Once you’ve completed your basic website setup, you can start building the final product! Knowing how to build a website can be a challenge, so we’ve outlined some key steps for you to follow.
Choosing The Right Platform
If you haven’t already used a website platform for setting up your domain, now is the time to choose one.
Website builders are designed to help you create your dream website with no coding required. But with multiple platforms available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve summarized 3 of the top website builders and their unique benefits.
Framer
- Purpose: A visual website builder with a strong focus on design-first, interactive sites.
- Key features: Advanced animation tools
- Great for: Portfolios, landing pages, product marketing sites, and startups.
Webflow
- Purpose: A no-code web design and CMS platform that bridges visual design with front-end development.
- Key features: Strong CMS and SEO capabilities
- Great for: Business websites, agencies, marketing teams, and small e-commerce sites.
Ghost
- Purpose: A content publishing platform and headless CMS built for speed and simplicity.
- Key features: Built-in memberships, subscriptions and other monetisation features.
- Great for: Blogs, magazines, newsletters, and creator subscription sites.
How To Build a Website in 4 Steps
Now that you’ve chosen your platform, you can focus on refining your website content and design.
1. Choose a template
A pre-made website template is a great way to kickstart your website design, saving you time and helping you avoid ‘blank canvas paralysis’.
Our professionally-designed Coastal Themes templates come with built-in SEO and access to 24/hour support from our expert team. Each template is also fully customizable, meaning you can tailor it to your exact needs.
2. Adjust layout and design
Once you’ve chosen your base template, you can begin customizing the layout and design. Although there will usually be minimal changes beyond adding in your content, it’s always a good idea to consult web design tutorials for guidance.
Additionally, most website builders utilize modular design elements like components. These reusable features allow for increased consistency and scalability, ensuring your website looks sleek and professional no matter what.
Design tip: You can boost efficiency by setting up a consistent style guide (featuring colors, fonts etc.) before adding your website content.
3. Check website responsiveness
It’s important to make sure that your website looks right and functions on a variety of screen sizes.
Most website templates will come with built-in responsive design features. You can check this by previewing your site on different devices like a desktop, tablet, and cellphone.
4. Avoid common mistakes
There are several mistakes to look out for when it comes to website design. Here are some of the most common examples:
- Too many fonts: Can make your website feel unprofessional and decrease readability.
- Clashing colors: Can overwhelm users and distract them from important information.
- Oversized images: Can slow down your website loading time and increase user frustration.
Next Steps
You’re almost there! Your site is built and ready to go, but before you hit the publish button, don’t forget to complete the tasks on our essential website launch checklist.
