We’ve all been there—the design process is flowing smoothly, but then you hit a wall. The client asks for changes and revisions, and you’re left wondering: How do we get on the same page? It’s frustrating, right? This is where stylescapes come in.

What are stylescapes?

In short, a stylescape is a visual toolkit that combines typography, colors, textures, imagery, and branding elements to represent a design direction. Think of it as a mood board that’s fine-tuned to show the core of your design approach. A stylescape is an artboard where you can showcase the look and feel of a design for both web and mobile. From the most minor details (buttons, headers) to the overarching layout, you can create a cohesive vision before diving into the actual design. Stylescapes reveal what your client actually wants.

The problem: misaligned expectations

As designers, we’re not just creating something visually appealing. We’re crafting experiences, conveying a brand’s essence, and telling a story. But often, the challenge isn’t the design itself, it’s ensuring that your vision aligns with your client’s expectations. Without a clear direction, your designs might go in circles. And you know what that means, more revisions, more frustration.

How stylescapes make your life easier

I’ve used stylescapes for years now, and I’ve seen firsthand how they change the game. They bridge the gap between feedback and intent, so you’re not playing mind reader. Here’s how:

• Clarifying design direction: Stylescapes help you and your client agree on the design direction before work begins. You’re not just guessing what they want—you’ve got a visual roadmap.
• Faster approvals: Clients don’t always know how to communicate their design preferences. A stylescape provides a visual reference so they can instantly see whether the design aligns with their vision. This cuts down on the back-and-forth and speeds up approvals.
• Aligning everyone: Stylescapes align everyone, whether you’re working solo or with a team. You’ve got a clear direction that helps everyone involved stay on track. No more wondering if your team interprets the design the same way.
• Quick testing: Want to see if your design concept works before you start developing the final product? Stylescapes let you test the “look and feel” with your client. If they like it, you continue building. If not, you can quickly revise and get back on track.

My process for creating stylescapes

I made this in Figma, laying out key branding elements: typography, colors, imagery, UI components (H1, H2, body text, buttons). Design for web and mobile, refining from broad to detailed.

How do I create these stylescapes?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Gather Inspiration: Start by combining all the elements that convey the brand’s vibe, colors, textures, typography, and imagery.
• Set the Stage: Create an artboard in Figma for web and mobile design versions. It’s essential to see how the style translates across devices.
• Micro to Macro: Fine-tune the details, headers (H1, H2, H3), body text, buttons, then zoom out to ensure the overall design feels right.
• Print It: I always include an A4 printable version for clients who prefer a physical reference. It’s easy for them to review on the go.

Once everything comes together, I present the stylescape as a visual representation of the design direction. To quickly test the overall vibe with your client—if it clicks, move forward. If not, tweak and refine.

Takeaway

If you’re tired of revisions and miscommunications, stylescapes could be the solution you’re looking for. They offer a clear, visual direction that aligns you and your clients from the start. With stylescapes, you’ll design confidently and create designs that align with the client’s expectations. Once approved, stylescapes become a foundation to build the final design, saving time and frustration.

Let me know how it goes, and feel free to reach out if you want any tips or need help creating your own stylescapes!