How can you create a consistent design across multiple pages?

1 Use a common layout

One of the easiest ways to create a consistent design is to use a common layout for all your pages. A common layout can include elements such as a header, a navigation bar, a main content area, a sidebar, and a footer. You can use HTML to structure your layout and CSS to style it. To make your layout responsive and adaptable to different screen sizes, you can use CSS frameworks such as Bootstrap or Tailwind. A common layout can help your users to navigate your website and find the information they need.

2 Use a style guide

Another way to create a consistent design is to use a style guide. A style guide is a document that defines the visual identity and design principles of your website. It can include guidelines for colors, fonts, icons, images, spacing, alignment, and other design elements. You can use a style guide to ensure that your pages have a coherent and harmonious look and feel. You can also use a style guide to communicate your design decisions and expectations to other developers or collaborators.

3 Use a template engine

A template engine is a tool that allows you to generate HTML pages from reusable templates. A template engine can help you to create a consistent design by avoiding code duplication and reducing errors. You can use a template engine to insert dynamic data, logic, and components into your HTML pages. Some popular template engines for web development are EJS, Handlebars, and Pug. A template engine can help you to save time and effort when creating multiple pages with similar structures and contents.

4 Use a component library

A component library is a collection of reusable UI elements that you can use to create your web pages. A component library can help you to create a consistent design by providing you with ready-made and customizable components that follow the same design system. You can use a component library to add features and functionalities to your pages without writing too much code. Some popular component libraries for web development are React Bootstrap, Material UI, and Ant Design. A component library can help you to enhance the user experience and the interactivity of your website.

5 Use CSS variables

CSS variables are custom properties that you can define and use in your CSS code. CSS variables can help you to create a consistent design by allowing you to store and reuse values for colors, fonts, sizes, and other design elements. You can use CSS variables to update your design easily and consistently by changing the values in one place. You can also use CSS variables to create themes and modes for your website, such as dark mode or light mode.

6 Use JavaScript modules

JavaScript modules are files that contain JavaScript code that can be imported and exported by other files. JavaScript modules can help you to create a consistent design by organizing and encapsulating your code into reusable and maintainable units. You can use JavaScript modules to separate your code into different functions, classes, objects, and variables. You can also use JavaScript modules to load your code on demand and improve the performance of your website.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?