I Code and Design Together

May 8, 2025

Design vs Art - A visual comparison showing the distinct characteristics of both disciplines Img from Pinterest. Please contact for credit or removal.

I don't open a design tool, drag boxes, pick colors, and make a layout. Then code.
I open my code editor, and I start building. As I write code, the design comes alive. For me, design isn’t a separate step.It happens while I build.
I love this process. It’s like sketching, but my pencil is code.

It has advantages, but also some clear challenges

Design = Reality, Figma looks better than the actual website.
I think in components.
Jumping straight into code saves time.
In code, it takes longer to try multiple variations.
Fast for solo work. Slow for team work.

The line between design and code will likely blur even further in the future. It's unclear whether design tools will become more code like or if coding environments will make iterating easier.
I feel It's better to design rough, and complete the vision in code.

✦ Good design isn't just how it looks, but how it works for everyone.