Creating a multi-category Flutter e-commerce app with dynamic content

Ecom
1

Hey Flutter devs!

I’m new to Flutter and working on an e-commerce app. I’m trying to figure out how to make a home screen with a fixed app bar and drawer, but with a body that changes based on different category levels. Here’s what I’m aiming for:

  • Main screen with app bar, drawer, and body
  • Body area that updates to show different category screens (like main categories, subcategories, etc.)
  • Ability to navigate through 3-4 levels of categories

I’ve set up the basic structure using Scaffold, but I’m not sure how to handle the dynamic content part. Any tips on how to swap out the body content while keeping the app bar and drawer in place?

Also, if anyone has suggestions for managing the category data structure (main cat, subcat, sub-subcat), that would be super helpful!

Thanks in advance for any advice you can give a Flutter newbie!

2

For dynamic content management, consider implementing a PageView widget within your Scaffold’s body. This allows you to swap between different category screens while maintaining a consistent app bar and drawer.

Regarding category data structure, a tree-like model using custom classes could work well. For example:

class Category {
  final String name;
  final List<Category> subcategories;
  Category(this.name, [this.subcategories = const []]);
}

This approach enables easy traversal and expansion of your category hierarchy. To handle navigation, you might want to look into the Navigator 2.0 API for more granular control over your app’s routing.

Remember to optimize performance by lazy-loading subcategories and implementing efficient state management to prevent unnecessary rebuilds.

3

hey there! For dynamic content, try using Navigator.push() with a custom route that only replaces the body. you can keep appBar and drawer in a parent widget.

for category data, consider using a nested Map or custom objects. something like:

{
“Electronics”: {
“Phones”: {
“Android”: ,
“iOS”:
}
}
}

hope this helps :slight_smile:

4

Hey FlyingEagle! Welcome to the Flutter world! :blush:

I’m curious about your app idea. Have you considered using a state management solution like Provider or Riverpod? They could really help with swapping out that body content dynamically.

For the category structure, what about trying a tree-like data structure? It might be a good fit for your multi-level categories. How deep are you planning to go with the subcategories?

Oh, and for navigation, have you looked into nested routes? They could be super helpful for your use case.

Keep us posted on your progress! What’s been the trickiest part so far?