Nice to meet you
I'm Elie — a product designer who designs and builds.
Most designers can't build. Most developers can't design. I do both. I got here through a natural evolution, not a bootcamp. That's my superpower.
How I got here
2010–2020 — The foundation. I started as a web and graphic designer: HTML, CSS, Photoshop, WordPress. I grew from junior to senior at GAPLabs over eight years. That gave me something many "pure UX designers" don't have: I understand how things are built. I've touched code. I know what's feasible.
2021–2022 — The pivot to UX. I taught web design (which sharpened communication and mentoring), then moved into pure UI/UX at GAPLabs. I learned Figma deeply, worked with stakeholders, used analytics and heatmaps, and focused on user-centered design.
2023–2024 — The hybrid contractor. I worked contract and part-time doing both design and light development — translating Figma to code, maintaining WordPress sites, improving UX flows. I was already bridging design and development.
2025–now — The builder. With AI coding tools (Cursor, v0), I stopped being afraid of building. I started creating working prototypes — not just mockups, but real, functional products. I went from "designer who can code a little" to "designer who ships."
I believe in making things simple. Good design starts with empathy and leads to clear, practical solutions. I love working with people who care about thoughtful design.
When I'm not designing or building, you'll find me journaling, gardening, or taking photos — things that keep me inspired and curious.
Want the full picture?
My CV has the full timeline, skills, and references. Download it or get in touch.