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Snap layout

Snap layout is an interaction pattern where views can be freely moved, split, and resized, while still snapping into a structured layout.

Unlike rigid grid-based systems, snap layout allows users to rearrange the interface dynamically. The system provides structure during interaction, but does not restrict how the final layout can be composed.

What problem it solves

When working with multiple views, users often need to adapt the interface to the task at hand.

Static layouts force users into predefined structures, while fully free layouts quickly become inconsistent and difficult to manage.

Snap layout provides a middle ground. It allows flexible composition, while ensuring that layouts remain aligned, usable, and predictable.

How it behaves

Users can take any view (for example a tab or panel) and move it freely across the interface.

As the view is dragged, the system highlights possible drop targets:

  • left or right side of an existing view
  • top or bottom split
  • replacement of an existing view
  • merging into tab groups

When the view is dropped, the layout automatically reorganizes:

  • the screen splits in the chosen direction
  • space is distributed between views
  • alignment and structure are preserved

Views can then be resized continuously, allowing full control over how much space each part occupies.

Structural model

The layout is not based on a fixed grid, but on a dynamic split-tree structure:

  • each split divides a region into two parts (horizontal or vertical)
  • splits can be nested arbitrarily
  • each region can contain a single view or a tab group

This allows highly flexible compositions without losing structural clarity.

Example

A user is working with three views:

  • a table of records
  • a detailed form
  • a chart

The user drags the chart tab to the right side of the screen, creating a vertical split.

Then the form is dragged below the table, creating a horizontal split on the left side.

Finally, the user resizes the panels to prioritize the chart.

The result is a custom layout adapted to the current task, created without manual positioning.

Degrees of flexibility

Snap layout is highly flexible:

  • views can be rearranged at any time
  • splits can be created and removed dynamically
  • panels can be resized continuously
  • tab groups allow multiple views in the same region

At the same time, structure is always maintained through snapping and valid split behavior.

Relationship to other concepts

Snap layout is related to:

  • Docking systems – where panels attach to edges or regions
  • Split views – where the screen is divided into resizable sections
  • Tab systems – where multiple views share the same space

Snap layout combines all three into a unified interaction model.