Question about design

[nightscream]

I don't really know what to do so I got a question and want a honest opinion.
I want to start my own company website(coding service, later webdesign will be added), I have my code done but now I'm strugling with the design. I have seen a nice webdesign on the internet that is currently in use but I was thinking of copying the design(create a look a like design) how would you feel about that?

[leafypiggy]

how can you code something that isn't designed?

It doesn't make sense. Get GIMP or PhotoShop or something like that. and create a template. Then slice& code the images.

[nightscream]

I'm talking about the system code that hasn't to do anything with the design.
The code is made in php with classes. I have almost the whole system coded but now I've seen a design on a website and I really like it and I'm thinking of just copy it with photoshop.
But how do you guys feel about such a website?

[goldy30]

I've heard similar opinions about copying other web designs before. Some people say that even if you are copying the design, but make it up layer by layer in PS, it's technically a new creation. Some people might say it's stealing but I've done it. Mostly for the template or layout but changing a few things here and there will make it original. Fonts, colors, size of elements, images, etc.

Do you have a link to check for us to check out?

[nightscream]

Original site: http://www.interspire.com
my site(so far): http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/8028/testpg6.jpg

everything is made in photoshop.

[mattura]

Just don't copy... make your own in the same style though!
PS link was broken when I tried...

[nightscream]

try again

[xPlozion]

getting ideas from another site isn't bad. ripping the design and putting your logo isn't cool.

[GrandeMike]

getting ideas from another site isn't bad. ripping the design and putting your logo isn't cool.

Agreed. Your mockup so far is looking good. Nice and clean.

[AsaBerdahl]

A simple bit of colors or a bit of a logo change would make it a bit more unique. But otherwise, a very nice mock-up.