Most web designs we see today look generic. Do you know the reason? Largely because of a lack of knowledge of the different layout options available. A website layout forms the structural foundation for any site, affecting user experience if not done properly 

Yet, too many site owners default to popular templates, neglecting the benefits of a unique arrangement. A customized and simple website layout can better represent the brand, engage users, and guide them through the information on the site.

The simple website layout is attractive primarily because it values functionality. It also offers easy accessibility and quick loading time, thus enhancing the user's experience. With all the different browsers out there, it can be difficult to make the website functional. However, a simple website layout means that you only deploy the features needed for your site to function correctly and provide your users with the things they are looking for.

In this article, Let’s look at the 15 simple website templates and their setup, pricing, and templates. These templates will help you choose one that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and style for your site.

What Do You Mean By a Simple Website Layout?

A simple website layout is a graphical and spatial representation of features on a webpage. It prescribes how content ought to be presented and navigated. This includes headers, texts, images, buttons, and other features that facilitate visiting and interacting with content on a website.

In short, the more organized a structure is, the easier it will be to navigate and find information on a website. A good layout finds the right balance between visual appeal and functionality. It ensures that users can easily find what they are looking for while supporting the brand's style and intent.

15 Best Simple Website Layouts

The following are the popular simple website layouts. Each layout style, however, has characteristics and advantages. So, a suitable style must be selected that corresponds to the brand objectives and target audience. We added setup, pricing, and template examples, with reviews, to help you find the right fit for your website’s needs and goals.

1. Grid Layout

Source: Ikea

The grid layout organizes content in an organized and balanced way. Images, text, or products are represented within identical blocks. It is very flexible, so it works great for sites that need to show multiple items, such as portfolio sites or eCommerce product pages.

Start with a grid-based template on platforms such as WordPress or Wix. You can place your content in columns and rows, which are usually movable by drag-and-drop functionality. You can easily create differentiations in the number of columns, inter-row spacing, and the fine-tuning of alignment. Images should be clear and uniform in size for each one for a clean look.

2. Split-Screen Layout

Source: RedLight.dev

A split-screen layout is ideal for businesses that offer multiple things or messages. The page splits down the middle, so there are two focuses side by side. This layout is perfect for showing comparisons or having customers make a choice. 

Select a split-screen template from your platform's editor or create two columns of equal width. Then, insert content blocks such as text, images, and buttons in each column. If the platform allows, you can also add hover effects, animations, or interactive elements to make it engaging. Insert contrasting colors and images in each section for clear options.

3. Single Column Layout

Source: Wix

This is a simple, linearly structured, single-column layout used for storytelling and most blogs. It gives the user a focused reading path that unfolds from the top down for users who scroll content without interruptions.

This structure will feature a singular column template or block editor in full-width mode, stacking content vertically. You can add elements of content within a linear flow through headings, paragraphs, images, and videos. Again, with enough spacing between elements, it is easier to read. The subtle dividers and background color changes can break up sections without being overwhelming to the reader.

4. Full-Screen Image Layout 

Source: Djdesignerlab

In the full-screen image layout, high-quality images or video backgrounds are displayed to fill the entire viewport to make the perfect first impression. This is ideal for portfolio sites or landing pages where visuals play an important role in grabbing attention.

Start your process by selecting or uploading a high-resolution, responsive image or video on your site editor. The image needs to be optimized for quick loading to avoid delays. Many platforms support the use of overlay text or buttons above full-screen images. 

5. F-Pattern Layout Template

Source: Wix

The F-pattern layout is based on industry research findings on how people's eyes read content in an F-shaped pattern. It means dwelling more on content at the top and left sides. This layout is often used for a large amount of content, such as blogs and articles.

Using an F-pattern template, often with a solid header, a content area aligned to the left, and supplementary content on the right. It consists of key information in the top-left corner of the visual area, such as headlines and images, whereas secondary information follows an F-shape. Guiding headings and bullet points will guide the eye in an F-pattern.

6. Z-Shaped Layout

Source: Webdesign.tutsplus

The concept of a Z-shape layout makes use of the native flow of reading in a Z-shape and performs well on landing pages when calls to action are critical. It is easy to navigate the users through the significant information ahead of the CTA (Call to Action).

Place your headline, support text, images, and CTA buttons on a Z-pattern. Start with a headline at the top-left and end with a CTA at the bottom-right. Use contrasting colors and bold fonts when you have any Z-pattern points.

7. Card Website Layout

Source: UXPin

Card layouts present content in sections as "cards." A card contains a snippet of information, an image, or a link. This layout is perfect for sites with a wide variety of content, as it allows users to find and visit the content that appeals to them the most.

Utilize the card-based template, which is widely available in most free and premium themes for a blog or portfolio. Organize the rows of cards with text and images. All the cards should be the same size to avoid visual imbalance, and if interactive is accessible, a hover effect may be included.

8. Magazine Layout

Source: Colibriwp

The magazine layout is very structured but dynamic, being in the form of a publication. It makes it suitable for content-rich sites, such as blogs, news sites, or online magazines. There are many sections of content with eye-catching featured articles or images.

Begin with a magazine-style template, preferably one that allows you to have multiple content blocks with the proper placement of images. Dedicate the top sections to your featured articles, breaking news, or highlighted content and the second-tier sections to your categories or recent posts. This would also be helpful if you frequently update the content displayed.

9. Asymmetrical Layout

Source: Kiwi

Asymmetrical layouts achieve balance with unbalanced content. They are well-suited for creative portfolios, artistic brands, or any business wishing to create a striking presentation.

Start by selecting a non-symmetrical template or custom-design content blocks of various dimensions and placements. Large image focal points with mixed shapes in intriguing combinations and smaller text parts maintain the balance in the design. This layout is unique, with a splash of artistry, giving it a playful, loose feel.

10. Simple Website Layout

Source: Schweppes.ca

The simple website layout makes enough room for clarity and simplicity by using large white space, clean lines, and minimal distractions. This is rather popular on modern tech sites, personal blogs, and portfolios because it's clear and easy to use a website.

The minimalist template allows the focus to be on white space and simple design. It requires no unnecessary elements and a simple color palette to ensure that it remains a clean layout. Such a template also encourages the use of high-quality images, not excessively, so that the main content will not lose its focus.

11. Sidebar Navigation Layout

Source: Wix

The sidebar navigation layout uses a vertically oriented menu, usually on the left side of the page, for easy access to multiple sections of a site. This type of design layout works well for content-dense sites that require deep navigation, such as eCommerce sites, knowledge bases, or service directories.

First, select a template with sidebar navigation or insert a sidebar in the editor of the platform. The sidebar will position the main categories of sections of the website for easy access. The sidebar should not take up much space but be visible enough to notice while keeping most of the main content central.

12. Parallax Scrolling Layout

Source: Wix

A parallax scrolling layout uses layered images at varying scrolling speeds to create the impression of three-dimensional space. It's an attention-grabbing layout design for immersive storytelling and creating impactful landing pages.

Choose a parallax-ready template, or make it your own by coding from scratch with custom CSS. Use background layers to add dimensionality, and the design requires high-resolution images. Optimize images, but test the website on all devices because this scrolling can get resource-intensive in size.

13. Hero Image Website Layout

Source: Awebco

Hero image layout is an implementation where an attractive large image or video is placed at the top of the homepage. It is wonderful for landing pages and intro sections, primarily because it creates a powerful first impression that draws users in.

You will start your layout with a high-resolution hero image template. Position the image or video at the top of the page and overlay it with text or include a CTA for directing users. Keep the body copy plain and simple, reducing the importance of the image used, and ensure that the image loads faster.

14. Masonry Website Layout

Source: Freefrontend

It organizes content in a grid structure but varies the height of each item. This makes it great for artistically posting pictures, blogs, or pieces in a portfolio.

Choose a masonry grid template. Upload content blocks in various dimensions. Arrange the blocks to create a proper flow of images across the page. This theme can easily fill with images, so image optimization for faster loading is key.

15. Multi-Page Website Layout

Source: Colibriwp

The multi-page layout is the most traditional website structure. It is ideal for businesses or organizations that need to display a significant amount of content across different pages. Each page focuses on a specific aspect, such as services, contact information, or products.

Start with an empty navigation menu pointing to each of the pages. The home page is the landing page and should be linked to all other major sections; for all pages, alignment in style should be established, and then test the navigation for usability.

Wrapping Up

The simple website layout you settle on can take your site to the next level regarding functionality, visual appeal, and the ability to achieve your goals. Whether you're building content to tell an excellent story, sell products, or put together a portfolio that's stunning visually, there's a layout out there to help bring your content forward to be the best it can be. 

With attentive selection and tailoring, your site can shine and offer visitors an experience they remember. Select a layout that best suits your brand and intent to build a site that you'll love and so will your target audience. Neo helps you create an effective one-page website without spending too much. It offers easy access to business and email management tools to streamline your online communication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is the proper choice of website layout crucial? 

The right layout can affect user experience. A visitor can navigate easily around your site, be impressed by it, and be directed toward the key information or calls to action. 

A good layout also achieves higher productivity and conversion rates. 

2. How do I choose a layout suitable for my brand? 

Consider your brand's aims, target audience, and type of content that will appear on the website. For example, portfolio sites thrive well on visually structured layouts, while highly content-intensive blogs would perform better in a single-column or F-pattern layout. 

3. Does any website builder offer these layout templates? 

Many of the best-known platforms, including WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace, offer some template types to win free and paid versions. The paid editions tend to have far more advanced features, such as parallax scrolling or multi-page layouts. 

4. Is a layout template worth paying for? 

Paid templates offer more customization, unique graphics, and much better support. To any business or brand seeking that extra and extremely functional design, such an investment will certainly make your site look more professional and usable.