The second version we created of the site

Youth Hostel Association of England & Wales (1999-2002)

My first ever really fun, crafted looking website. Also my first ever for a registered charity. I really enjoyed this one.

Having looked at all of the other YHA websites and only really being impressed with the Australian one by Red Square I felt inspired and got all loosened-up aesthetically. The result was a visually playful, friendly and warm experience for the user. Luckily the client enjoyed a bit of fun too so it was a happy marriage.

My illustration skills were extremely important to the overall look - and were kept loose and kinetic. Furthermore I created some painterly touches with the Painter application which had laid around office idle for a couple of years. I think the work that Dublin's Web Factory had done in their early years when they were massively design-driven was another source of inspiration to me then - before websites got awfully complex! It seemed clear to me that their designers often had strong drawing and illustration skills.

Looking back at old work now, even though it's of a lower standard; it can still surprise me. I'd like to try that rich, hand-made look again.