Challenges and Benefits of Squarespace 7.1 Fluid Engine (After Over a Year of Use)

Some time ago, Squarespace introduced the Fluid Engine as the next stage of their 7.1 version. They sold it as a game-changer for web designers and developers, offering robust and flexible tools. However, it came with issues that still need to be resolved entirely. This article delves into the capabilities of the Fluid Engine, highlighting its features, advantages, and disadvantages, especially for multimedia specialists like myself but also for the occasional user who wants to delve into creating their own web presence.

The Fluid Engine in Squarespace 7.1 offers advanced layout options and enhanced customisation. This significantly enhances the flexibility and functionality of the design process. A standout feature of this new design system is its advanced grid layouts, which provide a more intuitive way to organise content. These grids allow for the precise placement of elements, enabling creative freedom and complex design structures. Customisation options include resizing, alignment, and spacing adjustments, making it easier to create visually compelling layouts. One of the key strengths of Squarespace was that the classic editor would almost seamlessly adapt from desktop to mobile due to its rigid structure. Now, with the Fluid Engine, it's easier to move elements around and adjust the order and position of the elements without using extra CSS code. The Fluid Engine also expands the functionality of content blocks. Users can add text, images, videos, and other elements more efficiently and flexibly. New block features in 7.1 include improved drag-and-drop capabilities, more precise positioning, and additional customisation options, allowing for a richer user experience. The use of the grid and the fact that text boxes and images can be resized individually and do not snap together make it a compelling addition to the classic editor for the creative mind that wants to go beyond the fixed layout.

However, with the introduction of the Fluid Engine, the mobile version now requires manual checking during the creation process, especially for spacing issues that must be adjusted manually. It's also crucial to check the layout on a proper mobile phone, as the built-in mobile preview does not always reflect the actual device's appearance. While the Fluid Engine's responsive design features are helpful, manual adjustments may be necessary to ensure a seamless mobile experience. Spacing issues can often arise, especially with more complex layouts. Pay close attention to margins, padding, and alignment to maintain a clean and organised appearance. If you encounter persistent spacing challenges, consider simplifying your design or reverting to the classic editor for straightforward projects. In fact, if a design is simple, I still prefer to work with the classic editor. It provides a more streamlined approach, which can be beneficial for less complex projects.

Overall, I find the Fluid Engine useful for allowing creative sections and reducing the amount of code needed to make those sections pop, making updates easily manageable for any user. However, using an expert like myself is beneficial for a professional web presence. I can effortlessly make your vision a reality without you having to go through the frustration of achieving those results on your own. If you need help, feel free to reach out, and we can discuss your needs and vision to make your web presence a reality.