Studio Contrast

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Product Manager of Runwise

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Smart HVAC controls

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Studio Contrast to accomplish?

• Redesign email notifications
• Design a dashboard to manage tenant complaints
• Design a feature that leverages hourly gas consumption data to improve UX

SOLUTION

How did you find Studio Contrast?

Referral

Why did you select Studio Contrast over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Studio Contrast were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We needed help designing two pretty important product areas:

1) A new workflow for managing HPD complaints in the app — something clearer, faster, and more actionable for building managers.
2) A way to turn hourly gas usage data into something useful. We finally got access to that data, so we needed smart UX to surface patterns, detect issues, and highlight savings opportunities.

Both of these areas are messy and can get complicated fast, so we wanted someone who could jump in, understand the context quickly, and make it simple for our users.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The features are still in development, so no hard metrics yet. But Calin helped us move fast — most of his first iterations were polished and thoughful, which saved us time and helped us reach a conclusion faster.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

We mainly worked through Slack and Loom. Calin delivers in quick 1–2 day cycles, responds fast, and keeps everything async-friendly. Very easy to work with.

What was your primary form of communication with Studio Contrast?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Calin’s speed and ability to understand complex systems stood out. Our workflows aren’t simple, but he picked them up right away and made them feel intuitive in the UI. Also, he has a strong eye for visual design, so the final screens looked polished and on-brand.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Studio Contrast could have done differently?

Nothing comes to mind. Smooth experience all around.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Former Chief of Staff of Benny

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

 Benny helps employees max out their ESPP benefits without impacting take-home pay. We built a platform guiding customers through understanding ESPP benefits, planning contributions, finding loan providers, and managing payments.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Studio Contrast to accomplish?

• UI UX Design for MVP of a ESPP lending web application

SOLUTION

How did you find Studio Contrast?

Mutual Online Community

Why did you select Studio Contrast over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Studio Contrast were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We hired Contrast to help think through the features we needed to have in our lending product, as well as design the user experience. Our goal was to design, build, and launch our MVP in about 2 months. Contrast was instrumental in achieving this timeline.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Like any start-up, we wanted to move fast. Contrast matched our pace and helped launch our MVP within the target timeframe. The design provided a solid foundation for future development.

We began with two workshops defining key system features. Calin then worked in 1-2 day iteration cycles, sending demos of design progress. We reviewed work and provided feedback via Slack and Figma. The process was clear, smooth, and efficient. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

We started with a couple of foundational meetings to ensure alignment. Afterwards, we continued async, though Calin was always happy to hop on a call as needed. Regardless, Calin sent us video recordings to update us every 2 days. He was highly responsive and communication was easy. 

What was your primary form of communication with Studio Contrast?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Contrast moves fast while maintaining quality standards. They understand startup requirements and MVP development. I appreciated the clear communication and frameworks Calin came to the table with to guide us through the design process.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Studio Contrast could have done differently?

Nothing to mention here. We can confidently recommend them to any startup looking for a strong design partner!

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the director of products at Allevate Financial.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Studio Contrast?

We needed help with design and branding. The overall goals were we wanted to revamp the marketing site. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Studio Contrast designed our marketing website and brand materials. They also revised our brand guide and created PowerPoint decks. The team gathered context by asking for reference materials, including our existing brand guide, marketing site, and product design. Studio Contrast provided initial designs and asked for feedback. They also provided a deck and asked for feedback. The team gave us advice on what worked and didn’t based on our feedback.

What is the team composition?

We worked with one person from Studio Contrast, Călin.

How did you come to work with Studio Contrast?

We found them through a referral. We chose them because of the quality of their work, though the referral was good, we still needed to see whether or not it was going to work out for our business. So, we set up a few meetings and reviewed their work. We were happy with that, so we decided to proceed.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent close to $50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from August 2024–May 2025.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Studio Contrast’s work met my expectations. The team had a fast turnaround time and was flexible with feedback. We went through several back and forth. The work was high-quality, and we continue to use it. Studio Contrast showcased their expertise and craftsmanship across all their work.

How did Studio Contrast perform from a project management standpoint?

Most of the time, Studio Contrast delivered on time and within budget. The team was responsive, but we would have liked them to be more proactive in reaching out to us. We used Slack for fast communication and email for slower communication. We also used Notion for project management.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Studio Contrast was responsive and flexible.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They could be more proactive in reaching out to clients.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Set a daily alarm to follow up on the work.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder of a software platform

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Software platform for moving companies

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Studio Contrast to accomplish?

• Create a strong visual brand identity that will help the company stand out amongst competitors and appeal to our ICP
• Clean up the product architecture and UX

SOLUTION

How did you find Studio Contrast?

Referral

Why did you select Studio Contrast over others?

• High ratings
• Work Samples

How many teammates from Studio Contrast were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We hired Contrast to do a full visual brand refresh, which include the logo, wordmark, website, a v1 of the landing page, and a bit of product design as well.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

A brand identity kit and v1 of the website landing page

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Calin was fast at responding to requests and deliverables. He clearly works quickly and manages his tasks very efficiently.

What was your primary form of communication with Studio Contrast?

Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Calin's visual design aesthetic is top notch. He's able to understand the business and was able to produce a brand identity kit that aligned strongly with our product and customer persona.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Studio Contrast could have done differently?

It would be great if there was some flexibiliy around their engagement model, either via time and materials or providing an estimate for what can be accomplished in a week/month. The current retainer model with one request at a time makes it somewhat difficult to get a sense of how much can be done in a month and can sometimes create a sense of "missing the boat".

To be clear, the retainer model can work very well for teams that have the resources.
Regardless, the quality of Calin's work is excellent and so is his work ethic.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing Consultant of B2B SaaS company.

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

B2B SaaS company dedicated to serving the needs of event planners and community builders.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Studio Contrast to accomplish?

• Founding Web Design
• Branding Assets

SOLUTION

How did you find Studio Contrast?

Referral

Why did you select Studio Contrast over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from Studio Contrast were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Worked with the founding team to establish brand positioning, creative direction, and ICP by delivering a website design and implementing it in Webflow.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Built a website from scratch using ambiguous information and feedback, delivering world-class design work and professionalism while advising the team on best practices in the industry. This website is a high-converting page targeted at our ICP that will punch above its weight as the startup looks to close early sales.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Items were delivered on time as promised and with high quality and great detail.

What was your primary form of communication with Studio Contrast?

Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Calin brought a strong sense of taste and clear perspective to the project, drawing on his background and expertise to inform thoughtful, well-grounded decisions. He collaborated well with the team and guided our company’s foundational design direction. Even with limited information, he exceeded expectations, delivering standout design work and helping us establish a top-tier brand.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Studio Contrast could have done differently?

No, he did well and did what we needed

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder of Mento Design Academy

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We help people transition into UX design through high-quality mentorship and cohort-based learning.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Studio Contrast to accomplish?

• Revamp the brand identity to make it resonate more with a design-conscious audience
• Redesign the website to increase conversion rate

SOLUTION

How did you find Studio Contrast?

My network

Why did you select Studio Contrast over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned
• focused on narrative, clarity, and conversion.

How many teammates from Studio Contrast were assigned to this project?

I worked directly with Calin, the founder.

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We started with brand strategy to clarify our positioning. From there, we developed a new identity and mood board to guide the creative direction. Then we mapped out the website content with a clear outline focused on user concerns and storytelling. Finally, they designed the site and are now implementing it in Webflow.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

It’s too early to tell but I love how the project turned out and we’re already seeing good signs.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Super organized. We had regular check-ins and were in constant content via Slack. Calin was quick to respond and always explained why behind every design choice. Felt more like a partner than a vendor.

What was your primary form of communication with Studio Contrast?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They don’t just make things pretty—they ask sharp questions and push for clarity. The strategy behind the design made the difference.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Studio Contrast could have done differently?

Honestly, no major complaints. The process was smooth. If anything, I wish we had started working with them sooner.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of Emporia Research

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

B2B Market Research Technology Platform.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Contrast Studio to accomplish?

• Brand Refresh

SOLUTION

How did you find Contrast Studio?

Online Search

Why did you select Contrast Studio over others?

Good value for cost

How many teammates from Contrast Studio were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We hired Contrast to redesign 3 decks for us. Before kicking off, we filled out a survey to better define our brand identity. Next, Contrast put together a moodboard to help us align on what our brand identitty could evolve into. Finally, we started working on the decks, which turned out great.

Collaboration and communication was done via email and Figma comments. Contrast did a great job for us so the back-and-forth was minimal. To make it more efficient, we also had edit access to the Figma file to make minor changes.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Our marketing collateral was all done in 2 weeks and we have a vision of how our brand identity could mature and evolve. The sales and pricing decks helped us make a great impression on our corporate clients.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

We worked fully async over email and Figma. Contrast Studio worked quickly, shared updates every couple of days, and delivered faster than we expected.

What was your primary form of communication with Contrast Studio?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Calin has a great eye for design. He also just quickly understood our brand identity and how to evolve it.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Contrast Studio could have done differently?

Nothing to mention. Contrast knocked it out of the park!

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.
I'm a senior product manager of a data-for-rewards platform. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Contrast Studio?

We hired Contrast Studio to bridge the gap between our transition from one in-house designer to another. We required a temporary solution until we found a new full-time designer. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Contrast Studio helped us ensure our engineering team stayed up to speed and had what they needed to finish building our product's MVP. Contrast Studio created a Notion board with templates for all the required tasks. We had to fill out those templates to request work from Contrast Studio. 

What is the team composition?

We only worked with Călin (Founder & Designer). 

How did you come to work with Contrast Studio?

We found Contrast Studio through a community newsletter that we're part of.
How much have you invested with them?

We spent around $5,000 for that one month of work.

What is the status of this engagement?

We engaged Contrast Studio from January–February 2024. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Contrast Studio helped us get our product's MVP to the finish line from a design perspective. We needed external support to ensure we finished our MVP functionalities, and the team designed last-minute things. Contrast Studio was very accommodating and helpful. 

How did Contrast Studio perform from a project management standpoint?

Contrast Studio delivered work on a weekly basis and always on time. The team respected the project's cost. Contrast Studio's Notion templates made it easy to request exactly what we needed. I just filled out those templates, and then Călin knew exactly how to design the pages and what our vision for the screens was. 

Are there any employees from the service provider's team that you would like to give a shout-out to in this review?

I want to highlight Călin's work; he was fantastic to work with.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Contrast Studio had an incredible design eye, and all the UI screens designed were beautiful. The team was able to catch our design system and our brand in such a short amount of time, which was impressive. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can't think of anything for Contrast Studio to improve. 

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

They’re a perfect match for early-stage startups that are looking for the skill set of an experienced designer at the cost of less than one designer.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Former CMO of SquareBook

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

SquareBook is a digital platform for companies to raise equity capital

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Contrast Studio to accomplish?

• Design a new UI for our SaaS product
• Provide a comprehensive UI kit
• Design a new marketing website
• Give better definition to brand look and feel

SOLUTION

How did you find Contrast Studio?

Previously worked with Calin from Contrast Studio. It was an easy decision.

Why did you select Contrast Studio over others?

• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned
• I knew how good Calin is

How many teammates from Contrast Studio were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

We worked with Contrast on the design of our web platform and landing page. Our aim was to refine the product by fixing low-effort-high-impact UX issues and improving the UI’s look and feel. The main deliverable was a UI design. After a kickoff call, this was the revised scope of work: 

• UX audit - List of recommendations for MVP 
• UI - the best-looking UI possible with the structure, task flows, and functionality we currently have
• Mock-ups for three screens, effectively comprising a base design system

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Contrast produced UI designs that we were very happy with, and all stakeholders at our end agreed they were excellent. We implemented them immediately. Contrast knocked it out of the park for us. Communication flowed seamlessly, and the designs were top-notch. We collaborated effectively throughout the entire design journey, with Calin consistently quick to address our feedback. It was the ideal working experience.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

We started with a kick-off meeting. After that, we worked async with occasional meetings to discuss feedback and make changes. Contrast delivered everything on time and managed the project efficiently, always responding immediately to emails and messages and taking quick action whenever needed. The project took about two months.

What was your primary form of communication with Contrast Studio?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They didn't just deliver superb designs; they were well-organized and professional throughout the entire process. While I'd worked with other design studios in the past, Contrast impressed me with meticulous attention to detail and dedication. Their quickness to respond made a huge difference to the success of the project, and Calin is simply an outstanding UI designer with an unusually good ability to intuit user needs and to know what will and won't work. He also asks great questions.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Contrast Studio could have done differently?

Contrast nailed this project. From start to finish, everything went well. They delivered great work *and* they were a pleasure to work with. Honestly, there's nothing I can think of that should’ve been done differently.