Quiet design, loud results

Client:
• IAAPS
Role:
• Head of Creative Design
• UI design
Tools used:
• XD
• Figma
• Photoshop
Agency:
Digital Wonderlab
Project impact:

+100% increase in qualified enquiries

+126% increase in time spent on site
Overview:

IAAPS is a world-leading research and innovation centre developing clean propulsion technologies. As part of a full website redesign at Digital Wonderlab, I led the UI design – translating a complex technical offer into a confident, future-facing digital presence.

The result is a clean, intuitive interface that reflects IAAPS’s dual identity as both academic institution and commercial R&D partner. The redesign helped double qualified enquiries and significantly increase engagement – and was later recognised with a Best UX award at the 2022 Techies.

Challenge

  • Create a UI that balances academic credibility with commercial clarity.
  • Present technical content in a way that feels clear, calm and accessible.
  • Support a broad user base – from researchers and policy makers to industry partners.

Solution

  • Designed a clean, confident interface that communicates complexity with clarity.
  • Used calm typography, generous space and restrained colour to bring focus and structure.
  • Added subtle motion and interaction to support hierarchy and usability.
  • Collaborated closely with UX, development and client teams to ensure cohesion.

Results

The redesigned site made a measurable difference to both perception and performance, seeing a 100% increase in qualified enquiries, a 126% increase in time spent on site and a reduced bounce rate.

IAAPS now has a platform that reflects its ambition – one that’s clear, confident and built to grow with them.

The IAAPS website on a smartphone.
The IAAPS website on a smartphone.
The IAAPS website on a smartphone.

Reflections

This project was a chance to show how UI design can do heavy lifting – making complexity feel calm, and technical credibility feel accessible. Thoughtful, collaborative execution turned a complex challenge into a confident, high-performing site.

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