Curious by nature.
Rigorous by practice.
I'm Grant Thomas — a UX Designer and Product Strategist based in Brooklyn, NY. For over a decade I've been turning complicated systems into experiences that actually make sense to the humans using them.
My path to UX design started in an unexpected place: exploring settings pages in video games as a kid. I was fascinated by how small interface changes could dramatically impact the experience. Growing up immersed in digital worlds taught me to recognize what works — and more importantly, what doesn't — in user interfaces.
What drives me most is solving real problems for real people. There's always something fresh in each design challenge, and there's deep satisfaction in taking someone's genuine frustration and turning it into a smooth, accessible experience. I transitioned from visual design at an agency that talked about user experience but never practiced it, to working with teams that actually prioritize users and accessibility.
My approach centers on discernment, curiosity, and groundedness. I start every project with deep discovery — understanding all the inputs, constraints, and context before jumping to solutions. My unique perspective comes from bridging analytical thinking with human empathy, informed by my ongoing reading in psychology and Buddhist philosophy.
I'm passionate about accessibility and working directly with developers to ensure designs are both beautiful and feasible in production. I don't want to toss work "over the wall" — I thrive in collaborative environments where I can engage directly with stakeholders and technical teams throughout the entire build.
Outside of work, I'm a street photographer inspired by masters like Vivian Maier and Henri Cartier-Bresson, with a minor in art history. These days you'll find me playing relaxing games like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing while listening to audiobooks — a perfect blend of digital interaction and continuous learning.