaging interactive elements. Use animations and smooth transitions to direct users’ attention to key points, and ensure that each page has a clear and concise message.
To summarize, in this article, we have discussed some of the most effective website design layouts for modern websites, ranging from grid-based layouts, single-column, split-screen, asymmetric, to full-page layouts. Each type of layout has its own advantages and applications, depending on the goals and audience of the website.
All in all, don’t hesitate to experiment with various design layouts and analyze their performance using data and user feedback. If you feel you need further assistance, go to a professional designer to optimize your website.
