11 Tools and resources – web designer in Brighton and Hove

I joined my first co-working space shortly after moving to Brighton (the conversation with the cat wasn’t cutting it). I joined Brighton Desk Space (which is sadly no longer around) and it was about the only space available at that time (2004).

Now there’s a great choice. Here’s a few that I’ve worked at over the years:

The Skiff

Brighton BN1 4GD

One of the original spaces that’s moved locations on more than one occasion. This is a fairly unique setup in that the members are encouraged to help with the running of the space. This gives it a collaborative, friendly feel but wouldn’t be for someone wanting a fully-managed space. Historically, there was a high proportion of developers using the space but the demographic has changed and is frequented by people in a variety of occupations.

Platform 9

Brighton BN1 1YR
Hove BN3 2AF

Very nice facilities and décor available in both Brighton and Hove with a large range of membership options including permanent desks and hot-desks.

Wrap

Brighton BN1 3XE

Nice space next to Brighton station with varied membership options. Classes and events are also available.

Projects

Brighton BN1 1AD
Brighton BN1 1HW​​​

A certified B Corp with several locations that include coworking, private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces and community activities.

Werks

Brighton BN1 1AL

One of the original co-working spaces with lots of flexibility and locations. Offices, dedicated desks, hot-desks, meeting rooms, cafes and events.

Sealanes

Brighton BN2 1BX

An open‑water swimming centre on Brighton seafront. It also has on‑site facilities including cafés, a sauna, an outdoor gym and swim coaching.

So Sauna

Hove BN3 7QA

A great sauna run by lovely people. Currently residing at The Engineerium overlooking Hove Park.

Photoshop online

A browser‑based version of Photoshop for basic edits and quick fixes.

Photopea

A free, browser‑based editor that closely mirrors Photoshop’s interface and features.

Canva

Canva is a browser‑based visual suite for creating social graphics, presentations, videos and print materials using drag‑and‑drop templates and AI tools like Magic Write and a background remover. It also offers animation, resizing, stock assets and simple video editing.

WordPress

Available as a free download from wordpress.org or as a managed service through wordpress.com. I use WordPress for all my website designs. The free version is easy to install directly via hosting and combined with a good theme (I use Divi) and a multitude of free and paid plugins it has the flexibility to handle virtually all types of projects. See a portfolio of web designs created using WordPress and the Divi theme: web design portfolio.

Wix

Wix is marketed as perfect for beginners who want to create their own websites. It offers a drag-and-drop interface and lots of features, templates and AI depending on the pricing model. It also provides hosting and allows for the addition of email and eCommerce. Despite the ‘easy-to-use’ claim I have created sites for several clients who started using Wix and gave up! As such, you’re still going to need a creative eye and some technical knowledge to complete your own Wix site.

SquareSpace

Similar to Wix in that it’s a product that markets itself on ease of use and a template‑based starting point for creating your own site. Strangely, for a product that also promotes a simplified process it’s quite difficult to find their pricing plans!

Webflow

Webflow is a visual website tool that lets you design pages on a canvas rather than writing code, then publish those designs as working websites. It makes sites that work well on phones and tablets and includes a simple content manager so you or a client can update blog posts, team pages or product listings without a developer.

Brighton Farm

Brighton Farm is both a social meetup and a directory of freelancers. It’s a good place to find a developer; their website lists freelancers and outlines their skillsets.