Working with wood taught me to see the potential within raw material. It's about understanding the inherent qualities of the wood, its grain, its strength, and how to shape it into something both functional and beautiful. In digital product design, this translates to mastering the foundational elements of a user experience – crafting a robust and intuitive design system. Just as the right selection of lumber elevates a piece of furniture, a well-crafted design system elevates a digital product. I'm inspired by the work of George Nakashima, who saw the potential to give trees a second life in his furniture, and that philosophy informs how I approach design.

My time building furniture in Austin reinforced the value of patience and refinement. The first 95% of the work was about shaping the raw material, laying the groundwork. But it was the final 5% – the sanding, the finishing – that brought the vision to life. This mirrors my approach to product design: meticulous planning and iteration, followed by the crucial details that transform a good product into an exceptional one.

At my core, I'm driven by a passion for usability. I believe in distilling complexity into clarity, making digital experiences seamless and intuitive. It's not just about simplifying; it's about enhancing, elevating, and creating products that are both functional and delightful. Think of it as the final sanding and finish on a piece of furniture – that’s where the difference is made.

I strive for a collaborative and approachable design process, one that feels more like a conversation than a lecture. Whether I'm working with clients or fellow creatives, I believe that great design is born from shared understanding and a genuine passion for creating meaningful experiences.