Layout Examples

Explore different approaches to responsive chat application layouts. Each example includes specifications, live demos, and complete source code.

Sidebar Toggle

Beginner JS: Minimal

Classic hamburger menu with sliding sidebar

hamburger overlay mobile-first

Tab Navigation

Beginner JS: None

Bottom tabs on mobile, sidebar on desktop

tabs mobile-first css-only

Stack Navigation

Intermediate JS: Moderate

iOS-style hierarchical push/pop navigation

hierarchical breadcrumbs ios-style

Modal Overlays

Intermediate JS: Moderate

Secondary content in modals and bottom sheets

modals overlays focus-management

Choosing the Right Pattern

For Simple Chat Apps

  • • Start with Sidebar Toggle
  • • Consider Tab Navigation for equal-priority sections
  • • Use Flexbox Holy Grail for CSS-only solutions

For Complex Applications

  • Stack Navigation for deep hierarchies
  • Split View for tablet-optimized experiences
  • Modal Overlays for contextual information