WordPress is the most widely used content management system in the world. With its user-friendly interface and flexible structure, it offers an ideal platform for both individual users and businesses. One of the most notable features of WordPress is its ability to perfectly implement the separation of design and content (separation of concerns). This allows users to produce and easily add new content without having to change the design of their site.

However, recent developments in the WordPress ecosystem have partially altered this situation. The introduction of block themes and the new WordPress editor have made website creation more accessible to everyone. Now, even users without technical knowledge can easily design websites using ready-made themes and page builders.

These developments have led to the neglect of the principle of separating design and content, turning WordPress into more of a site builder. However, this shift comes with some drawbacks. Ready-made themes often come with many unnecessary components, while the code produced by page builders can be inefficient and complex.

Therefore, it is important for WordPress users to be cautious when using these tools and to consider the performance and sustainability of their sites. My approach involves developing a custom theme from scratch for each client. While developing a custom theme tailored to the individual and corporate needs of my clients, I build a new child theme on top of a basic theme like WooCommerce’s official theme, Storefront, for e-commerce projects. This ensures that my clients receive solutions that best fit their business goals and brand identity, while also achieving a website optimized for performance and functionality.

Why Is Using Numerous Plugins and Page Builders a Bad Practice?

Performance Degradation

Each plugin adds extra load.

Your page loading speed dramatically slows down.

Your SEO performance is negatively affected.

Security Risks

Each plugin is a potential security vulnerability.

Plugins that are not regularly updated invite cyber attacks.

Complex codes leave your site vulnerable.

Maintenance Challenges

Managing numerous plugins complicates administration.

Plugin incompatibilities constantly create issues.

The risk of crashes increases during updates.

Why a Custom Theme from Scratch?

Developing a custom theme from scratch is the most powerful way to fully customize your WordPress site according to your needs. It is important to remember that the primary purpose of WordPress is to be a robust content management system rather than a site builder. With a custom theme, we can rebuild the separation of design and content.

Full Control

When you create a theme from scratch, you have complete control over every aspect of your site. Design, functionality, and user experience are entirely shaped according to your preferences.

Custom Functionality

Some clients may require custom functionalities not found in standard themes. For example, they may demand specific user interactions, custom post types, or custom integrations.

Performance Optimization

Custom themes generally load faster and perform better because they only include the features and code you need. A structure free of unnecessary code and features enhances site speed.

Scalability

As your business grows or your needs change, adding new features or modifying existing ones is easier with a custom theme. This ensures your site can adapt to future requirements.

Enhanced Security

Custom themes are only accessible to you and your developer, reducing security vulnerabilities. Additionally, by avoiding unnecessary code and plugins, you can minimize security risks.

Summary

In conclusion, developing a custom theme from scratch for your WordPress site offers significant advantages in terms of both performance and flexibility in the long run. By freeing yourself from the limitations of ready-made themes and page builders, you can design your site entirely according to your needs and brand identity. This approach reveals the true power of WordPress, allowing you to make the most of the capabilities offered by the content management system. Creating your own custom theme highlights the uniqueness of your site while maximizing the user experience.