Context

I created .nook as a small, independent space to build simple, useful apps for motion designers.

The aim was to make design tools that feel intuitive and polished, without bloat or friction, and to offer them in a way that keeps them accessible, free or pay-what-you-want, so anyone can benefit regardless of budget.

Role

• Defined the guiding principles behind .nook: simplicity, clarity, and usefulness
• Designed and built a collection of After Effects tools from concept to release
• Managed distribution, documentation, updates, and community support
• Maintained a fair pricing model that supports development without paywalling access

Solution

• Built focused tools that solve specific workflow problems cleanly, such as QuickFlip, Variations, Square Peg and others
• Avoided feature creep, prioritising speed, clarity and frictionless workflows
• Created consistent documentation and UI patterns so each tool feels approachable and familiar
• Released everything through a transparent, community-friendly model (free or name-your-price)

Impact

• Thousands of downloads across the tools, with strong community feedback and repeat users
• Helped motion designers speed up everyday tasks and reduce repetitive admin
• Built trust through consistent quality and accessible pricing
• Established .nook as a small but reliable source of thoughtful, well-crafted utilities in the AE ecosystem