Building the Portfolio Site
A deep dive into the architecture and implementation of this portfolio site, showcasing modern web development practices, performance optimization, and thoughtful design decisions.
Technical Architecture
Frontend Framework
Built with Next.js 15 App Router for optimal performance and developer experience
Styling & Design
Modern CSS with Tailwind CSS and custom design system for consistent theming
Performance & UX
Optimized for speed with advanced animations and smooth interactions
Security & Best Practices
Enterprise-grade security headers and modern web development practices
Development Workflow
Modern development practices with automated testing and deployment
Content Management
Flexible content system with MDX support and automated notebook conversion
Development Philosophy
Component-First Architecture
Building reusable, composable components that scale with the application
- Modular component design with clear separation of concerns
- TypeScript interfaces for type safety and developer experience
- Consistent API patterns across all components
- Performance-optimized rendering with React best practices
Performance by Default
Every feature is designed with performance in mind from the start
- Lazy loading and code splitting for optimal bundle sizes
- Efficient animations that maintain 60fps performance
- Image optimization and responsive design patterns
- Accessibility-first approach with keyboard navigation support
Developer Experience
Tools and patterns that make development faster and more enjoyable
- Comprehensive TypeScript coverage for better IDE support
- Automated workflows for content management and deployment
- Clear documentation and component patterns
- Modern development tools and hot reloading
Performance Metrics
Real-time performance monitoring with automated optimization
Key Features & Innovations
Advanced Theme System
Matrix-based theming with professional and RPG modes, supporting both light and dark appearances.
Performance Monitoring
Real-time performance tracking with automated optimization and user experience monitoring.
Automated Content Pipeline
Jupyter notebook conversion to MDX with automated CI/CD pipeline and content management.
Security & Best Practices
Comprehensive security headers, CSP implementation, and modern web security practices.
Live Code Demos & Repositories
Explore the code behind my projects with interactive demos and detailed technical insights
Chicago Business Analytics
Live DemoA lightweight, free-to-run market radar for Chicago using open data (Business Licenses, Building Permits, CTA boardings). Features Socrata SODA/SoQL integration, pandas data transformation, Google Sheets automation, and Looker Studio connectivity.
Interactive Component Playground
Explore and interact with the actual components used throughout this site. See the code, customize props, and experience the component architecture firsthand.
Live Component
Component Code
import { Button } from '@/components/ui/button'
// Default button
<Button>Default Button</Button>
// Variant buttons
<Button variant="outline">Outline Button</Button>
<Button variant="secondary">Secondary Button</Button>
// Size variations
<Button size="sm">Small Button</Button>
<Button size="lg">Large Button</Button>These components demonstrate the modular, reusable architecture used throughout the site.
Technology Decision Log
Transparent documentation of technology choices, alternatives considered, and reasoning behind each decision. Understanding the "why" behind technical choices.
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Decision Philosophy
Ready to See More?
Explore the portfolio to see these development principles in action, or dive into the technical demos to experience the features firsthand.