Building a Magazine-Style Layout with Multiple Query Loops in WordPress

Discover how to create a visually engaging magazine-style layout in WordPress using multiple query loops.

Published:

Filed Under:

WordPress

Kyle Van Deusen

The Admin Bar

Born in California and raised in Texas, Kyle is a husband and proud father of three. After spending 15 years as a graphic designer and earning a business degree, he launched OGAL Web Design in 2017, The Admin Bar community with Matt Sebert in 2018, and Docket WP with Andre Gagnon in 2020.

the blog
This content contains affiliate links. View our affiliate disclaimer.

Designing a magazine-style layout in WordPress offers a visually interesting and dynamic presentation for your content. With multiple query loops, you can achieve this effect and create a more engaging browsing experience. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps to create a magazine-style layout using multiple query loops using GenerateBlocks.

Step 1: Set up the main query loop for the featured post

Begin by creating a container with two columns. The left column will display the featured post, while the right column will showcase additional posts. To set up the main query loop for the featured post, follow these steps:

  1. Insert the Query Loop block in the left column.
  2. Customize the query loop to display only one post.
  3. Apply any desired styling to the featured post.

Step 2: Create a secondary query loop for additional posts

In the right column, insert another Query Loop block to display additional posts. Customize this query loop to show a specific number of posts and use the offset parameter to avoid displaying the same featured post.

Step 3: Customize the layout for tablet and mobile views

As you switch between tablet and mobile views, adjust the styling and layout to ensure that the design remains visually appealing and functional. For example, you might stack the two columns on top of each other for tablet view or adjust the text size for mobile view.

Step 4: Apply custom CSS for aspect ratio, borders, and padding

To ensure that images maintain their aspect ratio and to create borders between posts, apply custom CSS to the featured post image and secondary posts grid. This will help to future-proof the layout and create a consistent look across different devices.

Step 5: Utilize categories for better control of featured posts

To have more control over which post appears in the featured spot, add a taxonomy parameter to the main query loop. By selecting a specific category (e.g., “Featured”), you can quickly determine which post will be displayed in the featured position.

Wrapping Up

By following these steps, you can create a visually engaging magazine-style layout in WordPress using multiple query loops. This approach allows for a more dynamic browsing experience, showcasing your content in a way that captures the reader's attention. Experiment with different layout styles and customizations to find the perfect design for your website.

Share this article!

Kyle Van Deusen

The Admin Bar

Born in California and raised in Texas, Kyle is a husband and proud father of three. After spending 15 years as a graphic designer and earning a business degree, he launched OGAL Web Design in 2017, The Admin Bar community with Matt Sebert in 2018, and Docket WP with Andre Gagnon in 2020.

Come Join Us!

Join the #1 WordPress Community and dive into conversations covering every aspect of running an agency!

Kyle Van Deusen

Community Manager

The Friday Chaser

Wash down the week with the best of The Admin Bar! News, tips, and the best conversations delivered straight to your inbox every Friday!

Latest Events

February 10th, 2023

Choosing the Right Host For YOUR Needs

With so many options, how can you even decide?

September 16th, 2022

Kevin Powell Talks WordPress!

What we can learn from a master front end developer

August 19th, 2022

Optimizing Live with Perfmatters

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Brian uses Perfmatters on live websites!
Vertical Banner

More Articles

Retro old tv against black color background. 3d illustration

Top 5 YouTube Channels to Learn about GenerateBlocks

Level-up your GenerateBlocks and GeneratePress skills with these top YouTube channels!

feedback

How To Make The Website Feedback Process Easier For You (And Your Clients!)

Get expert insight into refining your website project feedback process to maximize your team’s output and client satisfaction in this guest blog post.

Kyle_Van_Deusen_Create_a_detailed_pen_and_ink_sketch_of_a_lapto_f1994437-e41d-4858-929b-3104137eb7c6

How to Migrate Your WordPress Website Using the Free Migrate Guru Plugin

Discover the stress-free way to migrate your WordPress website using the free Migrate Guru plugin! Follow our step-by-step guide for a smooth and reliable migration experience, no matter your host.