Instagram Rework

One of the most popular apps with one of the most recognizable interfaces is Instagram. In this project, I want to explore why Instagram’s UI is so successful, as well as understand why or why not its complex interface works comparative to a simple one. Sketching and utilizing wireframe applications to build a simplified version of Instagram will allow for a side-by-side comparison to the original app.

View in Figma

Sketching/Prototyping

By sketching, making connections, and sticking to the idea of a clean, consistent version of Instagram, I set myself up with a solid foundation to move into the design phase of this project. These are the final wireframe sketches I created after researching and gathering inspiration. Most of the changes I made weren’t huge—mainly reorganizing things rather than altering the core elements.

Profile

Following

Explore

Search

Activity

Messages

Stories

The screens displayed are my updated and “improved” version of Instagram’s features current to 2024. Many activities within the app are separated to improve app organization and to reduce user confusion. I also experimented with and implemented a hierarchy system, which is rarely/minimally used in Instagram’s current UI.

Holden Cubberley