Problem
Most modern news and media websites prioritize content volume and ad density, often resulting in cluttered layouts, poor readability, and confusing navigation. The client wanted Pressvia to feel different clean, modern, and focused on reading, not distractions.
Role
I worked as the solo Product Designer at Merge Studio, responsible for the full design lifecycle. This included research, layout decisions, visual design, and usability considerations. The project was completed in a 3-week fast-paced timeline, requiring focused decision-making and clear design direction from the start.
Process
I began with competitor research, analyzing well-known digital publications to identify common usability issues such as visual clutter, inconsistent hierarchy, and intrusive ad placements. These insights helped define what Pressvia should not be. From there, I designed the information architecture with a strong emphasis on separation and clarity articles, navigation, ads, and metadata all needed clearly defined roles within the layout. Using Figma, I explored multiple layout directions before settling on a minimal structure that prioritizes content flow. A neutral background color (#F5F5F5) paired with dark text shades (#121212) was chosen to improve contrast and long-form readability. Typography, spacing, and line length were carefully refined to reduce eye strain and maintain reading focus. Special attention was given to:
Process
I began with competitor research, analyzing well-known digital publications to identify common usability issues such as visual clutter, inconsistent hierarchy, and intrusive ad placements. These insights helped define what Pressvia should not be. From there, I designed the information architecture with a strong emphasis on separation and clarity articles, navigation, ads, and metadata all needed clearly defined roles within the layout. Using Figma, I explored multiple layout directions before settling on a minimal structure that prioritizes content flow. A neutral background color (#F5F5F5) paired with dark text shades (#121212) was chosen to improve contrast and long-form readability. Typography, spacing, and line length were carefully refined to reduce eye strain and maintain reading focus. Special attention was given to:
Outcomes
The final design delivers a clean and modern publishing experience that puts content first. Articles are easier to read, navigation feels predictable, and the overall interface supports both readers and writers without unnecessary complexity.
From a UX perspective, the platform demonstrated:
Pressvia launched with a scalable design system that supports future growth while maintaining the minimal, modern aesthetic defined at the start of the project.
