Elevate Your Squarespace Website: Make It Unique, Not Template-Like
Squarespace is a popular platform for creating stunning websites, and its templates are a fantastic starting point. However, we want your site to stand out and reflect your unique style, rather than looking like a generic template. As a Squarespace web designer, i’d like to share some tips and tricks to make your Squarespace website look more custom and less like a template.
Choose the Right Template
The first step in creating a unique Squarespace website is to choose a template that aligns with your vision. Select a template that offers the basic structure you need but also provides room for customization. Squarespace offers a wide variety of templates, so take your time and explore them before making a decision.
Know that with the latest version of Squarespace (7.1) you won’t be stuck with any of the design or features in the template and you can add or change every design element. You’ll have access to all Squarespace has to offer no matter the template. Think of it as a good starting point, rather than something you’re beholden to.
Personalize the Design
Squarespace allows you to customize your website's design extensively.
Here's how you can make your design stand out:
Color Palette: Adjust the color scheme to match your brand or personal style. Use your brand colors or explore color psychology to convey the right message.
Fonts: Squarespace offers a range of fonts. Select fonts that reflect your website's personality, but don't go overboard. Stick to two or three fonts for a consistent look.
Layouts: Tweak the layout to create a unique structure for your pages. You can adjust the spacing, margins, and padding to achieve a more custom look.
Add Custom Graphics and Images
To make your Squarespace website truly unique, incorporate custom graphics and images. High-quality, original visuals can set your site apart from others.
Consider:
Custom Photography: Invest in professional photography or create your own images. Unique visuals make a significant difference. Pull stock photos that reflect your brands colors and vibe in a consistent way.
Illustrations and Icons: Design or commission custom illustrations or icons that reflect your brand's identity.
Backgrounds: Experiment with background images and videos. These can add depth and uniqueness to your site.
Create a Unique Logo
Your logo is the face of your brand. Design a unique and memorable logo that represents your website's identity. You can create a logo in graphic design software or hire a professional designer to help you.
As a brand designer, I provide my clients with a few different logo formats - primary, secondary, a submark or icon that can be used to customize the favicon on a website, brand patterns that make great backgrounds for testimonials or other sections. Working with a professional will provide a variety of custom branded elements that can be used throughout your website to truly make it unique.
Be sure to display your logo at a large enough size and adjust the logo size on both desktop and mobile settings within Squarespace.
Add Personalized Content
Custom content can make your Squarespace website feel less like a template and more like a reflection of your personality or brand.
Here's how:
About Page: Write a compelling "About" page that tells your story and why your business is unique.
Blog Posts: Craft original, informative, and engaging blog content that showcases your expertise.
Testimonials and Reviews: Feature genuine testimonials and reviews to build trust and show your uniqueness.
Utilize Custom Code
Squarespace allows you to inject custom CSS and JavaScript code. This is a powerful way to enhance your website's functionality and appearance. You can create custom animations, add interactive elements, or fine-tune the design to your liking. If you're not proficient in coding, consider hiring a Squarespace designer to help. I utilize unique code when possible to make my client’s sites look custom and unique.
