2019 Instagram Home Screen Buttons Layout: A Deep Dive into the 2019 Instagram Interface DesignElara SolsticeSep 05, 2025Table of ContentsTips 1:FAQTable of ContentsTips 1FAQFree Smart Home PlannerAI-Powered smart home design software 2025Home Design for FreeIn 2019, Instagram's home screen layout reflected the platform's ongoing evolution towards user-friendly navigation on mobile devices. At that time, the main navigation bar remained anchored at the bottom of the screen, featuring five primary buttons: Home (a house icon for the main feed), Search (a magnifying glass), Add (the plus symbol for creating a new post), Activity (heart icon for notifications), and Profile (user's avatar). Across the top, users found the Instagram logo on the left, followed by direct access to Instagram Stories—denoted by circular profile photos—and often featured a paper airplane icon on the right for direct messaging (DMs).As an interior designer, I observe app layouts much like I do spatial arrangements in a physical room. Each "furniture piece"—or in this case, button—must serve a clear function without causing visual confusion. This kind of intuitive interface, where key actions (like accessing your personal feed or sharing new content) are always just a tap away, informs my approach to layering functional zones in physical spaces. If you're looking to translate this user-centric design principle from digital to real life—for example, when conceptualizing your own home screen look for a smart home interface, or planning the zones in an open-plan living space—it can be helpful to use tools like a room planner to visualize functional layouts before execution.Tips 1:If you're inspired by how digital platforms like Instagram streamline user journeys, consider "zoning" your apartment or workspace similarly—positioning essential items for quick access while reducing visual clutter. Good design, whether on-screen or in a room, always prioritizes clear navigation and comfort.FAQQ: What were the main buttons on Instagram's home screen in 2019?A: The five core buttons were Home, Search, Add, Activity (Notifications), and Profile, typically located on the bottom nav bar.Q: Where was the Stories feature located on the 2019 Instagram home screen?A: Stories appeared in circular bubbles at the top of the home screen, making them easily accessible.Q: How did users access direct messages in the 2019 Instagram app?A: A paper airplane icon, located at the top right, led users directly to their DM inbox.Q: How does Instagram's button layout influence UI/UX in other design fields?A: Its user-centric navigation inspires spatial planners—including interior designers—to prioritize accessibility, clarity, and separation of functional zones.Q: Can I use similar "zoning" concepts in my home design?A: Absolutely—using clear, intuitive layouts for furniture and decor makes spaces more functional, similar to well-organized app interfaces.Home Design for FreePlease check with customer service before testing new feature.