Alex Nicolai

Independent Software Designer for startups living in Atlanta, GA

Issue #296 May 7, 2023

About

Alex Nicolai is an independent software designer for startups that need to go from 0 to V1.0.

He's currently leading the design team for Tomorrow, where they are creating an internet bank powered by bitcoin with thoughtful and human-centered design.

He's also involved on a few agency projects ranging from UI/UX designs to no-code website development. And he's currently learning SwiftUI and AI-assisted design/development.

My beloved mug from Anthropologie was a present from my wife, Bianca (@biancanicolai__). The elegant floral pattern with gold accents is invigorating and continues to be a source of inspiration to me.

Photos

6 images

Gear

11 items

Monitor Apple Studio Display Buy

Computer Mac Studio

Keyboard Apple Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse and Magic Touchpad

Headphones Apple AirPods Max Buy

Keyboard iPad Pro 11” 2018 with Magic Keyboard Folio

Accessories Amber 15 Minute Hourglass from Ugmonk Buy

Accessories Coaster and mug from Anthropologie Buy

Accessories Field Notes Buy

Accessories Kindle Oasis Buy

Accessories Muji Pens and Sticky Notes

Accessories Replica Candle

The census

Only 3% of the desks we’ve published have Alex’s Mac Studio.

Ranked across all 516 setups that list their gear.

Apple Studio Display 17%

iPad Pro 17%

Apple AirPods Max 10%

Mac Studio 3%

See top 50 gear items ›

Interview

3 questions

› How do you spark creativity?

I draw inspiration from a range of creative sources, such as fashion magazines, designers on Twitter, traveling, music and film. I believe it's important to keep your mind open to new ideas, as this can be the spark for creativity. However, my most meaningful and creative source of inspiration comes from conversations. It's through these conversations that I find some of my best ideas.

› How do you manage work-life balance?

My to-do list is the foundation of everything I do. I have been using Things 3 by Cultured Code for almost 5 years and it has become invaluable to me; I couldn't imagine my life without it. It helps me find a balance between my work and personal life.

› What do you think is the main benefit of remote work?

For almost 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to work remotely, and the biggest benefit has been the ability to create a comfortable space where I can thrive creatively.