YouTube Recreation Challenge

The Reason

This challenge came from a mentor who told me, “If you can recreate YouTube, you can design anything.” The goal was to test my ability to rebuild a complex, real-world interface using only observation and design fundamentals.

The Process

Starting with a screenshot of YouTube’s homepage, I analyzed the spacing, proportions, and visual hierarchy. Every detail, from the grid system to the alignment of icons, was recreated by hand.

I built every element from scratch, including all vector icons, cards, and text styles. The only reference I allowed myself was the screenshot. No templates or assets were used.

When shown side-by-side with the real YouTube homepage, people couldn’t immediately tell them apart. This exercise taught me how to spot micro-level spacing and hierarchy patterns that define well designed interfaces.

The Result

The YouTube recreation strengthened my understanding of grid-based layouts, typography, and component consistency. It pushed me to pay attention to fine details skills I now apply to every design I create.