Creative Idea is a free HTML/CSS website template published on Templatemo that provides a dark-themed, three-column layout for building static pages. Added on 30 September 2009, this template has been viewed 102,069 times and downloaded 22,172 times, making it one of the older but still accessible free layouts on the platform.
What is the Creative Idea template?
Creative Idea is a free CSS template distributed by Templatemo, a site known for offering free HTML templates. The design uses black or dark gray colors and a three-column structure that is standards-compliant, meaning it follows accepted web standards to render consistently across browsers. As a static HTML/CSS layout, it does not rely on a CMS, database, or server-side scripting; you download a ZIP archive containing the HTML and CSS files, then edit them to build your website.
Key Features
- Free for any use — The template is 100% free to download, edit, and use for both commercial and non-commercial websites, with no stated restrictions beyond sharing.
- Three-column layout — A classic 3-column structure allows you to place main content, side navigation, and an extra widget area in separate vertical columns.
- Dark color scheme — The black or dark gray background gives the site a distinct, moody look that can help media and creative content stand out.
- Standards-compliant CSS — The layout is described as standard compliant, which helps ensure similar rendering across different browsers and devices.
- Plain HTML and CSS — No JavaScript framework or build tool is required, making it easy to open, understand, and modify with a basic text editor.
- Established download history — Since its publication on 30 September 2009, it has accumulated 102,069 views and 22,172 downloads, indicating sustained interest.
Who is it for?
- Small business owners who need a simple, professional-looking website without the cost of a custom design.
- Creative professionals such as photographers, designers, and artists who want a dark backdrop to showcase their portfolio work.
- Students and self-learners studying HTML and CSS can examine the template's code to learn how a standard three-column layout is constructed.
- Web developers who need a quick, framework-free starting point for building a static marketing or information site.
What can you do with it?
- Portfolio websites: Use the three columns to display project galleries, an about summary, and contact information side by side.
- Personal blogs: Adapt the columns for blog posts, a sidebar with archives, and a widget area for tags or links.
- Small business pages: Present services, team details, and testimonials in separate columns on a single screen.
- Educational exercises: Reverse-engineer the template with your own CSS changes to practice web standards and layout techniques.







