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Technical challenge: UI-first design for a Gen Z audience
Duration
3 days
Role
Visual
Designer
Tools
Figma
Team
Just me :)
1. The Challenge
This design challenge was part of the hiring process for the company where I currently work. The brief was clear: build a screen that speaks to creators who stream their art online. The target audience was Gen Z, and the goal was to help artists grow their presence and income. It had to feel expressive, vibrant, and instantly engaging. No research, just pure design instinct.
2. Fast Research: Patterns That Work
To align with user expectations, I analyzed platforms Gen Z already trusts: Twitch, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Live. I focused on interaction patterns, visual hierarchy, and emotional tone. What stood out?
Content always comes first
Interfaces are expressive, but intuitive
Vibrant colors and contrast are key
This quick analysis shaped my approach: simple layout, visual depth, and strong identity.
I explored aesthetic trends that would resonate with Gen Z, I began by collecting visual references from platforms and designers that set the tone for digital aesthetics today.
I created a moodboard to align my visual direction before moving into layout and UI. Some of the key inspirations were:
Translucent layers (glassmorphism) to add dimensionality and visual depre
Gradients and glow effects
High contrast and saturated accent colors to highlight actions and interactions on dark backgrounds
4. The Outcome: Emotion, Motion and Pattern-driven
With just three days to go from concept to delivery, I focused on bringing the energy and clarity of those references into a cohesive screen. Every visual decision aimed to balance usability with expressiveness.
Key visual decisions:
Glassmorphism in the chat area gave structure while keeping the interface light and modern.
Purple and pink accents added personality and a sense of creativity, without overwhelming the stream itself.
Rounded buttons and avatar containers reinforced a friendly and playful tone.
Micro-animations brought the UI to life. Components responded with subtle movement to give users a more dynamic and engaging experience.
While this was a short sprint, it was a great opportunity to showcase my ability to translate aesthetic trends into functional UI design under tight constraints and my Figma knowledge. The final concept was praised for its clarity, energy, and relevance to its intended audience.
TL;DR
Sofía Beltrán Martín © 2025
Designed by me for you.