TWO-COLUMN LAYOUTS
Two-column layouts are quite popular on the web today. They allow for a generous main content area and usually a narrower column for news, external links, advertisements or vertical navigational. With the latter, the horizontal navigation area may be unnecessary. Here are some sample two-column layouts.

THREE-COLUMN LAYOUTS
Three-column layouts are very useful when more information needs to be presented in a small amount of space. The columns can be created with blocks of color, use of images or simple gridlines that guide the eye of the user. Here are some examples of three-column layouts. Note how they utilize their space.

FREEFORM LAYOUTS
Freeform layouts don’t appear to have an underlying grid. However, they should allow for the logical placement of elements the user expects to find on the page. They tend to have a more artistic feel, often using collaged elements and a creative use of textures, images and typography. The goal with freeform layout is a unique page design while still maintaining a sense of flow and balance. Here are some samples of freeform design. Note the use of white space, so the design doesn’t overwhelm the user.