Building Scalable Design Systems with React and Tailwind
A well-architected design system is crucial for maintaining consistency across large applications.
Design System Architecture
Core components:
- Design tokens
- Component library
- Documentation
- Testing strategy
Token System
export const tokens = { colors: { primary: { 50: '#f0f9ff', 500: '#0ea5e9', 900: '#0c4a6e', }, }, spacing: { xs: '0.25rem', sm: '0.5rem', md: '1rem', }, };
Component Patterns
Composition
<Card> <Card.Header>Title</Card.Header> <Card.Body>Content</Card.Body> <Card.Footer>Actions</Card.Footer> </Card>
Variants
Using CVA (Class Variance Authority):
const button = cva("btn", { variants: { intent: { primary: "btn-primary", secondary: "btn-secondary", }, }, });
Documentation with Storybook
Essential for:
- Component discovery
- Visual testing
- Usage examples
- Accessibility audits
Accessibility First
Every component must:
- Support keyboard navigation
- Include ARIA labels
- Pass WCAG 2.1 AA standards
- Work with screen readers
Conclusion
A solid design system accelerates development and ensures consistency across your product ecosystem.
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