Libry · 2025
Overview
Libry's interface felt visually inconsistent and off-brand. They partnered with Tierra to redesign their icons with purpose — using thoughtful colour choices and brand alignment to create a user experience that feels both intuitive and uniquely theirs.
Outcome
A custom icon system that achieved visual cohesion, brand alignment, and purposeful design — supporting user experience while communicating the product's creative focus. "The moment we switched from emojis to custom icons, it all just clicked." — Libry Team
About Libry
Libry initially used standard emojis for in-app icons, inspired by platforms like NomadList. However, user feedback revealed the interface appeared inexpensive rather than creative. The icons felt disconnected from the brand identity — and for a platform built around serious creative work, that mismatch was quietly undermining the entire user experience.
The Challenge
Standard emojis made the interface look inexpensive rather than creative — the opposite of the impression Libry needed to make.
User feedback consistently described the icon system as feeling disconnected from the brand identity, undermining trust in the product.
The visual inconsistency created an interface that didn't feel uniquely Libry's — it could have belonged to any app.
A complete visual redesign was needed that would be both on-brand and purposeful, without disrupting the established UI structure.
How We Helped
Developed a bespoke icon system from scratch — moving entirely away from standard emojis to icons that were designed specifically for Libry's identity and use cases.
Applied a signature lilac-to-violet gradient reflecting imagination, creativity, and a sense of wonder — tones psychologically tied to the creative spirit at the heart of Libry's platform.
Introduced green accents (aperture for camera, pencil stroke for writing, play button for video) mirroring Libry's primary call-to-action colour — creating visual consistency throughout the entire interface.
Every colour choice was intentional and documented — creating a replicable system that any designer could use to extend the icon library consistently in the future.
The Outcome
Visual Cohesion Achieved
The new icon system unified the interface — every icon now belongs to the same visual family, creating a consistent and professional experience throughout the app.
Brand Identity Strengthened
The custom icons became a distinguishing feature of Libry's interface — something that felt uniquely theirs rather than borrowed from a generic library.
User Experience Improved
"The moment we switched from emojis to custom icons, it all just clicked. The UI felt like us." — Libry Team
Scalable Design Language
The documented colour system and icon guidelines mean Libry can extend the icon set as the product grows — without losing the consistency that makes it work.
