Layout Manager allows you to build a flexible layout based on module positions. Layout Builder is one of the unique features of Helix Ultimate 2.0 which allows webmasters to customize the existing template in almost any shape without code customization.

Layout Grid

Helix Ultimate Layout is based on a 12-column layout from Bootstrap 5.2.x. It includes a powerful mobile-first flexbox grid system for building layouts of all shapes and sizes. Helix grid system uses a series of containers (they can be switched off), rows, and columns to layout and align content.

You can choose columns preset or set your own grid. The grid system is responsive, and the columns will re-arrange depending on the screen size.

• In the current version of Helix Ultimate, you can use Predefined Headers. We’ve added 9 built-in header variations to a template that will enrich the scope and versatility of your sites created with the framework.
• Rows are wrappers for columns. Each Row can have its own column structure and unique settings.
• Icon with arrows allows you to change the positions of rows by moving them up or down.
• Use the plus icon to add a new Row, then choose column structure and select the module position(s) used there. We also suggest inserting a short ID name for the new Row.

 Available features (with related icons):

• [6 dots] - it's a drag-and-drop area, put a mouse cursor over it and move the row below or above others.
• [4 blocks] - it's a column layout selector, where you can change column structure inside the row based on twelve column system.
  Only one row is available in a single section. Choose one from predefined or set your own grid. Using Custom Layout remember that the summary of columns must be always 12. For example, you can insert 6+6 or 3+3+6 or 4+4+4+4.
• [basket/bin] - it allows you to delete a current row with all elements inside. 
• [sliders] - Row Options from access to advanced settings: name, fluid width, custom CSS class, style settings, and responsive (hide that row).
• [3 dots] - give access to Column Options, from there you can set this area as a component (only one can be in this role), choose a module position from the list, insert Custom CSS Class, set Grid for different views (desktop, tablet, large phone, phone), responsive options that allows you to hide that module position on (Phone, Large Phone, Tablet, Desktop/Laptop, Large Desktop)

Tip! Using proper Grid settings inside all columns in the row you can define different columns structure for each device (desktop/tablet/mobile) separately.

Template Positions

Except for the default one which you can see and use. The Helix template has two additional module positions (Content Top & Content Bottom), although they are not visible in Layout Builder, they can be used to display any modules above and below the component area.

If you want to use a position name that is not on the default list you can do it even without an edition of the template XML file. Just create a new module or edit an old one, put a unique module position name and click Enter, then save that module. Then you should be able to use that position in Template Layout.

Since Helix Ultimate 2.0.7 update you have a custom module position named “Off-canvas Modules” which removes the restriction of using only one menu in the Off-canvas. Now, you have the freedom to use multiple menu modules in the Off-canvas position and craft your off-canvas however you like. 

Custom Header! Using Layout features you can build also your own, custom header. But remember to use the "header" name for the "logo + menu" row to still have a sticky header. And of course, disable the Predesigned header (from the Basic - Header section).

Grid (Breakpoints)

Because Helix Ultimate is based on Bootstrap it allows you to choose different breakpoints used for columns inside the Rows. For example, you can use different column sizes for each view. Remember to change the settings for each column in the row. If you want to keep all columns in one row their summary must be 12 or smaller.

Responsive

Column Options > Responsive tab - from where you can hide a column on chosen devices. Those breakpoints are based on screen dimensions:

• Phone (max-width: 575px, what means less than 576px)
• Larger Phone (min-width: 576px, what means between 576px and 767px)
• Tablet (min-width: 768px, what means between 768px and 991px)
• Smaller Desktop/Laptop (min-width: 992px, what means between 992px and 1200px )
• Desktop (min-width: 1200px, what means 1200px and up)