I’m Daan, a UX and digital product designer based in the Netherlands. I work across the full width of a problem: research, concept, interface, and the conversations that connect them. Usually the problem isn’t obvious yet, and someone has to dig around before the right thing to build becomes clear.
The work in between spans workshops, prototypes and usability tests, and I gravitate toward the messiest part of each. Mostly I just keep asking why until the answer stops changing.
Where I’ve worked
Currently at Nationale-Nederlanden, figuring out how to responsibly serve customers with complex mortgage situations. Before that: funda, where everyone in the Netherlands goes to find a home. Ace & Tate, rethinking how you buy glasses online and off. Werkspot, connecting homeowners with the right professionals. And Powerly, making it easier for homeowners to be part of the energy transition.
Off the clock
Away from a screen, I run: mostly through the dunes and along the coast, sometimes solo, sometimes with Haag Atletiek. I read constantly and now track it, currently-reading included. And I like to go places — from months in Asia to camping on the Veluwe, and Paris is the one I keep going back to.
Get in touch
If you want to talk — about a role, a project, or just to compare notes — I’m easy to reach. daan.smulders@gmail.com.