Exploring Hilla: A Full-Stack Java Framework
Hilla offers a seamless combination of a Spring-based Java back end and a TypeScript-powered front end built with Lit, a reactive JavaScript framework. This unique pairing makes Hilla stand out in the Java ecosystem, offering a full-stack framework that feels similar to Next.js for JavaScript developers. In this article, we’ll dive into the basics of Hilla, including scaffolding a web application, building the front end, and extending functionality with new components.
From Vaadin Fusion to Hilla
Hilla’s roots lie in Vaadin Fusion, which was officially rebranded to Hilla earlier this year. For developers familiar with Fusion, there’s no major learning curve as the framework remains the same under the new name. While this article uses Vaadin-branded packages and components, these will be transitioned to Hilla-specific names in upcoming releases. This rebranding reflects a new phase of development while maintaining continuity for existing users.
Reactive Front End Meets Spring Back End
At the heart of Hilla is its integration of a reactive front end with a robust Spring back end, unified in a single build process. This combination allows developers to leverage the speed and interactivity of Lit on the front end while taking advantage of Spring’s proven capabilities on the server side. This guide includes examples demonstrating how these components interact, showcasing the framework’s full-stack potential.
Getting Started with Hilla
To follow along with the examples in this article, ensure you have the necessary tools installed: Node.js (npm) and a recent Java Development Kit (JDK). Verifying that both node -v and java –version work correctly on your system will prepare you to scaffold your first Hilla application, build a reactive front end, and integrate new features. Hilla’s combination of modern JavaScript tools with traditional Java development provides a powerful framework for building interactive, full-stack web applications.