# How to Wire DESIGN.md into Claude Code, Cursor, Kiro and Windsurf

> Source: <https://dev.to/promptmaster/how-to-wire-designmd-into-claude-code-cursor-kiro-and-windsurf-41p1>
> Published: 2026-06-28 07:54:52+00:00

**To make an agent use DESIGN.md, point its persistent-context mechanism at the file.** The pattern is the same everywhere: tell the agent to read DESIGN.md for UI work.

Reference DESIGN.md from your CLAUDE.md:

```
# In CLAUDE.md

## Design
This project has a DESIGN.md defining the visual identity.
Before generating or modifying any UI, read DESIGN.md and
follow its tokens and rationale. Use the accent color only
as the rationale specifies.
```

Use a rules file to inject DESIGN.md into every UI generation, so the design context is present whenever the agent produces interface code.

``` php
# Kiro     -> add DESIGN.md to the steering directory
# Windsurf -> point the global rules file at DESIGN.md
```

Every agent has a persistent-context mechanism; you route it to your design file.

Ask the agent to generate a component and inspect the result:

The first generation usually reveals a gap in your prose. Fill it, and the fix is permanent.

Because DESIGN.md is an open format, the same file serves Claude Code, Cursor, Kiro and Windsurf at once - one design source of truth, no per-tool drift.

**Where do DESIGN.md files come from?** Write one by hand, generate a draft with an agent, or export from Google Stitch.

**Does it work across tools?** Yes - one file, read by each tool's own mechanism.

Wiring in DESIGN.md is always the same move: tell the agent's context mechanism to read the design file for UI work.

**Free starter:** The format, a complete annotated example, and the core idea are on a free cheat sheet: [DESIGN.md Quick-Start Cheat Sheet](https://promptmasterstore.gumroad.com/l/design-md-cheat-sheet)

**Go deeper:** The full guide covers the entire format — the token schema, the CLI in depth, accessibility, Tailwind and DTCG export, agent integration, and a complete walkthrough: [DESIGN.md: The Complete Guide to Design Systems for AI Agents](https://promptmasterstore.gumroad.com/l/design-md-guide)

Which agent are you wiring DESIGN.md into first? Curious which tools people are using for UI work these days.