Build the core experience first
Use the platform. Prefer defaults over unnecessary complexity. Measure outcomes, not novelty.
Clarity over cleverness
Consistency creates trust. The design should support trust and clarity, not perform cleverness.
Content before components
The message comes first. The interface supports it. Model content, not layout.
Accessibility is product quality
Accessibility is not a checklist. Design decisions should reduce friction before audits even begin.
Native before custom
Buttons should be buttons. Links should be links. Forms should work before enhancement. Custom UI must justify itself.
Performance is a feature
Fast is part of quality. Patterns should be lightweight. Avoid unnecessary libraries and JavaScript-first solutions for simple problems.
Maintainability beats cleverness
The best pattern is the one the next developer understands immediately. This reference exists to help teams ship better frontend, faster, with fewer expensive mistakes.