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Forging a Interdisciplinary Design Foundation Through Freelancing

CLIENT

Futureproof

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Overview

YEAR

2022

JOB TYPE

Freelance

ROLE

Interdisciplinary Designer

DURATION

3.5 years

Futureproof represents the formative years of my design career, a period of intense learning and entrepreneurial exploration. Fresh out of business school, I embarked on a freelance journey, driven by a passion to understand and shape digital experiences. This period was defined by a rapid evolution, starting with basic website design in Adobe XD and progressing to developing complex, responsive websites on Webflow, complete with custom automations and API integrations. I worked across diverse industries and with businesses of varying sizes, from nimble startups to established enterprises. This experience provided invaluable insights into the intersection of design, business, and technology, ultimately solidifying my dedication to product design.

As an independent designer and strategist, my role was highly versatile. I was responsible for the full spectrum of digital projects, from designing and developing websites on Webflow and Wix Studio to crafting comprehensive branding and marketing strategies. My toolkit included everything from Figma and illustrator, to Google Analytics and Facebook Ads, enabling me to deliver real results. I also focused on building strong client relationships, managing projects, and providing product design expertise. This multidisciplinary approach allowed me to develop a holistic understanding of the digital landscape.

The Challenge

Navigating New Technology

Starting out, I had to learn Webflow, EditorX, and design tools like Figma and Adobe Creative Suite, while also understanding how APIs, CMS, and automation work together
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Understanding Business Impact

I had to grasp how digital experiences drive business growth, learning strategies across industries, from digital marketing to product positioning
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Mastering Design Foundations

Building expertise in UX/UI required studying best practices, trends, and responsive design principles to create intuitive, high-quality experiences
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The Solution

Technology integration

Leveraged Webflow/EditorX, APIs, CMS, and custom automation to build dynamic, scalable websites and digital solutions
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business growth strategies

Developed and implemented comprehensive marketing, sales, and product strategies, driving tangible client growth
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design-driven solutions

Crafted user-centered design solutions, encompassing UX/UI, branding, and interaction design, to enhance user engagement
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Results

29

Client projects completed

6

Long-term retainers

3

Startups launched

This period as an independent designer and strategist was instrumental in shaping my career. I successfully delivered numerous projects, built long-term client relationships, and gained a wealth of knowledge across various disciplines. While the experience was incredibly rewarding, it also highlighted my desire for collaborative, team-oriented work. I sought opportunities to contribute to larger, impactful projects and to learn from the expertise of fellow designers. This journey laid the foundation for my transition into a collaborative product design role, where I could leverage my interdisciplinary skills to create meaningful user experiences.

To learn more about me or this project, let's connect!
Projects
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New York State Insurance Fund
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Accely Inc.
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Alokozay Shop
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Futureproof
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Home Depot

CHASE ALTHEN

Located in Denver, CO.

Designed and Built by

Chase Althen © 2025

WHAT I  ♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎

[skiing]  [dirt biking]  [surfing]

[cooking]  [traveling]

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