Semi-Custom vs. Custom Squarespace Design: Which Is Right for You?

Written By Deana Ward

Understand what you’re paying for — and what you really need.

Not All Website Design Is Created Equal

If you're looking to launch or refresh your website, you’ve likely come across two main options: semi-custom and fully custom design.

At first glance, it might feel like one is “better” than the other. But in truth, it's less about good vs. bad — and more about choosing the right fit for your current goals, budget, and capacity.

Let’s break down the difference between the two, so you can make an informed decision that feels aligned and intentional.

What Is a Semi-Custom Squarespace Website?

A semi-custom site starts with a designer-created template or layout framework, which is then personalized with your brand elements, content, and functionality.

This option is often called:

  • Foundation site

  • Starter site

  • Template customization

You still get expert eyes, thoughtful design, and guidance — but the structure is pre-built, which saves time and cost.

Ideal for you if:

  • You’re in the early or growth stage of your business

  • You want a beautiful, strategic site without the investment of full custom

  • You need help implementing your branding and content into a clean layout

  • You’re working with a modest budget or a shorter timeline

What’s included in most semi-custom packages:

  • A professionally designed base layout

  • Customization of colors, fonts, imagery, and copy

  • Basic SEO setup and mobile optimization

  • Support with launch and essential integrations (like a scheduler or email list)

What’s not included:

  • Unique layout design from scratch

  • Complex custom code or advanced functionality

  • In-depth brand strategy or full copywriting support (unless added on)

What Is a Fully Custom Squarespace Website?

A fully custom site is built from the ground up , tailored to your brand’s personality, goals, and flow.

This typically includes:

  • A completely unique design (no base template)

  • Extensive page layout variations

  • Brand and messaging strategy built into the design process

  • Personalized features, integrations, and creative flourishes

Ideal for you if:

  • Your brand is well-established and ready to scale

  • You want something that stands out completely and feels signature

  • You need specific functionality or layout logic that a template can’t provide

  • You have an existing audience and traffic to support a high-conversion strategy

What’s included:

  • Brand-aligned design strategy and creative direction

  • Copy coaching or content mapping (and often full copywriting)

  • More revisions, design rounds, and support time

  • Custom integrations, animations, or advanced features

So... Which One Do You Need?

There’s no “right” choice — only the option that best supports where you are in your business journey. Here’s a side-by-side look at how to choose between semi-custom and custom design.

Choose a Semi-Custom Squarespace Site if...

  • You're launching a new brand or refining your first online presence

  • You have a few clear offers and a focused niche

  • You want a beautifully designed site without a high investment

  • You prefer working from a strong starting point rather than a blank canvas

  • You need something launched quickly (think 2 to 4 weeks)

  • You feel overwhelmed by too many creative choices and want guidance

Choose a Fully Custom Squarespace Site if...

  • Your business is established and evolving — and your site needs to reflect that

  • You offer complex services or need advanced features

  • You want a completely original design with unique layout logic

  • You’re ready to invest in a long-term, high-touch creative process

  • You want every visual, word, and interaction to feel intentionally crafted

  • You have time and space to collaborate deeply with a designer

This comparison format reads naturally, works beautifully on mobile, and lets readers self-select based on their stage of business.

Would you like this version swapped into the full post above or used as a short standalone piece for a landing page or email? The Bottom Line: Choose the Support That Supports You

A semi-custom site is not a shortcut. It’s a smart, strategic step for business owners who want to show up online with clarity and confidence, without the overwhelm.

A fully custom site is a beautiful evolution when you’re ready to step into a new chapter of visibility and growth.

Both can be powerful. What matters is choosing the one that meets you where you are.

Thinking About a Foundation Site?

Our Foundation Site package is a semi-custom Squarespace website that’s built with strategy, styled with intention, and designed to evolve with you. It’s perfect for coaches, creatives, and healthcare practitioners who want a streamlined path to a site that feels aligned and gets results.

Deana Ward - Squarespace Website Designer

About The Author:

Deana Ward is an experienced Squarespace website designer and professional copywriter. Over the past decade, she’s helped thousands of business owners ditch the DIY hellscape so they can stop tinkering and start taking action. Want to shine up your brand so you feel proud? Overhaul your message so you say the right words instead of all the words? Or soup up the SEO engine under the hood of your website? You’re in the right place!

Tired of feeling lost in DIY-ville? I’d love to help you.

✳︎ SIGN UP FOR A 30-MINUTE CONSULTATION ✳︎?

Deana Ward

I build sites that are smart, strategic, and simple. And I’m a copywriter who understands the best ways to connect with humans and please Google. My project process has been honed over the past ten years, creating a stress-free client experience.

http://www.simpleandsoulful.com
Previous

Are Lead Magnets Dead? Why the Old List-Building Strategies Aren’t Working — and What to Try Instead
Next

Is Your Squarespace Website Working for You?