Figma has become the standard tool for UX and UI design, mainly because it’s cloud-based, easy for teams to collaborate on, and widely adopted by companies around the world. But it’s not without its problems. Since it relies on proprietary cloud storage, it can be expensive with ongoing subscription costs. Plus, some users worry about data privacy and control over their work.

These concerns have pushed some designers and organizations to look for alternatives that they can run on their own servers. One open-source option gaining attention is Penpot. It’s a free platform that aims to offer similar features to Figma but with the benefit of hosting everything locally. This means no reliance on third-party cloud services and more control over sensitive data.

Building a self-hosted Figma alternative isn’t new, but thanks to open-source tools like Penpot, it’s now more accessible than ever. The platform provides a way for teams to collaborate on designs without the subscription fees or privacy worries tied to proprietary solutions. It’s especially useful for companies that want full control over their design environment or need to comply with strict data regulations.

Here’s how it works: Penpot runs on your own servers, so you decide how and where it’s hosted. It offers real-time collaboration, vector design tools, and an interface similar to Figma’s—making it easier for teams to jump in without a steep learning curve. And because it’s open source, you can customize it if you have the technical know-how.

This shift towards self-hosted tools reflects a broader trend in the design industry—more people want control over their data and the flexibility to adapt tools to their needs. While Figma continues to dominate, open-source projects like Penpot show there’s a growing desire for alternatives that can provide the same level of collaboration and features without giving up privacy or wallet space.

For designers, this means having more options. If privacy or costs are a concern, a self-hosted solution like Penpot might be worth exploring. It’s not a perfect drop-in replacement for everyone, but it demonstrates that building your own design environment is becoming easier and more affordable.

In the end, the choice depends on what matters most—ease of use, costs, or privacy. But the big takeaway is that with tools like Penpot, more designers and teams can create their own design platforms tailored to their specific needs.

**Key Takeaway:** Building your own self-hosted design tool could give you more control and save money, especially if you’re concerned about privacy or data security. It’s worth considering open-source options like Penpot if you want to step away from proprietary solutions.