Transitioning from a traditional field like architecture to a digital one like product design might seem daunting at first. However, the transition is not as dramatic as it seems. In fact, your background in architecture can serve as a strong foundation for your new journey. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can make this transition smoothly.
Step 1: Leverage Your Design Background
Architecture and product design share a common language of design principles.
An architect already possesses an understanding of the user-centric design process, spatial awareness, and aesthetic sensibility. All you need to do is apply these principles to a new context. For example, consider a mobile screen as your new "plot." Much like you'd arrange a house's layout, plan the user's journey through the application, placing the most used or most important functions upfront, and less frequently used features, like settings, deeper into the user's navigation path.
Step 2: Utilize Your Software Skills
As an architect, you likely have experience using design software such as Photoshop and Illustrator. While product design utilizes different tools, notably Figma, the basic functionalities are similar. Figma, like Illustrator, uses artboards, layers, groups, and a pen tool. Transfer your software knowledge to Figma and explore its features. As you grow more comfortable, start learning about more advanced features such as components, auto-layout, and prototyping.
Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with UI Elements
Before starting your first project, spend time getting to know the UI elements common in most applications.
Replicating existing app screens can be an effective exercise for this purpose.
Choose three different apps and try to reproduce their screens on Figma. This exercise will help you identify and understand various UI elements like icons, navigation bars, headers, typography, and lists.
Step 4: Study Design System Libraries
To deepen your understanding of these elements, refer to existing open design system libraries such as Material Design, Atlassian Design, and Ant Design.
These libraries provide exhaustive information on different UI elements, their properties, and how they interact with each other.
Studying them will enhance your understanding of product design and prepare you to design better interfaces.
Step 5: Build a Portfolio
Finally, start working on small projects to build your product design portfolio.
Freelance work, personal projects, or redesigning existing applications are excellent ways to showcase your skills. Remember, your portfolio should reflect your understanding of UI/UX principles and demonstrate your ability to solve problems creatively.
The transition from architecture to product design is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. By leveraging your existing skills and expanding your knowledge, you can successfully navigate this exciting new field.