WordPress’s annual tradition of releasing a default theme continues, and the call for contributors is now open. Twenty Twenty-Seven, slated to debut alongside WordPress 7.2, needs developer support as it takes shape under the leadership of Henrique Iamarino, a seasoned theme designer at Automattic.
Anne McCarthy, also of Automattic, issued the call on the Make WordPress Core blog on March 13. This represents a critical moment for developers and designers interested in shaping the future of WordPress. The theme will be a cornerstone of the 7.2 release, which is confirmed to be the final major update for 2027.
Why Twenty Twenty-Seven Matters
The default theme has long served as a showcase for WordPress’s capabilities, particularly highlighting the latest advancements in block-based design and Full Site Editing (FSE). Twenty Twenty-Seven is expected to follow this tradition, offering a fresh canvas that demonstrates the evolving flexibility of the WordPress ecosystem.
Henrique Iamarino’s role as lead designer signals the theme’s commitment to professional design standards. Iamarino’s previous work at Automattic has established him as a leader in creating user-centric themes, making his involvement a promising indicator of quality.
What We Know So Far
While details about the theme’s visual direction and technical architecture are still emerging, the announcement confirms that Twenty Twenty-Seven will launch in conjunction with WordPress 7.2. Historically, default themes like Twenty Twenty-One and Twenty Twenty-Three have prioritized accessibility, performance, and integration with WordPress’s newest features. Contributors can expect a similar focus.
The timing of the call for volunteers aligns with WordPress’s broader development schedule, giving contributors ample runway to iterate on the design and ensure compatibility with 7.2’s core changes.
What To Do
- Developers: Visit the Make WordPress Core blog and express interest in contributing code for theme functionality and block support.
- Designers: Collaborate with Henrique Iamarino on visual concepts that align with WordPress’s brand and usability standards.
- Site Operators: Stay informed about Twenty Twenty-Seven’s progress to prepare for its inclusion in WordPress 7.2 later this year.
