An interface can function correctly while remaining difficult to read. Adam Wathan and Steve Schoger's Refactoring UI approaches that problem through concrete visual changes, giving developers a practical vocabulary for improving a screen.
Hierarchy Before Decoration
Visual hierarchy, spacing, typography, color, depth, and empty states are examined in relation to the task a feature needs to support. Size, contrast, weight, and layout become tools for making that purpose legible.
The book's strength is diagnosis. When everything has equal visual weight, a new palette may leave the problem intact. A spacing scale and a smaller set of type choices can improve readability while making later screens easier to build.
Applying the Advice
Developers building or refining an early interface will find a useful design reference. Visual tactics should be considered alongside usability feedback: the resulting screen still needs to help someone complete the intended task.
Get the Book
- Official site: Refactoring UI