Next.js 15 Tutorial - 14 - Layouts

Understanding Layouts in Next.js

Introduction to Layouts

• Layouts are UI components shared across multiple pages, providing a consistent structure (e.g., header and footer).

• Creating a layout involves exporting a React component from layout.js or layout.tsx, which accepts a children prop for page content.

Default Root Layout

• Every Next.js application must have a root layout file named layout.tsx, located in the app folder; it is automatically regenerated if deleted.

• The root layout component renders the children prop, which corresponds to the content of page.tsx.

Enhancing the Layout

• The initial layout can be enhanced by adding HTML elements like headers and footers, using basic styling for simplicity.

• A header with light blue background and footer with white background can be added around the children prop to maintain consistency across routes.

Consistency Across Routes

• The header and footer remain constant regardless of route changes, showcasing the power of the root layout in maintaining application structure.

• Any markup or styles can be added within the layout as long as the children prop is included for rendering unique page content.

Visualizing Layout Functionality

• When visiting different routes (e.g., /about, /profile), the corresponding components replace the children content while keeping header and footer intact.