Column-based visual layout

A column-based visual layout means that all of a page's contents are divided between a number of columns (these are visual columns, you can read more about technical columns in a relevant article). Each column is separate block of information. Each block is separated from others both logically and content-wise, and the content inside each of the blocks represents a single unit of information.

Depending on the specific contents and aims of a website, the number and size of the columns may vary. A classic variety is a wider column with one or two more narrow as additions. There are many column-based layouts, and each of the is special in its own way and is used differently.

Three columns layout

As it has already been mentioned, a three columns layout is a classic page layout, which is also used by most websites. This design is simple, easily understandable, and is good at showing the hierarchy of the content - the main information is located in the wider columns, while the additional is in the narrow ones. The three columns layout can be modified by changing the widths of the columns, as well as their relative positioning.

If the main advantage of the three columns layout is its simplicity, them the main disadvantage is that it is rather boring and unoriginal. As this particular layout is used by the majority of websites, it does not stand out in any way. It can be diversified, though, by making all the three columns of equal width, or making the header two columns wide, so that the whole page (not only the main content) looks divided into three columns.

Four columns layout

A four columns layout allows more design types, as the placement and size of each column can be modified. As a result of that, there is quite a number of possible combinations, and each can be enhanced by applying a distinct design to each of columns. This type of layout requires the content hierarchy to be shown, and it is usually achieved by either cutting the content of additional columns or using a separate design for some of them. It is also possible to change the widths of the columns, but it is not always a good idea - some columns will be too narrow, making the overall design look worse.

The main disadvantage of the four columns layout is that it look highly symmetrical. Sometimes it is justified and necessary, but sometimes - too boring. This can be compensated by using other design tools - colours, fonts, graphics, etc.

Six columns layout

The six columns layout is remarkable because of the number of columns - such a layout is a very specialized design tool. It allows including many details that would potentially make the layout a lot more original than any other kinds of design. On the other hand, the development of a six columns design is time- and resource-demanding, and the layout itself is only suitable for very specific website types.

In general, a six columns layout is employed by websites wishing to present a big number of products or informational blocks within a single page. For example, famous brands use the layout to present new product lines - there are six columns used, and each of them represents its own product with an illustration and a short description. A six columns layout are also used by blogs and news portals, as that allows simultaneously offering a number of articles to choose from.

A six columns layout is not recommended to websites without the actual need of dividing all the information in small pieces or simultaneously presenting a number of information blocks. An unneeded use of six columns just makes working with a website more difficult and discourages users.

Other layouts

Naturally, any number of columns can be used, as well as there are no restrictions on their style, size and location - everything depends on the aims of each particular website. Besides that, the amount of information, its structure and hierarchy also must be taken into consideration, so as not to divide the information in too many parts. It is important to remember that each column is a distinct design part, and the more parts there are, the more difficult it is to use a website.