To the average person, block-based themes and Full Site Editing sounds like a bunch of techie mumbo jumbo. In reality, it’s the future of building WordPress websites. Let us explain:


Block-Based Themes

A block-based theme is exactly what it sounds like — a theme constructed from blocks. However, that doesn’t mean much without context. So, let’s dig in.

You see, traditional WordPress themes are quite rigid. They’re constructed upon old PHP technology. As a result, modifying the layout, styles, or functionality can be a challenge. Most themes include a handful of customization options and some unique layouts using page templates. However, any significant changes often require code, and configuring theme options can be confusing. As a result, a seemingly simple change can quickly become very time consuming and expensive using a traditional theme.

Block themes are different. They are constructed from blocks in the Gutenberg block editor. Each block represents a core element of website construction — like an image, heading, or form. And each block is highly customizable. Plus, they can be used in conjunction with other blocks to create patterns. As a result, adding and removing sections, or changing layouts, colors, fonts, sizes, and anything else is accomplished with the click of a button in the Full Site Editor. Meaning, a theme constructed entirely of blocks is incredibly customizable. Plus, this can all be accomplished without a single line of code. The functionality of popular page builder plugins is now available directly in WordPress using a block-based theme.

That’s an incredible leap forward for WordPress and themes!

The concept for block themes was introduced with WordPress 5.6. Although the technology remained in the experimental phase for all of 2020 and 2021, block themes presented a clear and exciting vision for the future of WordPress. So, Organic Themes got to work producing STAX.

Organic Blocks

Early in the STAX development process it became clear that a great block-based theme required great blocks. Fortunately, Organic Themes already had a great block collection. So, we began expanding our block library and testing the new blocks within STAX — developing the blocks and theme side-by-side.

The Organic Blocks plugin includes a collection of 20 premium blocks for creating content like team member profiles, customer testimonial slideshows, portfolios, toggles, and much more. Each block has been tested extensively within the STAX theme and the WordPress Full Site Editor. Working together, the theme and plugin provide ultimate flexibility when it comes to customizing your WordPress website.

Multiple variations of each Organic Block are showcased in this STAX theme demo. Additionally, each block variation can be copied to your clipboard, and pasted directly within your WordPress block editor. It doesn’t get any easier than that.

Full Site Editing

The Gutenberg block editor was introduced in WordPress 5.0. The editor was met with mixed reviews. It was a drastic change from the previous editor. As expected, many users were not ready for such a change. However, it was essential for the survival of the platform. Kudos to Matt Mullenweg and the Gutenberg team for forging ahead through the adversity.

Since the release of WordPress 5.0, the block editor has improved significantly with each update. With the 2022 release of WordPress 5.9, Full Site Editing was introduced into the platform. While the editor is still in its infancy, the potential is clear. Full Site Editing is the future of WordPress web design.

Organic Themes

STAX is designed and developed by Organic Themes — a small WordPress company with a reputation for excellence.

Organic Themes was founded by childhood friends, David Morgan and Jeff Milone, on the island of Maui in 2009. They owned and operated the business in Hawaii for many years.

Organic Themes is a partner of WordPress and WooCommerce. The company has developed many themes and plugins for over 10 years. They are a trusted and respected brand in the WordPress community.

The Organic Team

Organic Themes are designed and developed by family and friends.

David Morgan

Designer | Developer | Co-FOunder

David is the designer, developer, and co-founder of Organic Themes. He builds, maintains, and manages all Organic Themes products. In his spare time, he enjoys surfing, hiking, and hanging with his family.

Jeff Milone

Marketing | Developer | Co-FOunder

Jeff wears many hats within Organic Themes. He secures partnerships and manages public relations. Jeff is a consummate outdoorsman, splitting his time between Hawaii, Colorado, and Florida.

Emily Morgan

Support Manager

Emily manages support for all Organic Themes products. She’s loves keeping customers happy. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, playing piano, practicing yoga, and spending time with her family.