# Keep separate work and personal app layouts on one Mac

CubbyPad layouts keep separate pages, folders and grid sizes. Use Work and Personal arrangements when the apps you want to see change with the activity.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## The same installed apps can have different arrangements

A Mac used for work and personal projects can accumulate a crowded first page. A layout gives each activity its own arrangement without requiring a second set of installed applications.

For example, a Work layout might lead with your editor, browser and calendar, while Personal leads with creative or entertainment tools. Choose groups based on the apps you actually reach for rather than trying to design every possible future activity.

## Start with two useful arrangements

1. Open Settings › Layout and create a layout for work.

1. Arrange its pages and folders around the tasks you repeat.

1. Create or keep a separate personal arrangement.

1. Switch with the top-left menu in the grid or the menu bar icon.

1. Save a backup once the layouts feel useful.

## A layout is not a separate user account

Changing the grid does not sign you out of apps, isolate documents or create a security boundary between work and personal data. The same macOS user is still using the same installed software.

Use layouts for finding apps in context. Use the Mac’s account and access controls for requirements that involve separating people or protecting data.

## Automate after the arrangement works

A CubbyPad Focus Filter can choose a layout when a Focus starts. Display and time rules are also available. First make manual switching useful, then add the rule that removes a real repeated step. Too many automatic changes can make it harder to remember which layout you are viewing.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### Set up layouts, Focus and iCloud sync

Keep separate app arrangements, pair them with a Focus, and share them through your own iCloud Drive.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/layouts/)[Guide

### Move apps and make folders

Drag apps into place, move a group together, rename a folder and hide an app without removing it from your Mac.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/folders/)[Guide

### Organize apps into folders automatically

Preview the folders before anything moves, then keep the result or put the old grid back with Undo.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/organize/)

## More on layouts and workflows.

[### Switch your Mac app grid when a Focus starts

Add CubbyPad as a Focus Filter and choose a layout for that Focus. When the Focus ends, CubbyPad returns to your main layout.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/switch-app-layout-with-focus-mode-mac/)[### Choose an app layout by monitor or time of day

CubbyPad can select layouts using connected-display and time rules. Use them when a desk setup or a regular schedule reliably marks a change in how you work.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/automatic-app-layout-monitor-time-mac/)[### Sync an app grid between two Macs with iCloud Drive

CubbyPad can sync layouts, folders and chosen app names through your own iCloud Drive. It does not install apps on the other Mac or add license activations.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/sync-app-grid-between-two-macs/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/separate-work-personal-app-layouts-mac/