Different tastes result in different understandings of a perfect layout. The examples we’ve selected stand out, because

• they are clean. It concerns both code, text and graphics.
• they have a balanced layout, all site elements have their own place and are consistently placed on all pages
• they pay attention to small details; the smallest things such as link colors and headings are well thought-out
• they make use of white space, which places special emphasis on design and content
• they use modern design elements, but remain moderate, without extreme use of graphics
• they use intuitive color schemes and high contrasts to make sure the legibility of the text and the perception of visual elements are optimal
• not all of them are gorgeous, but they don’t have to. All of them are descriptive and they work, and that’s what really matters.

source : http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2007/04/26/11-almost-perfect-business-layouts/