Design Principles

Core Design Principles

These principles guide all design decisions in the Demos ecosystem.

1. Clarity Over Cleverness

Design should communicate clearly and directly. Avoid unnecessary complexity or decoration that doesn't serve a purpose.

• Use clear, descriptive labels

• Maintain visual hierarchy

• Prioritize readability

• Keep interactions predictable

2. Consistency Builds Trust

Consistent design patterns help users feel confident and comfortable. They know what to expect and how things work.

• Use established patterns

• Maintain consistent spacing

• Apply colors systematically

• Keep typography predictable

3. Accessibility is Essential

Design for everyone, regardless of ability. Accessibility isn't optional—it's fundamental.

• Maintain proper color contrast (WCAG AA minimum)

• Support keyboard navigation

• Provide clear focus indicators

• Use semantic HTML

• Include descriptive alt text

4. Performance Matters

Fast experiences feel better. Optimize for speed without sacrificing quality.

• Optimize images and assets

• Minimize JavaScript when possible

• Use efficient CSS

• Implement lazy loading

• Test on real devices

5. Mobile First, Always

Design for mobile first, then enhance for larger screens. Most users access on mobile devices.

• Start with mobile layouts

• Use responsive breakpoints

• Touch-friendly targets (44px minimum)

• Test on actual devices

6. Content is King

Design serves content, not the other way around. Let content breathe and be the focus.

• Generous whitespace

• Clear content hierarchy

• Readable line lengths (45-75 characters)

• Appropriate line height (1.5-1.6 for body text)

Applying These Principles

/* Example: Accessible, performant button */
.button {
  /* Clear visual hierarchy */
  background: rgb(246, 246, 246);
  color: rgb(0, 0, 0);
  
  /* Touch-friendly size */
  min-height: 44px;
  padding: 12px 24px;
  
  /* Clear focus indicator */
  outline: 2px solid transparent;
  outline-offset: 2px;
}

.button:focus-visible {
  outline-color: rgb(246, 246, 246);
}

/* Consistent, predictable interaction */
.button:hover {
  background: rgb(220, 220, 220);
  transform: translateY(-1px);
}