branding
In 2021 I took on my first job as a designer for HappyPorch. Fresh out of uni, little did I know that my self-taught digital design skills and the culture of growth at HappyPorch would lead to over four years of ongoing partnership.
The company was on the precipice of a full rebrand back then, so I was thrown right in the proverbial deep end. The big-picture branding had already been developed but I got stuck into expanding our asset library and implementing the new look across some pages of the HappyPorch website. As Barry’s trust in my vision and my confidence grew in parallel there was a shift from following these guidelines to actively developing, maintaining and managing all visual aspects of HappyPorch’s brand identity. I will admit that some of my earliest designs have glaring hallmarks of my inexperience as a designer. However, this does create a cool opportunity to critique and rework some of my older designs - a process which is ongoing as of 2025.
"Teo joined HappyPorch in 2021, initially on a short placement. We enjoyed
working with them so much that we’ve done everything we can to keep them on the team ever
since. Teo has been an outstanding member of HappyPorch. Their ability to quickly learn new
technologies, processes, and skills strongly complements their artistic and design talents.
They have developed their creative abilities into those of a professional UX/UI designer,
with a solid understanding of accessibility, usability, and the technical aspects of
effective web and mobile design. Teo communicates clearly, is intelligent, organised, and
proactive, and is an asset to any team."
Barry O'Kane, Founder of HappyPorch
I developed systems to make applying our new branding quick, easy and consistent. I created interactive Figma boards and Canva templates documenting layouts, colours and typographic hierarchies, suitable for the whole team.
I embarked on a self-directed learning project all about web accessibility standards, applying my newfound understanding of WCAG to our brand colours.
Read the deep-dive about the design process of the HappyPorch graphic library here.
Seasons greetings from HappyPorch!
One of my favourite little projects >
When designing for socials, I keep in mind that the software industry is full of polished, corporate styling, and Barry is keen to set HappyPorch apart in this regard. I add playful touches like the doodle graphics and a conversational tone. While still incorporating technical imagery, I reflect the company’s commitment to people and the planet by letting the designs feel warm, approachable and human.
^ While motion design isn’t part of my everyday work, I used this promotional video as an opportunity to develop those skills for the future.
social media / marketing