In the dynamic world of WordPress website design, the ability to adapt and utilize various layout elements can significantly enhance the user experience. WordPress developers and enthusiasts need to understand and implement this transformation effectively as the trend shifts from traditional container layouts to more versatile column structures. In this blog, I will show you how to convert from container to column WordPress.
Containers and Columns in WordPress
Before diving into the conversion process, let’s clarify what containers and columns are in the context of WordPress design:
Container
Definition: A container encases the Content as the outermost element in a WordPress page. It is crucial in controlling the Content’s width, alignment, and positioning.
Purpose: The primary use of a container is to maintain a consistent content width, aiding in readability and ensuring a cohesive aesthetic across various screen sizes.
Implementation: Typically, containers are implemented using HTML elements like <div> or <section>. WordPress themes often come with predefined container styles.
Column
Definition: Columns are layout structures dividing Content into vertical sections, allowing for a side-by-side or grid-like presentation of different content types.
Purpose: They enhance the organization and aesthetic appeal of the Content, making it more engaging and readable.
Implementation Methods
Gutenberg Blocks: The Gutenberg editor includes a “Columns” block for easy column creation.
Page Builders: Plugins like Beaver Builder, Elementor, and Divi provide intuitive interfaces for crafting column layouts.
Custom CSS: Columns can be defined using custom CSS styles for advanced customization.
Why Shift from Container to Column Layout?
The transition from container to column layout can revolutionize your WordPress site for several reasons:
Improved Readability: By breaking Content into smaller sections, columns make text more manageable and easier to read.
Visual Appeal: Columns create a structured look, enhancing the site’s visual hierarchy and aesthetics.
Organized Content: Columns aid in better content organization and are practical for presenting related information side by side.
Responsive Design: Column layouts adapt better to various screen sizes, ensuring a consistent user experience.
Design Versatility: With columns, you can experiment with multiple layouts, from simple two-column designs to complex grids.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to convert from container to column in WordPress
1. Backup Your WordPress Website
Before any significant changes, create a backup. This safety net allows you to restore your site in case of errors or mishaps.
2. Choose a Theme or Page Builder with Column Features
Select a WordPress theme or a page builder plugin that supports column layouts. Factors to consider include responsive design, compatibility, and customization options.
3. Install & Activate Your Choice
Once you’ve chosen a theme or page builder, you are installing and activating the theme or page builder. Follow any setup instructions to ensure proper configuration.
4. Select the Container
Identify the container where you wish to implement the column structure in your current layout. This could be a specific page or a section within a page.
5. Open Block Settings
If using Gutenberg, open the block settings to access options related to columns, such as the number of columns and their respective widths.
6. Configure the Column Layout
Configure your column layout in the block settings by adjusting the number of columns, widths, and alignments.
7. Add and Arrange Content
Place various content elements (text, images, videos, widgets) within your columns. Use the drag-and-drop functionality for easy arrangement.
8. Preview and Test Responsiveness
Preview your layout on different devices to ensure it’s responsive and functional. Make necessary adjustments for optimal display across all screen sizes.
9. Save Changes and Publish
Once satisfied, save your changes and publish the updated layout. Continuously monitor and tweak based on user feedback and analytics.
Wrapping Up: The Column Layout
WordPress’s transition from a container to a column layout is about more than just following the trend. It’s about enhancing the user experience, improving content presentation, and ensuring your site stays relevant in the ever-evolving digital landscape. By understanding the core concepts and following the detailed steps outlined, you can effectively make this shift, resulting in a more dynamic, responsive, and visually appealing WordPress site.
