One of the questions we’re asked regularly is simple… what makes a good website today? The answer has shifted. It’s no longer just about having a presence online. A modern website needs to be clear, mobile-friendly, easy to update and built with a purpose. It should reflect your brand properly, guide visitors to take action and work just as well on a phone as it does on a desktop.
Over the years, we’ve worked on a wide range of websites for different sectors. Some are simple brochure-style sites. Others include booking systems, content management or ongoing updates. Each one starts with the same principle… what does this business actually need?
Here’s a snapshot of a few of our web projects.
What does a simple website need to do?
Sometimes, simple is exactly right.
Take Juliet Pick Designs https://julietpickdesigns.com
A clean, WordPress-based site that showcases work without overcomplicating things. It includes an Instagram feed to keep content fresh and relevant, and does exactly what it needs to do… present the brand clearly and professionally.
Can a website support heritage and storytelling?
Absolutely… and it’s a space we know well.
Appledore Maritime Heritage Trust https://www.amhtrust.co.uk
A content-led WordPress site designed to share history, updates and information in a structured, manageable way. Fully editable, allowing the organisation to keep content alive without relying on a developer.
What if you just need a solid, no-frills presence?
Not every business needs bells and whistles.
Accountancy Recruitment https://ww.accountancyrecruit.com
A straightforward, tidy site that focuses on clarity. It’s a good example of a basic option that delivers information quickly and professionally… although, like many sites, there are always opportunities to refine and evolve over time.
How important is design style and structure?
Very… but it has to be supported with ongoing updates.
Tarrant Group https://www.tarrantgroup.co.uk
A strong visual approach with a slightly different feel to other projects. It shows how design can elevate perception, although like many business websites, it highlights the importance of keeping content current.
Is a holding page better than nothing?
In most cases… yes.
AB Heather Carpentry & Joinery Ltd https://ab-heather.co.uk
Rather than a generic “coming soon”, this holding page actively promotes services and starts the conversation early. It’s a simple but effective way to create visibility while a full site is in development.
Can websites include bookings and payments?
They can… and increasingly should where relevant.
net-it https://www.net-it.org
A more functional site that includes a full booking system with e-commerce. This is where a website moves beyond a brochure and becomes an active part of the business operation.
Do local businesses still benefit from a strong website?
More than ever.
Professional Property Services https://www.pps-chichester.co.uk
A well-established local building firm using their website to support visibility and credibility in the Chichester area. Combined with Google Business and local search, this type of site continues to deliver long-term value.
What about more refined, modern sites?
That’s where design, structure and usability come together.
Marber https://www.marber.co.uk
A strong, well-balanced site that presents the brand confidently. Clean layout, clear messaging and a good example of how a website can feel current without being overcomplicated.
Can you handle larger or public sector sites?
Yes… and they come with their own challenges.
Angmering Parish Council https://www.angmering-pc.gov.uk
A local authority website with a large volume of information and strict usability expectations. While parts could evolve, it demonstrates the ability to manage complex structures and ongoing content needs.
So… what kind of website do you actually need?
That’s always the real question. Not every business needs a large, complex build. Some need a simple, well-presented presence. Others need booking systems, content control or something more bespoke. The key is understanding what role the website plays in your overall marketing… and building it properly from the start. Because like any part of your brand, your website shouldn’t just exist. It should work. Get in touch if you would like to know more.
If your current site feels dated… or you’re not sure it’s doing what it should… Let’s talk.
