After more than 13 years working as a senior web developer, including three great years at The Type Founders, I’ve decided it’s time to go independent and start building for myself.
Here’s why I made the move.
The Last Three Years
I joined The Type Founders in 2023. It was a great run. I helped build font foundry websites, worked on typography tools, and all the bits that go into making type feel good on the web. I learned a lot, shipped great work for some of the best typographers in the world, and got to dig deep into a niche I actually care about.
But towards the end I started feeling that familiar pull. The kind you get when you’ve been executing someone else’s vision for long enough.
The Decision to Leave
I’ve always loved building things, but I wanted greater control over both the projects I pursued and how I built them. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to value autonomy, simplicity, and the freedom to say no to work that doesn’t genuinely excite me. So in May 2026 I wrapped things up at The Type Founders, said my goodbyes, and stepped away.
Starting Chestnut Software
I’ve now founded Chestnut Software — my independent software company, where I build practical SaaS tools and web applications.
The goal is simple: build practical SaaS tools that solve real problems I’ve faced myself. No unnecessary complexity just clean, useful software.
I want to focus on:
- Problems I’ve actually experienced in ecommerce, design as well as AI
- Privacy-first
- Clean and thoughtful interfaces
Early days, but I’m excited.
What’s Next
This site will be where I document the journey in public — the wins, the mistakes, the random ideas, and the lessons that come with building in the open.
I don’t have a grand master plan or funding. Just a strong desire to build things.
— Ian