The Power of Play | Figma Blog
Laura Fehre’s experiment creating the Figma-based “Mani Mansion” shows how play can unlock creativity when perfectionism and rigid expectations get in the way. Although she initially rejected structure, she discovered that a flexible design system made experimentation easier and more enjoyable. The project ultimately became less about producing a perfect digital salon and more about creating something delightful and inspiring. ## Finding Inspiration in Everyday Experiences - Fehre drew inspiration from the childhood game *Barbie Nail Designer* and her own nail-salon appointments. - She explored real nail salons to capture their sounds, scents, textures, and ’90s aesthetic. - Sketches of plush seating, neon signs, and glossy counters helped translate the physical experience into an interactive Figma playground. - Her goal shifted from designing for efficiency to creating a space where users could lose track of time. ## When Disorder Needs Structure - Fehre initially made every nail shape unique, hoping to create a wild and unconventional experience. - This approach made layering and combining elements difficult, producing endless duplicates and a frustrating file. - She realized that structure and reusable components were necessary to support creative freedom. - The experience also exposed her insecurity about rusty graphic-design skills and unrealistic expectations. ## Reframing Problems as Play - Collaborating with fellow Designer Advocate Miggi Cardona helped Fehre turn creative frustration into experimentation. - They played with nail shapes and patterns without focusing on whether the results were “useful.” - Fehre recognized that trying to impress others had made failure feel threatening. - Letting go of perfection allowed setbacks to become opportunities for learning, humor, and discovery. ## Designing and Sharing the Final Manicure - Fehre created a mood board combining disco glitter, ’80s Versace influences, bold black clothing, “baddie” energy, and Valentine’s Day hearts. - A systematic set of nail shapes and colors gave her enough consistency to explore combinations freely. - She brought the resulting design to her nail technician as creative inspiration rather than an exact template. - The final manicure demonstrated how digital play can inspire real-world collaboration and expression. The practical lesson is that structure and play are not opposites. Designers can use systems as a foundation, then experiment freely within them—especially when the goal is delight rather than perfection.
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