How to Change Template on Squarespace

Every so often, there is a chance to look at your Squarespace website and decide that it isn’t what you wanted. You wanted to have a website that had something different. Whether that was more video, more images, or a blog design. Therefore, you want to know how to change the template on Squarespace. In this article, we provide that information.

Squarespace 7.0 vs Squarespace 7.1

The first thing that we need to look at is the difference between Squarespace 7.0 and Squarespace 7.1. In the former, you would change a template as often as you would like to get the look you wanted and new features.

And it was perfect for those who had a template family in use that had several variances. For example, Brine had 45 different styles for you to choose from. Switching at this stage was easy.

However, in 7.1, when you choose the template, your website is locked. So, with the Squarespace 7.1 option, there is no risk of not having the features. Every template provides the same level of functionality.

How to Change Template on Squarespace 7.0

To change the template on Squarespace 7.0 you will have to create a cover page, with an under-construction message and then set this as your homepage.

Then to get the new template, you can click on Design and then Template. Then find and select the template that you would like to have. You can click on the preview to see what the new template will look like on your website. Then you can click on ‘Set as Live Template’.

Then you can make changes to your website as you would like the Site Styles setting.

If you don’t like a new template, you can switch back and the old template will have retained the styling setting that you have on your website.

How to Change Template on Squarespace 7.1

The instructions for how to change the template on Squarespace 7.1 are relatively easy, you restart your business’ website and use a new template. The important thing to note is that while your website’s content can be retained or copied, data within the website cannot. If you have a lot of existing data, such as product orders, customer accounts, analytics, and email campaigns, you can find that you lose all that information.

One of the best options is to start a new website, with a trial period that is free for you. Then you can select the template that you would like to use and start making the changes. You can copy all the content that you need from the old website.

When you’ve finished with the website design and content, you can close your old account down and transfer the domain over to the new website. It sounds easy, but it takes a long time to complete. And therefore, you might use up your whole trial period creating the new website.

Changing Templates in Squarespace: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing your Squarespace template can rejuvenate your website's look and functionality. This guide provides a straightforward approach to updating your site's template, ensuring a hassle-free transition, and keeping your site's aesthetic fresh and engaging.

Identifying Your Current Squarespace Version

It's essential to know whether your site is on Squarespace 7.0 or 7.1, as this determines the template change process. In the dashboard, under 'Help', you can find your version. This information guides the next steps in the template change process, ensuring compatibility and smooth implementation.

Selecting a New Template in Squarespace 7.0

For users on Squarespace 7.0, changing templates involves browsing through the template library under 'Design'. After selecting 'Install New Template', you can preview and choose a new look. Remember, each template in 7.0 has unique features and styles, offering a range of options to suit different website needs.

Transitioning to Squarespace 7.1

For those on Squarespace 7.0 looking to upgrade, moving to 7.1 requires starting a new site. This version offers a unified template system with extensive customization options. However, it's a significant change, akin to building a new site, and should be approached with careful planning to ensure a smooth transition.

Optimizing Your Squarespace Template Change

A successful template change involves not only technical steps but also strategic planning. This section covers key considerations to ensure your website remains effective and engaging post-template change.

Preserving SEO and Site Functionality

When changing templates, it's crucial to maintain your site's SEO and functionality. Ensure all URLs remain consistent or set up proper redirects. Also, check that all features and content are correctly transferred to the new template. This careful approach helps preserve your site's search engine rankings and user experience.

Customizing the New Template

Once a new template is chosen, customization is key to aligning it with your brand. Adjust site styles, fonts, and colors to match your aesthetic. Utilize the design tools provided by Squarespace to make your site unique and reflective of your brand. Personalization is vital to stand out and resonate with your audience.

Testing and Feedback

Before finalizing the template change, thoroughly test your site. Check for any broken links, display issues, or functionality problems. Gathering feedback from users can also provide valuable insights for further refinements. This step ensures that your new template not only looks good but also functions seamlessly for your visitors.

After customizing your new template and ensuring it aligns with your brand, remember that the overall design and layout play a crucial role in your site's success. For more insights on optimizing your site's aesthetics, check out our guide on Squarespace Templates Design and Layout.

Conclusion: How to Change Template on Squarespace

Above are the instructions on how to change the template on Squarespace. It covers both Squarespace 7.0 and Squarespace 7.1. But the question you must ask is why are you making the change?