Easily adjust your templates column layout via the templates parameters which can be accessed by navigating to Extensions -> Template Manager -> J51_YourTemplate.
From your 'Side Column Layout' dropdow simply set the layout of your side columns in relation to your site content with options for both your side columns to appear on either the left or the right or on either side of your content/component area.
For a single column layout simply disable all modules in the SideColumn module position.
Custom Page and Column widths
Your side column width can also be customised via the templates parameters. Place the desired width of your side column in pixels in the Side Column Width field. Your content area will automatically contract/expand to fill the remaining available area.