Redesigns Need Goals

My goal for redesigning this website is one that I have struggled with time and time again. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for so long that I can’t remember when I first had the idea.

I’m going to design a website that allows me to publish new articles and pages of content, each with a unique layout, using a simple and effective framework I’ve developed from scratch. I’ve had a certain affinity for print design ever since becoming a freelancer several years ago, but never found the right chance to implement my ideas. Well, that’s going to change.

When do I show up?

Starting with this page, this article, I’m acting on my goal. I’m establishing constraints and requirements for each article, each layout, and then implementing them specially for each article. It will add more time and effort to the publishing process, but it will also help sharpen my skills as I go.

Some secondary goals I have for this project include making use of new and exciting CSS features, lighter and better HTML, and a sweet and sexy typography. I want to push the boundaries of the Web using what we have available to us today.

But why?

Aside from being so anxious to jump on a project that incorporates so much print design aspects, I wanted a new challenge. I’ve been toying around with what I learn and pick up from other projects, but nothing has ever stuck for my own taste.

Like many designers will often tell you, they struggle to create a website for themselves. I was one of those designers, but struggled copping with that. If I couldn’t put myself through the same process I use to help clients designer better, how could I continue working doing what I do? Something had to change, and so I chose to act.

To say that I’m not here to prove something would be wrong—I am. I want to prove that the Web can be as well designed as print, that you can construct a framework of CSS and HTML that doesn’t hinder creativity, that beautiful type does exist on the Web, and most importantly, that I can design a website for not just anyone, but for myself, my worst client.

Gettin’ it done, son

Using self clearing divs, a solid vertical rythym, a framework of columns, and special type treatments, I plan on implementing a site that feels more like a magazine than an actual blog post or webpage.

While I haven’t fully figured out how I’ll style everything, I do know that I’ll have my work cut out for me. Key areas of focus from here on out are comments, archives, a table of contents, and my resume. You know, I think this Internet thing is really here to stay.