Snapchat

Project

A large-scale icon system designed to enhance Snapmap’s expressiveness and usability, aligning with Snapchat’s playful, globally inclusive visual identity.

Role

I led the visual design of a comprehensive location icon library for Snapchat’s Snapmap feature. This included concept exploration, icon system design, and execution of hundreds of scalable vector assets — all aligned with Snapchat’s youthful tone, fast-paced product culture, and global user base.

Challenge

Snapmap is a real-time map feature used to share location, explore surroundings, and discover activity across the globe. The design challenge was to develop a large, diverse, and cohesive icon system that clearly communicated hundreds of point-of-interest types — from everyday destinations to more niche categories — while remaining lightweight and joyful in visual tone.

Solution

I created a scalable icon system that balances detail with clarity — ensuring each icon remains recognizable at small sizes and in varying color modes. The system includes locations such as cafés, stadiums, skateparks, salons, grocery stores, pet shelters, and more. Each icon was optimized for Snapmap’s dynamic interface and built to maintain personality within technical constraints.

Preview

Impact

  • Improved Engagement: The expressive icon set made Snapmap more visually dynamic and inviting to explore.
  • Stronger Brand Voice: Reinforced Snapchat’s identity as fun, informal, and user-centered through every micro-interaction.
  • Global Accessibility: Designed for instant comprehension across cultures and age groups, without relying on language or text.