BRAND + PRODUCT + WEBSITE
2024
Developed by Catalyst Protocol team and launched on Nov 2024, CrossCats was an intent-based cross-chain swap protocol, built to connect every AltVM.
Understanding that a multi-chain future required a more modular approach to liquidity and execution, the Catalyst team rebranded to Crosscats and shifted toward an intent-based architecture powered by a network of solvers. This repositioned the product’s focus toward connecting Ethereum with alt-VM ecosystems like Bitcoin, Solana, Movement, and others.
The project was acquired by Li.Fi in January 2025 and the product was discontinued.
I was the sole designer, working directly with the PM, founder, and dev team to define the brand and end-to-end product UX/UI. The team was remote and global, with people from Brazil, United States, Italy, Poland, India, Denmark, Spain and Nigeria.
Illustrations and characters animations by Umi Labs.
Cats, eggs and islands
From the very beginning, we knew Crosscats had to stand out. While other players in the space leaned into dark, heavy aesthetics, we saw an opportunity to break away with something more inviting and distinctly our own.
The core message behind the project was simple: there’s an entire world of chains beyond Ethereum, and they should be connected.
To bring this idea to life, Jim, the CEO, developed a narrative that turned a technical concept into a story-driven universe. In this world, each blockchain exists as its own island, with distinct inhabitants, environments, and technological traits. At the center of the story is Cupcakes, an explorer cat, accompanied by a loyal sidekick, Huevos. Together, they travel from island to island, discovering new territories and linking them into a connected network.
The journey begins with the first destination: Bitcoin Island.
From AI to final design
Our focus was on making cross-chain swaps feel straightforward and easy to follow. The design prioritizes clarity, smooth flows, and strong visual feedback at every step. Micro-animations and transitions were used intentionally to guide attention and communicate with clarity and transparency.
Establishing a distinct look and feel was also important. Translating the brand’s visual language into the interface helped create a cohesive and fun experience.
Crosscats was shaped by lessons from Catalyst. While Catalyst had a broader scope, it often felt raw and unpolished, which made refinement a priority in the next iteration. The product remained intentionally simple, but the interface shifted from Catalyst’s horizontal layout to a more standard vertical flow, improving clarity and usability.
Transparency was also reinforced, keeping transaction steps and explorer links visible to build user trust. Instead of traditional loading indicators, transactions use a looping animation featuring the main characters, turning wait time into a more engaging and intentional part of the experience.
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