Hi I'm Nicolas..
A UX/UI designer, product designer, and researcher consultant dedicated to creating human-centered experiences that balance functionality and beauty. My work is driven by a passion for accessibility, inclusivity, and design systems that scale seamlessly.
Design Philosophy
Empathy First
Design is about people, not pixels. I’m passionate about understanding the unique needs, behaviors, and goals of users. By stepping into their shoes, I create thoughtful, intuitive solutions that bring clarity and delight to their everyday experiences.
Iterate, Innovate, Elevate
I thrive on iteration and collaboration, believing that the best designs emerge through exploration and feedback. I lean on my experience with design systems, agile workflows, and usability testing to refine ideas and deliver impactful results.
From Complexity to Simplicity
The magic of great design lies in making the complex feel simple. I enjoy breaking down intricate challenges into elegant, scalable solutions that not only meet user needs but exceed expectations. Let’s turn problems into possibilities.
Over 10 Years Designing for Impact
From startups to global organisations, I’ve spent over a decade creating user-centered designs that solve complex problems, enhance usability, and deliver meaningful results.
5+ Years Leading Design Systems and Teams
I specialise in building scalable, cohesive design systems that empower teams and create consistent, accessible digital experiences. Atomic design principles and collaboration are my superpowers.
Woodworking and Craftsmanship
In my free time, I craft functional art through woodworking. This hands-on practice sharpens my eye for detail and fuels my passion for creating with purpose and precision.
Case Studies
Connecting Bond Trading Efficiency with User-Centered Design
Fixed Income Trading Tools
Research, management, design, prototyping, and testing for restructured claims forms, enhancing usability for insurance professionals.
Digital Identity Platform
Scalable Design System
Concept, design, prototyping, and implementation of a cohesive design system, improving navigation and user satisfaction for a global audience.
Bringing Structure to OTC Trading UI
The Design System Library
Wireframes, prototypes, visual design, and a design system for real-time tools in fixed-income trading, simplifying complex workflows.
View Project (coming soon)
What People are saying
“Nick is an absolute professional with considerable skill. His guidance to my team was engaging and educational. Nick is an extremely positive person with a great attitude to work and will be an asset to any company, client and project.”
Yinka Okunade, Lead Technology Architect at CFC Underwriting, Ltd.
“Although I only worked with Nick for a few months, he quickly showed himself to be the kind of UX designer who spends time helping others understand how the design process works. As a result, Nick brings a valuable perspective to a software engineering team. He provides input on what will work best and brings the flexibility to collaborate. Added to this, his work is top notch, and Nick is a lot of fun to have around with the ability to lift the spirits of a team.”
Paul Wilford, Head of Technology Platform at CFC Underwriting, Ltd.
“Nicolas was a valuable addition to the company. I had the pleasure of working with Nicolas at Algomi where he produced some great work on our new product designs and was vital in maintaining the companies reputation for high standard of innovative UI/UX design. Nicolas was a friendly and fascinating man who was very easy to get on with.”
Peter Byrne, Executive Director, Head of Trading Technology at BCB Group
“I have known and worked closely with Nicolas while managing the development journey of a variety of brokers and underwriting products at CFC and found him a reliable and friendly peer. Nicolas has very good UX research/collaboration skills, which I hope he can leverage in any future endeavors. I wish him all the very best and will be happy to work with him again in the future.”
Valerie Renaud, Cybersecurity & Technology Leader | Digital Transformation & Change | Leading efficiency in Technology, People & Process | Mentor
Lets Chat.
nicolas.velez.uk@gmail.com
(0044) 077-9273-7238
London, UK