Design Token Architecture
SHIPPEDA semantic token system that separates primitive values from contextual usage, enabling theming across multiple client brands without duplicating components.
The problem
Every client engagement started from scratch. Designers were copying and modifying components from previous projects by hand, introducing drift and errors. There was no source of truth.
The solution
A two-layer token model: primitives (raw values) and semantic tokens (contextual meaning). Each client brand overrides only the primitive layer — all semantic tokens and component logic remain shared.
Key decisions
We debated building per-client component libraries vs a single shared system. Per-client was faster to start but would have multiplied maintenance. The shared system required upfront alignment across project leads, but paid off by the third engagement — new clients were deliverable in 40% less setup time.
Outcome
The token system was adopted across 5 active client projects within 6 months of launch. Rework from inconsistency dropped significantly across sprint reviews.