Thematic
Thematic is an open-source theme designed as a starting point for simple customisation, which also happens to look pretty darn good out of the box.
It features classy search engine optimization, multiple widget-ready areas (not just in sidebars and footer but between posts, above posts etc.), and a grid-based design.
Site owners can choose from three different layouts - two columns with the sidebar on the left or the right, or three columns with the main content in the centre.
The included stylesheets are aligned to a strict 18px vertical grid featuring refreshing and sophisticated typography.
To see what can be achieved by styling this theme, check out the designer’s site: ThemeShaper.
