Design That Actually Works for Real People
We build mobile app experiences around how users actually behave, not how we think they should. Every screen, interaction, and flow comes from watching real people struggle with interfaces and fixing what doesn't work.
Research Before Pixels
Most design work jumps straight into mockups. We start by understanding what people are trying to accomplish and where current solutions fail them. It sounds obvious, but you'd be surprised how rare this is.
Our process involves actual user observation sessions, not just surveys or assumptions. We watch people use existing apps in their context, note where they pause or get confused, and identify patterns in how they navigate problems. This takes longer upfront, but it means fewer revisions later because we're solving real friction points.
What Makes This Different
We don't start with industry best practices or trendy patterns. Instead, we document how your specific users interact with similar apps today, identify their mental models, and design flows that match their existing expectations. Sometimes that means unconventional layouts, and we're comfortable with that.
Three Phases That Build on Each Other
Linear timelines rarely survive contact with real projects, but these phases give us a framework to keep work organized and avoid getting stuck in endless iteration.
Discovery and Mapping
We spend time understanding who uses the app, what they're trying to achieve, and where current solutions create unnecessary steps. This includes competitive analysis and user journey documentation that highlights pain points worth addressing.
Prototyping and Testing
Low-fidelity prototypes let us test interaction concepts quickly without investing in high-polish visuals. We put these in front of real users early and often, watching for confusion or friction before committing to detailed design work.
Visual Refinement
Once the flow works smoothly in testing, we develop the visual language and polish interactions. This includes responsive specifications, accessibility considerations, and design system documentation that development teams can actually implement.
Built for Hong Kong Users
Hong Kong mobile usage patterns are distinctive. High density, constant movement between MTR stations, one-handed phone usage while commuting. These aren't abstract considerations for us since we design in the same environment.
Interface elements need to accommodate thumb reach on larger phones. Tap targets should account for crowded train scenarios. Network conditions can shift dramatically between underground stations and open areas, so loading states matter more than in many markets.
We test designs in actual usage contexts around the city, not just in office settings. That changes what works and what doesn't in ways that only become obvious through field testing.
Interaction Design Focus
Every tap, swipe, and transition should feel predictable and responsive. We prioritize:
- Touch target sizing for one-handed use
- Gesture patterns that match user expectations
- Loading states that provide clear feedback
- Error recovery that doesn't frustrate users
- Animation timing that feels natural, not showy
Design System Development
Consistent interfaces work better for users and development teams. Our systems include:
- Component libraries with usage guidelines
- Spacing and typography scales that maintain hierarchy
- Color systems designed for accessibility compliance
- Responsive behavior specifications for all breakpoints
- Documentation that developers can reference during implementation
Who Handles Your Project
Small team, focused expertise. Everyone here works directly on client projects rather than managing layers of junior designers.
Alder Thorvaldsen
Specializes in user research and interaction design with background in behavioral psychology. Previously worked on fintech apps serving Asian markets before joining in 2022.
Maelle Desjardins
Handles visual design systems and accessibility implementation. Has extensive experience designing for multilingual interfaces and high-density information displays common in Asian apps.
Isolde Brenneisen
Conducts user testing sessions and analyzes behavioral data. Joined us in early 2024 after working with several Hong Kong startups on mobile product validation.
Want to Discuss Your Mobile App Project?
We typically schedule initial consultations for projects starting in late 2025 or early 2026. Get in touch and we'll find a time to review your specific requirements and timeline.
Contact Us