I have learned about Tencent Maps' redesign approach, as well as its style and color scheme, which provided a reference for designing icons that align with the product's visual identity.
Light skeuomorphic icons combine 3D modeling or pseudo-3D with PS post-processing. Each features ~80% primary color for key elements and ~20% dark gray for stability. A gradient-filled, soft-colored rounded rectangle forms the background, with the darker tone at the top. Primary colors highlight memorable parts above the center, while dark gray anchors the bottom and edges for balance.
Flat icons with shadows and highlights, composed of 1-2 shades of the same color scheme. The darker color is applied to the key elements that need to stand out, while a small portion of colors is determined based on light, shadow, and visual depth.
As a functional app, creating intuitive and clear icons should always be the top priority. Therefore, the icons should ideally include symbols that users can understand without having to think.
For example, although the handset of an old-fashioned telephone has been phased out, its shape is deeply ingrained in people's minds and therefore remains the preferred symbol for phone icons.
The approach is similar to designing webpages by first adapting to small screens, as this helps to assess whether the correct elements have been chosen as the main features of the icon, avoiding the loss of recognizability when scaling down larger icons.
By directly using search engines to look for food-related icons, you can quickly identify which symbols are strongly associated with food.
Summarize the requirements for symbol selection by analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of alternative symbols.
Use chopsticks (a utensil that better represents the dining habits of Chinese people) to pick up a food item with an indistinct outline (showing inclusivity).
By directly using search engines to search for food-related icons, you can quickly identify which symbols are strongly associated with landmarks and attractions.
Search on both Baidu and Google to avoid cognitive biases across different regions. Even when targeting Chinese users, it’s crucial to maintain a certain level of universality for broader applicability.
Summarize the requirements for symbol selection by analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of alternative symbols.
An icon combining an ancient pagoda (culture), a signboard (scenic spot), and plants (nature).
