Add ‘Design’ Link To Admin Menu Using PHP

The Design link (previously labeled as Patterns) is a useful addition for anyone working with custom layouts and reusable blocks in WordPress. By adding this snippet, you’ll gain quick access to the Patterns interface directly from your admin menu.

It conveniently places a Design menu item in the sidebar, along with a submenu link that lets you jump straight into creating a new pattern. This can save time and streamline your workflow, especially if you frequently create or manage block patterns.

Code Snippet

function bb_patterns_admin_menu() {
    add_menu_page('Patterns', 'Patterns', 'edit_posts', 'edit.php?post_type=wp_block', '', 'dashicons-editor-table', 22);
    
    add_submenu_page('edit.php?post_type=wp_block', 'Add New Pattern', 'Add New Pattern', 'edit_posts', 'post-new.php?post_type=wp_block');
}
add_action('admin_menu', 'bb_patterns_admin_menu');

Where to Add This Code

Here are two easy options:

Option 1: Install WPCode Lite Plugin

This is by far the safest method and is beginner friendly if you’re not used to editing theme files.

1. Search for WPCode Lite plugin in your website dashboard.
2. Install the plugin.
3. Go to Snippets > Add New.
4. Give your snippet a name like “Add Design Link To Admin Menu.”
5. Paste the code above.
6. Choose “Run snippet everywhere”.
7. Choose PHP, not CSS or any other.
8. Save and activate.

✅ Done! You can now access your Design link from the Admin Menu.

Option 2: Functions.php

We don’t advise this option unless you’re a developer or if you feel comfortable editing theme files:

1. Open your functions.php file.
2. Paste the snippet at the bottom.
3. Save and upload if needed.

💡 Tip: Always use a child theme to avoid losing changes when your theme updates.

NOTE: We use WPCode Lite because it’s more flexible than others, there’s no need to upgrade to pro unless you’re a developer, it offers many free snippets, can choose where to run it, won’t publish if the code is wrong so won’t break your site, PHP is included compared to others you have to buy the their pro, and best of all the free version can easily be downloaded from your WordPress Repository.