Introduction
Next.js has become our go-to framework for building web applications. After deploying dozens of production applications, we've identified patterns that consistently lead to scalable, maintainable codebases.
1. Project Structure Matters
Start with a clear folder structure. We organize our projects like this:
- app/ - Pages using App Router
- components/ - Reusable UI components
- lib/ - Utility functions and configurations
- hooks/ - Custom React hooks
- types/ - TypeScript type definitions
2. Use Server Components by Default
React Server Components are a game-changer for performance. They allow you to render components on the server, reducing the JavaScript sent to the client.
Only use 'use client' when you need:
- Browser APIs (localStorage, window)
- Event handlers (onClick, onChange)
- React hooks (useState, useEffect)
3. Optimize Images and Fonts
Use Next.js Image component for automatic optimization. For fonts, use next/font to eliminate layout shift and improve performance.
4. API Routes for Backend Logic
Keep backend logic in API routes. This separation makes testing easier and allows for better code organization.
5. Environment Variables
Use environment variables for configuration. Never hardcode API keys or URLs in your code.
Conclusion
These patterns have served us well across many projects. Start with these foundations and adjust based on your specific needs.