Hi! I’m Denise.
I’m a designer with a love for simplicity.
Hi! I’m Denise.
I’m a designer with a love for simplicity.
Hi! I’m Denise.
I’m a designer with a love for simplicity.

Denise Padernilla
Denise Padernilla
Product Designer & UX Researcher
Based in Toronto, I’m a designer/ researcher with a background in healthcare operations and a passion for designing thoughtful, human-centered digital experiences.
I’m particularly interested in understanding why people struggle with a product or system before jumping into solutions. My approach combines user research, empathy, systems thinking, and visual design to uncover user needs, simplify complex workflows, and turn insights into intuitive and accessible products.
My experience in healthcare has shaped the way I think about design. Working closely with people, processes, and time-sensitive systems has taught me that good design isn’t just about making something look good — it’s about making things clearer, easier, and more human for the people who rely on them.
Today, I’m especially interested in healthcare, digital health, wellness, and everyday products where thoughtful research and design can make a meaningful difference.
Outside of design, you’ll usually find me journaling, sketching, curating moodboards, listening to music, or building little digital experiments just because I had an idea I wanted to bring to life. I’m naturally curious, and I like exploring how small observations can turn into better product experiences.

Bravely -- A Daily Health Companion for Cancer Patients
Denise Padernilla

Sondr -- A Self-Care Companion for the Mind and Soul
Denise Padernilla


Gale -- Healthcare Scheduling App
Denise Padernilla


Soln -- Personal Finance App
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