About.
What I do.
Hello! I'm Stuart Bloxham. a Freelance Web Designer and Developer with a passion revolved around crafting fast, fluid, and high-performing websites and web applications, all powered by the dynamic capabilities of a web technology called React - specifically, Next Js.
With a strong combination of design and development expertise, I can help guide you throughout the entire process. Whether it's from the ground up, starting with wireframes, design, and development, or refining an existing design into a meticulously crafted website with thoughtful enhancements.
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About Next.js
What is Next.js and why should you consider it?
Next.js is an advanced web development framework derived from React, a technology originally created by Facebook, designed to build fast and scalable websites and applications.
Here's how Next.js benefits the websites I create:
In summary, Next.js is like a toolkit that helps developers build faster, more secure, and beautiful websites. It ensures your website looks good, loads quickly, and is easy to maintain and improve in the long run. So, when you see a fantastic website or web app online, there's a good chance that it was built using Next.js!
Why are Next.js websites so fast?
Next.js uses optimised pages which require no server-side computation, and can be instantly streamed to the end-user from multiple locations. The result is an ultra fast loading experience for your users.
Basically it loads only critical parts of the page, exactly when the visitor needs it, and not a second sooner. Once loaded, Next.js prefetches resources for other pages so that clicking on the site feels buttery smooth and responsive. Everything is statically generated at runtime - so your site loads as fast as possible.
Unlike most traditional LAMP stack websites, the need for servers to perform logic and work whilst your visitors wait for the page to load is removed... which also ultimately removes the ways the website can be attacked by malicious code from hackers.
The importance of owning a fast website!
A Google study found that “50% of mobile website visitors will leave after a three second page load”. In this same study, Google found that when comparing sites that load in 5 seconds vs sites that load in 19 seconds the sites had:
- 🔥70% longer average session lengths
- 🔥35% lower bounce rates
- 🔥25% higher ad viewability than their slower counterparts.
It’s also worth noting that Google now ranks sites higher that have fast performance!
Already have a Wordpress website?
No problem. Wordpress offers a “headless” approach which allows me to access your existing content. That way, you can continue to use what you’re familiar with for managing your content while your customers benefit from a fast, smooth and fully-customised website.. which is ultimately beneficial to your business and generating leads!
How about e-commerce websites?
Headless e-commerce with Next.js provides flexibility, performance, and future-proofing, making it ideal for businesses that require a customised, scalable, and modern shopping experience for their customers.
Platforms such as Shopify, Big Commerce, Swell, Medusa and Commerce Layer are a few options I’m familiar with but there are many more we can choose from. E-commerce platforms can help you manage everything from inventory & fulfilment to customer engagement and retention.
Once we have a strong understanding of the needs of your business, we can go through the options that benefit you and your business the most.
Already have an existing e-commerce store?
This won't be a problem - if you're happy with the way your store management platform works for you (and depending on which platform you use), we can link your inventory to a new, 'headless', customer-facing website. Let's chat 🤙
Services.
Development
I use modern technologies to build fast, interactive websites that offer a seamless user experience. Avoid the pitfalls of slow, clunky sites and enhance your business with efficient web solutions.
CMS (Content Management Service) integration
CMSs let you manage your content independently. I can integrate popular options like Sanity, Strapi, and WordPress into your site, ensuring excellent performance and ease of use.
Design
Website design is crucial for your online presence. I use Figma for designs, offering great sharing capabilities and realistic prototyping to reflect how you value customers and build trust in your brand.
SEO
SEO helps your website rank higher in search results, attracting warm leads. I use schema.org for enhanced search visibility and Google Analytics to track performance and customer demographics.
Branding & Marketing
Ensure consistent branding across all materials, including email templates, leaflets, and business cards, to match your new website. Strengthen your brand identity and create a cohesive, professional image.
Support & Hosting
Selecting the right hosting platform is crucial for reliability and performance. I provide expert recommendations and, for a small retainer, offer ongoing support to ensure your site remains secure and efficient.