Layout is the fundamental structure of a page. By selecting the density of modules and sidebar settings, you determine whether the initial draft should be simple or prepared for multiple information blocks.
What you will learn
- Understand the difference between layout, module, and sidebar.
- Select an appropriately dense initial draft.
- Decide if you genuinely need a sidebar.
- Account for the availability of supported modules.
Three choices, three different tasks
Layout determines the overall composition: where the main content will be and how other sections will be arranged around it. Module is a smaller block, such as a menu, logo, search bar, or login form. Sidebar is a side column next to the main content where modules can be placed.
AI will assemble a new template configuration based on these selections. Modules rendered on the canvas are design instances and safe placeholders. Actual content and live behavior will be provided by Joomla and any installed extensions on the target website.
Less is usually a better start
A richer draft can showcase more possibilities, but it also introduces more elements to review. For a straightforward presentation, a more restrained structure is usually sufficient. More modules make sense for a magazine, shop, or portal where visitors require navigation, filters, or supplementary overviews.
Select a sidebar only when it serves a permanent purpose: supplementary navigation, filters, or related content. Do not enable it simply because the option is available. On narrower screens, the sidebar must stack responsibly, and each additional block increases the work required during responsive preview review.
How to go through the choices
- Start with the main content. Decide whether it requires full width or if a supplementary side column should remain permanently beside it.
- Select the closest available layout. Treat it as an initial framework, not an unchangeable rule.
- Set an appropriate module density. For a first project, it is safer to start with fewer items and add additional blocks manually later.
- Enable a left or right sidebar only if there is a clear purpose. If you don't need it, let the main content breathe.
- After generation, review the catalog and canvas. Unnecessary modules can be removed, and missing supported modules can be dragged into position later.
Example of a simple vs. richer draft
A website for a small consulting firm can start without a sidebar: header, main content, a few well-structured sections, and a footer. The visitor flows in one direction without distractions. Conversely, a product catalog with many categories can benefit from a sidebar used for filters or secondary navigation.
Do not confuse module quantity with design quality. A module is only useful if it serves a specific task. After generating, open Layers and try to explain the purpose of each block on the page. If there is no clear answer, feel free to delete the module; if something is missing, insert a supported type from the catalog.
Third-party extensions are not automatically installed
Some website types may assume the presence of supported modules from external extensions. The AI can include them in the design only if permitted by current module policies. You must ensure their actual availability on the target Joomla site separately.