Piko Pixel
Role: UX, Visual, Development
Client: Me :)
Platform: Web
Piko Pixel originated from a blend of personal nostalgia for 90s UI visuals and a heartfelt homage to my affection for Geocities. It stemmed from a desire to carve out a corner of the internet that felt distinctly my own. Reflecting on my childhood, I recall a strong longing for my Win95 interface to resemble the captivating aesthetic of Sailor Moon. This journey into retro-inspired design has been a labor of love, merging fond memories with a passion for creating a digital space that resonates with both myself and others.
// Responsibilities
For this project, I've taken on full responsibility, covering every aspect from conception to execution. My vision was to develop an application interface that embodies the charm of Windows 95, serving as a platform to showcase my artwork, games I've contributed to, and a personal blog. My overarching goal was to encapsulate the enchanting essence of the late 1990s and early 2000s internet era—a time of boundless creativity before the establishment of website conventions.Furthermore, I aimed to push the boundaries of technology by integrating ChatGPT into the website creation process, exploring its capabilities in this unique context. This endeavor not only allows me to express my creativity but also serves as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of digital innovation.
Initial Design
In my initial design concept, I envisioned crafting a charming computer reminiscent of the 1991 Macintosh Classic. Drawing inspiration from the off-white hue of monitors from that era, I infused touches of pink and sage to add personality to the buttons. The mock-up interface I devised includes a selection of applications such as games, artwork galleries, a blog, an about section, and a contact page, each contributing to the overall nostalgic experience.
To further enhance the authenticity of the design, I incorporated CRT lines across the screen, aiming to evoke the distinctive visual characteristic of old cathode-ray tube monitors. These details not only pay homage to the era but also add a layer of authenticity, inviting users to immerse themselves in the retro-inspired interface.
Development Exploration
Custom Pixel Art Icons
Pixel art holds a special place in my heart, serving as the cornerstone of my creative endeavors. I thoroughly enjoyed the process of reimagining game logos I've contributed to, like Halo: Infinite, with a nostalgic twist tailored for Windows 95. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Windows icons of yesteryears, I delved into their designs for reference.
In my reinterpretations, I maintained the original shapes of the icons while playing with the palette to infuse them with a fresh, pixelated charm. For instance, I transformed the classic Windows start icon into a heart shape, while toning down the vibrant colors to harmonize with the overarching pastel theme. This approach allowed me to strike a balance between homage and innovation, preserving recognition while injecting a delightful retro flair into each design.
Application Styling
In styling the applications, I adhered closely to the Windows 95 interface, striving to maintain its iconic aesthetic while injecting subtle modifications to enhance cohesion with the overall design theme. One such alteration involved lightening the dark grey of the application bar to a softer shade, while preserving consistency in the borders and shadows.
Moreover, I meticulously crafted each application with a matching Windows 95 design, ensuring that they seamlessly integrate with the nostalgic ambiance of the interface. By staying true to the original design principles while incorporating subtle adjustments, I aimed to evoke a sense of familiarity and nostalgia while offering a fresh and cohesive user experience.
Final Thoughts
The final version of my project differed slightly from my initial vision. I chose not to incorporate the computer frame as it detracted from the site's readability. However, I'm considering reintroducing it in the next iteration. Ensuring mobile compatibility across various screens required significant time and effort. Additionally, I added music—a core component of browsing Geocities sites in the 90s—to enhance the nostalgic experience.
Overall, this project taught me valuable lessons. It was a fun experience, and I was pleasantly surprised by ChatGPT's capabilities in development.