At Sites at Scale, we’re always looking for ways to push our creativity, sharpen our communication, and become better collaborators—not just for our clients, but within our own team. So when we heard that Design Gym was back, hosted by none other than Josh Loh, founder of The Digital Third, we jumped at the chance to join.
And we’re glad we did.
Design Gym didn’t just deliver a workshop—it sparked a shift in how we think, speak, and create as designers.
What is Design Gym?
Design Gym is a creative training ground led by Josh Loh—a designer, speaker, and former Webflow Community MVP. Through The Digital Third, he brings together designers and creatives from all walks of life to do one thing: practice the art of design in public.
It’s not about perfect decks or polished mockups.
It’s about experimentation, real feedback, and learning to express ideas confidently.
Why We Joined
At Sites at Scale, our team is built on design thinking and rapid execution. But like any growing agency, we face challenges:
- Pitching ideas clearly
- Explaining creative direction to clients
- Giving (and receiving) feedback that actually builds momentum
- Creating space for play in a fast-paced delivery environment
Design Gym gave us the space to train those muscles—together.
What We Learned
1. Creativity Loves Constraints
From limited-time exercises to structured prompts, we discovered how restrictions actually fuel innovation. No more blank canvas paralysis—just purposeful creation.
2. Communication is a Skillset, Not a Talent
One major unlock was learning how to present and defend our work with clarity. Josh encouraged us to not just show the what, but explain the why—a game changer when presenting to clients or stakeholders.
3. Feedback is a Two-Way Mirror
We practiced giving feedback that wasn’t just “nice” or “cool” but specific, constructive, and empathetic. In turn, we learned how to receive feedback without defensiveness—fueling better, faster iterations.
4. Design is a Conversation
Every creative piece is a chance to start dialogue—not just deliver content. That shift in mindset has already impacted how we approach UI/UX reviews, brand concepts, and even internal brainstorming.
The Value of Learning Together
What made this experience so meaningful wasn’t just the takeaways—it was doing it as a team.
- We laughed.
- We struggled.
- We supported each other.
- And we left with a shared language for how to grow—together.
Design Gym reminded us that we’re not just developers, designers, or marketers—we’re creative athletes, and training matters.
Huge Thanks to Josh Loh
To Josh and the entire Design Gym community: thank you. Your energy, clarity, and vulnerability created a space where everyone—from introvert to extrovert, junior to senior—felt safe to stretch.
Josh’s style isn’t about being the smartest in the room. It’s about building the room where everyone grows.
What’s Next for Sites at Scale?
We’re already bringing the lessons from Design Gym into our own workflow:
- More intentional creative reviews
- Pitch practice sessions
- Open feedback huddles
- “Design under pressure” team exercises
And maybe… just maybe… we’ll be stepping into the Design Gym arena again soon. 😏
