Adapt group block placeholder controls to render when selected

[richtabor]

There's an inconsistency between empty states of columns and group blocks. Related: #53761

Group

The resting state of a group block renders an inserter and a placeholder (when used as a row or stack), which does always renders, regardless of selection.

In the visual below, the group block is not selected, but the placeholder is still rendered.

Column

The resting state of an empty columns block does not render visually in the editor, much like the resting state of a spacer block. This results in a more 1:1 experience with what your site looks like on the front-end.

In the visual below, the columns block is not selected, and no placeholder is rendered (expected).

Proposal

I propose that the group block matches the current spec of the columns block, where the inserter is rendered when selected, but not otherwise. When selected, the controls are all available as they are today.

This is consistent with how spacer blocks are rendered, and will promote a better one to one experience when viewing a site within the editor.

[richtabor]

This would help clean up experiences like this:

[Mamaduka]

The Columns' behavior change was reported as regression #55982.

[richtabor]

The Columns' behavior change was reported as regression #55982.

It was actually an intentional change. I suggested a middle-ground to improve, but still think these should not be visible placeholders when you're not interacting with them.

[Mamaduka]

Thanks for replying there.

While I understand the intention here, it would make selecting blocks a bit harder on canvas without List View open.

[richtabor]

While I understand the intention here, it would make selecting blocks a bit harder on canvas without List View open.

I don't think the issue is with block selection though. If there's an empty area, you can click on it to manipulate it (like any other visible block).