Peanut
Overview
Peanut is the result of a fun personal project: a dating app that matches the user based on compatible allergies.
The Process
Research
Definition
Ideation
Prototype
Research
The research was based on 8 interviews: 4 people with allergies, 3 without allergies, and 1 medical doctor. The goal was to empathize with this group and explore how allergies influence their behaviors, emotions, and dating experiences.
I learned that non-allergic people are generally willing to adapt and be mindful of their partner’s allergy—especially if they’re genuinely interested in the person. Their willingness often depends on the context and severity of the allergy. Allergic individuals, on the other hand, appreciate when their crush is aware, tolerant, or ideally, fully understanding—either because they share the same allergy or have compatible lifestyles. Many expressed a desire to avoid relying on antihistamines all the time just to maintain a relationship.
To synthesize the insights, I created an affinity diagram and a mind map, which helped me organize and analyze the data effectively.
User Persona
Based on the research, I defined two user personas: a primary user—someone affected by allergies—and a secondary potential user without allergies who is willing to be tolerant and considerate if they like the other person. For this challenge, I focused the user flow on the primary user.
Information Architecture
Before designing, I create user flows and sitemaps to define the structure and logic of the experience.
User flows clarify how users navigate key tasks, while sitemaps organize content and features.
This ensures the design is user-centered, efficient, and aligned across teams from the start.
Wireframes
Wireframes helped define the layout, functionality, and user interactions of the app—focusing on clarity, usability, and core user needs before moving into visual design.
Styleguide
I created the styleguide to establish a consistent visual language—defining typography, color, and UI components. This ensures coherence across screens and streamlined the high-fidelity design process.
Illustrations
I designed illustrations to add warmth, personality, and a touch of fun to the app—making the experience feel more human and engaging for users.
The solution
When designing the UI, I kept Laura’s needs and goals front and center. As a 30-year-old woman with a cat allergy who loves cinema and books, I focused on making the experience intuitive and easy for her to navigate. The design prioritizes accessibility, ensuring she can quickly filter potential matches based on allergy compatibility, as well as shared interests like movies and books. To make the experience more personal, I included playful, friendly visuals that reflect her love for her dog and her desire to have fun while finding new connections.
