Design: Transforming Objects, Inspiring Change

Turkish Carpets: Scenes of Battles, Love, and Lasting Memories

As a child, crawling around the house, I vividly recall the presence of Turkish carpets. They held a special place in my memories, adorned with scenes of epic battles and captivating love stories. Even now, I can picture it—an animal fiercely resisting a soldier’s spear, frozen in time through my mom’s recently taken photographs. These carpets left an indelible mark on me, their stories embedded in the depths of my mind.

Among these remarkable objects, there was one that stood out—a towering piece of furniture adorned with creatures, gargoyles, and even nudity. As a young kid, it was pretty intimidating stuff, I must say. However, what I remember today is that objects have the power to tell stories. This realization instilled in me a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling, which has greatly influenced my work.

During my teenage years, like most adolescents, I craved the freedom to pursue my passions. And so, I combined my two greatest loves—skiing and windsurfing. These thrilling activities provided the perfect escape from the mundane weather of Switzerland. I crafted a unique hybrid by attaching a mast foot, footstraps, and metal fins to my skis, enabling me to glide at incredible speeds across frozen lakes. It was an exhilarating experience, albeit quite dangerous. It became evident to me then that I needed to pursue a path that allowed me to channel my creativity and passion.

This realization led me to design school in the early ’90s. However, it was the extraordinary happenings in Silicon Valley that truly captivated my attention. Witnessing the computer’s integration into our homes, I recognized the need for a transformation in design to align with this new era. Eager to be part of this exciting evolution, I landed a job at a consultancy.

In those meetings, managers would emphasize the importance of the projects, assigning them codenames often inspired by “Star Wars” characters like C3PO, Yoda, or Luke. Seizing the opportunity, I would raise my hand as a young designer at the back of the room, posing what may have seemed like foolish questions in hindsight. I wondered about the purpose of the Caps Lock key or the Num Lock key. Did people really use them? Did they truly want them in their homes? Little did I know that these managers were seeking designers to breathe life into the exterior, the skin, of their products, without altering the legacy systems within.

But being a colorist or stylist wasn’t the path I desired. It didn’t align with my aspirations. Then, a quote caught my attention: “advertising is the price companies pay for being unoriginal.” It struck a chord within me, prompting the decision to start my own venture. So, I packed my bags and headed to San Francisco, where I founded a small company called fuseproject. My aim was to work on meaningful projects, not limited to surface-level aesthetics but rather encompassing the entire human experience.

The initial projects were humble yet impactful, leveraging technology to introduce new ways of using everyday objects and discovering innovative functionalities. One of these projects was a watch we designed for Mini Cooper, the car company, featuring a display that seamlessly transitioned from horizontal to vertical. This allowed me to discreetly check the timer without bending my elbow. Another project involved designing a piece of furniture for an Italian manufacturer. The unique aspect was its ability to ship completely flat and transform into a coffee table or stool upon assembly. We also embarked on experimental endeavors, such as a shape-shifting light fixture for Swarovski. By drawing on a computer tablet, the entire fixture adjusted its shape, transitioning from a circle to a square or even a figure-eight.

One

Skiing and Windsurfing: The Thrilling Escapes of My Youth

As a teenager, seeking solace from the mundane Swiss weather, I found my refuge in the exhilarating pursuits of skiing and windsurfing. Combining my two greatest passions, I embarked on thrilling adventures that allowed me to momentarily escape the drabness of everyday life.

Picture this: I took my trusty skis and a windsurfing board, and with a mast foot, footstraps, and metal fins, I concocted a death-defying hybrid. Zooming across frozen lakes at breakneck speeds, it was a truly awe-inspiring experience. The danger was palpable, but the adrenaline rush made it all worthwhile.

Now, you may be wondering, how did I end up on this path? Well, the truth is, my daredevil escapades made me realize that design school was my destined destination. The need to channel my creativity and explore new possibilities became crystal clear in those moments of excitement and danger.

Embarking on this journey, I delved into the world of design in the early ’90s. It was an era of great transformation, particularly in Silicon Valley, where I found myself captivated by the growing presence of computers in our homes. The realization that these machines had to evolve in order to seamlessly integrate into our lives spurred me on.

I found my place in a consultancy, attending meetings where managers would speak passionately about their projects, giving them intriguing codenames inspired by “Star Wars.” It was during these sessions that I would raise my hand, a young designer at the back of the room, seeking answers to what seemed like simple questions. What was the purpose of the Caps Lock key? Did people truly use it? Did they even want it in their homes?

Little did I know that these managers weren’t interested in altering the legacy systems or transforming the interiors. They were looking for designers who could infuse their products with captivating aesthetics, breathing life into the external appearance. However, my aspirations went beyond being a mere colorist or stylist; I longed to make a more profound impact.

It was then that I stumbled upon a quote that touched deeply within me: “advertising is the price companies pay for being unoriginal.” Those words stirred a fire within, compelling me to embark on my own venture. Packing my bags, I ventured to the vibrant city of San Francisco, where I established fuseproject, a small company driven by the desire to work on meaningful projects that transcended superficial beauty.

The projects that followed were humble yet transformative. We leveraged technology to create objects that transformed their use and introduced innovative functionalities. Take, for example, the watch we designed for Mini Cooper, featuring a display that seamlessly transitioned from horizontal to vertical. This ingenious design allowed users like me to discreetly check the timer without contorting our arms.

But it wasn’t just about functionality. We also ventured into the realm of furniture design, creating a piece that shipped flat and magically transformed into a coffee table or stool upon assembly. And in our quest for experimentation, we pushed the boundaries further with a shape-shifting light fixture for Swarovski. By simply drawing on a computer tablet, the entire fixture adapted its shape, shifting from a circle to a square or even a mesmerizing figure-eight.

These projects not only showcased our creative prowess but also embodied a humanistic sense. As designers, we have the power to redefine our relationship with the world, whether through business endeavors or civic projects. By infusing our work with values like environmental consciousness, sustainability, and functionality, we can truly create designs that bring about a greater impact.

Looking back on my journey, I realize that skiing and windsurfing were not just thrilling escapes but pivotal moments that

Redefining Design: Moving Beyond Superficial Skins

Design is more than just a superficial layer of aesthetics. It has the power to shape our experiences, transform our interactions with the world, and evoke deep emotions within us. As a designer, I’ve always sought to go beyond the surface and delve into the essence of what truly makes a design meaningful.

During my early days in the design industry, I witnessed a fascinating shift taking place in the realm of technology. Silicon Valley was buzzing with excitement as computers started finding their way into our homes. It was a pivotal moment that compelled me to be part of this transformative era.

In my role as a young designer working in a consultancy, I discovered that many managers were reluctant to change the legacy systems within their products. They sought designers who could create visually appealing skins, without altering the fundamental workings of the technology. But I yearned for something more substantial. I didn’t want to be a mere colorist or stylist; I wanted to make a real impact.

It was during this time that I stumbled upon a quote that touched deeply with me: “advertising is the price companies pay for being unoriginal.” Those words struck a chord within my creative soul. They ignited a fire within me and inspired me to embark on my own design journey.

Founding my own company, fuseproject, became a platform for me to redefine design. I wanted to work on projects that went beyond surface-level beauty and hugged the entire human experience. I firmly believed that design should be more than just an aesthetic enhancement; it should encompass functionality, sustainability, and an innate understanding of our needs as users.

Through fuseproject, I had the opportunity to tackle projects that truly pushed the boundaries of design. One such project involved creating a watch for Mini Cooper, a car company known for its innovation and style. Our design featured a display that seamlessly switched from horizontal to vertical, allowing users to check the time discreetly, without the need for awkward arm movements.

But it wasn’t just about watches or car accessories. We delved into the realm of furniture design, exploring ways to make pieces that were not only visually appealing but also practical and versatile. One standout creation was a piece of furniture that could be shipped flat and easily transformed into a coffee table, a stool, or even something entirely unexpected. It was a testament to the power of design to shape our surroundings and adapt to our ever-changing needs.

Yet, our quest for innovation didn’t stop there. We ventured into more experimental territory, collaborating with Swarovski to create a shape-shifting light fixture. This mesmerizing piece of design allowed users to change its shape effortlessly, transitioning from a circle to a square or even a captivating figure-eight. It was a beautiful fusion of technology and aesthetics, demonstrating the endless possibilities when design hugs both form and function.

Through these projects and many others, I learned that as designers, we have the unique opportunity to shape not just products, but also the values and experiences they embody. By infusing our work with environmental consciousness, sustainability, and an understanding of human needs, we can create designs that not only captivate visually but also leave a lasting impact on the world.

Design is a powerful force, one that goes beyond the surface and transcends the boundaries of aesthetics. It is about creating a harmonious relationship between our work and the world around us. By hugging this holistic approach, we can redefine what design means, reshape industries, and ultimately contribute to a better, more meaningful future.

The Power of Storytelling: Objects that Tell Tales

Objects hold immense power. They have the ability to transport us to different worlds, evoke emotions, and tell captivating stories. As a designer, I have always been fascinated by the narratives embedded within everyday objects, and the profound influence they can have on our lives.

When I was a child, I vividly remember the Turkish carpets that adorned our home. They were not just mere floor coverings; they were gateways to a world of battles, love, and adventure. Scenes of warriors and soldiers fighting against all odds, entwined with tales of love and romance, captured my imagination. My mom’s recent photographs of these carpets brought back those cherished memories, reminding me of the lasting impact they had on me.

One particular object that left a lasting impression on my young mind was a towering piece of furniture. It was adorned with intricate details, featuring creatures, gargoyles, and even elements of nudity. As a little kid, it was a bit scary, but what struck me was the power of storytelling. Objects have the remarkable ability to convey stories, to transport us to different times and places. This realization ignited my passion for storytelling, which has become a guiding force in my work as a designer.

As I grew older, another influential aspect shaped my creative journey. Like any teenager, I yearned for freedom and the opportunity to pursue my passions. For me, those passions were skiing and windsurfing. These thrilling activities not only provided an escape from the drab weather of Switzerland but also served as catalysts for my creative expression.

In a moment of inspiration, I combined skiing and windsurfing, crafting a unique hybrid that allowed me to glide across frozen lakes with incredible speed. It was a death-defying adventure, exhilarating yet undeniably dangerous. This experience taught me an important lesson — the need to explore my creative potential and pursue a path that would harness my passions.

Design school beckoned, and I eagerly answered the call. It was the early ’90s, and I found myself drawn to the extraordinary happenings in Silicon Valley. The computer was becoming an integral part of our homes, and it needed to adapt to fit seamlessly into our lives. This realization fueled my determination to be at the forefront of this transformative wave.

During my time working for a consultancy, I discovered a fascinating aspect of the design process. Managers would enter meetings, emphasizing the importance of projects and assigning them codenames inspired by “Star Wars” characters. Inquisitive by nature, I would raise my hand and ask seemingly simple questions that pondered the necessity of certain keys on computer keyboards, such as Caps Lock and Num Lock. Little did I know that these inquiries would spark a revelation.

It became evident that the legacy systems were not to be changed. Instead, the managers sought designers who could create visually appealing exteriors, the “skins,” without altering the inner workings of the technology. This approach didn’t align with my aspirations. I yearned for more than surface-level aesthetics. I desired to make a genuine impact, to go beyond being a colorist or stylist.

This quest led me to establish my own company, fuseproject, in the vibrant city of San Francisco. I was determined to work on projects of significance, projects that would transform the entire human experience. It was not merely about designing pretty objects; it was about integrating functionality, purpose, and beauty into every creation.

Through fuseproject, I had the opportunity to embark on a variety of ventures. We explored the fusion of technology and everyday objects, finding new ways to enhance their functionality and introduce fresh perspectives. One of our notable projects was a watch designed for Mini Cooper, featuring a display that seamlessly transitioned from horizontal to vertical. This clever design allowed users

Hugging Change: Designing for the Computer Age

The world was changing rapidly, and the computer was becoming an integral part of our lives. It was an era of transformation, where the boundaries of technology were expanding, and new possibilities were emerging. As a designer, I was captivated by the need to adapt and design for this computer age.

In the early ’90s, I found myself drawn to the bustling hub of innovation known as Silicon Valley. It was there that I witnessed something extraordinary unfolding. Computers were no longer confined to offices or laboratories—they were making their way into our homes. This shift in technology compelled me to embark on a journey that would redefine my role as a designer.

During my time working for a consultancy, I discovered an intriguing phenomenon in the design world. Managers would enter meetings, emphasizing the importance of projects and assigning them codenames borrowed from the “Star Wars” universe. It was an interesting sight, to say the least. As a young designer, I seized the opportunity to ask questions, to probe deeper into the essence of these projects.

Looking back, some of my questions may have seemed simple or even naive. I remember inquiring about the purpose of keys like Caps Lock and Num Lock on computer keyboards. I was genuinely curious about their significance and whether people actually utilized them in their daily lives. Little did I know that these seemingly innocuous inquiries would shape my understanding of the design process.

What I discovered was that the managers sought designers who could create visually appealing exteriors, without necessarily altering the inner workings of the technology. The focus was on the “skins,” the external appearance, rather than transforming the legacy systems. This realization challenged my aspirations as a designer. I yearned for more than just surface-level aesthetics—I wanted to make a meaningful impact.

It was then that I stumbled upon a quote that struck a chord within me: “advertising is the price companies pay for being unoriginal.” Those words became a catalyst for change. Driven by a desire to make a difference, I made the decision to establish my own company, fuseproject.

San Francisco became my canvas—a place where I could push the boundaries of design and embark on projects that truly reflected the spirit of the computer age. I wanted to go beyond the conventional and create designs that seamlessly integrated with this new era of technology.

At fuseproject, we ventured into uncharted territories. We explored the fusion of technology with everyday objects, seeking to enhance functionality and introduce fresh perspectives. One notable project was a watch we designed for Mini Cooper, featuring a display that seamlessly transitioned from horizontal to vertical. This innovation allowed users to discreetly check the time without the need for awkward arm movements, blending style and practicality.

But our endeavors didn’t stop there. We delved into the realm of furniture design, discovering ways to make pieces that were not only visually appealing but also practical and versatile. One standout creation was a piece of furniture that could be shipped flat and effortlessly transformed into a coffee table, a stool, or even unexpected configurations. It was a testament to the adaptability and transformative power of design.

These projects taught me valuable lessons about hugging change and designing with purpose. In the computer age, design had to evolve alongside technology. It wasn’t merely about aesthetics; it was about creating meaningful experiences, harmoniously integrating design and functionality.

As designers, we have the unique opportunity to shape the relationship between technology and human interaction. By hugging change, pushing boundaries, and designing with intention, we can create a world where technology seamlessly integrates into our lives, enhancing our experiences and enabling us to navigate this ever-evolving digital landscape.

Creating Functional Art: Transforming Everyday Objects

Objects that surround us in our daily lives have the potential to be more than mere tools or decorations. They can transcend their basic functions and become works of art that enhance our experiences and bring beauty to the mundane. As a designer, I have always been captivated by the idea of transforming everyday objects into functional art pieces.

The power of design lies not only in aesthetics but also in the ability to merge form and function seamlessly. It is about creating objects that not only serve their intended purpose but also bring joy, inspiration, and a touch of magic to our lives. This realization has guided my creative journey, pushing me to explore new horizons and redefine the boundaries of design.

One of my notable projects was a collaboration with an Italian furniture manufacturer. We aimed to create a piece that was not only visually appealing but also versatile and practical. The result was a stunning piece of furniture that could be shipped flat and effortlessly transformed into a coffee table, a stool, or even other unexpected configurations. This fusion of design and functionality challenged the notion that furniture had to be static and limited in its use.

Another project that pushed the boundaries of design was a collaboration with Swarovski, the renowned crystal company. We set out to create a light fixture that not only lit up a space but also changed shape, adapting to the needs and desires of the user. By simply drawing on a computer tablet, the entire light fixture could transform from a circle to a square, or even a captivating figure-eight. It was a mesmerizing experience that allowed users to become co-creators of their own environment.

But the journey of creating functional art goes beyond aesthetics and innovation. It is also about considering the impact of our designs on the environment and society. Sustainability and environmental consciousness have become integral parts of the design process, guiding our choices and pushing us to create objects that are not only beautiful but also eco-friendly.

One remarkable project that embodied these values was the Leaf Lamp for Herman Miller. It was an intricate process that took over four years to complete, but the result was a unique experience of light. The lamp not only focused on aesthetics but also allowed the user to choose between a warm, glowing mood light and a bright work light. By a simple touch on the lamp’s base, one could adjust the brightness and coloration of the light, creating a personalized and immersive lighting experience.

Design has the power to elevate the ordinary, to transform everyday objects into functional art that enhances our lives. It is about more than just appearances; it is about creating objects that inspire, captivate, and improve our well-being. As designers, we have the privilege and responsibility to shape the world around us, to rethink the objects we interact with daily, and to create a harmonious blend of functionality, beauty, and sustainability.

By pushing the boundaries, hugging innovation, and infusing our designs with meaning, we can continue to redefine what is possible and contribute to a world where functional art improves our lives and sparks our imagination. Let us rethink the objects that surround us and create a future where beauty and purpose coexist in perfect harmony.

Lighting up Experiences: The Innovative Leaf Lamp

Light has the remarkable ability to transform a space, create ambiance, and influence our mood. As a designer, I have always been captivated by the interplay between light and our surroundings. It is this fascination that led me on a journey to create the innovative Leaf Lamp—a project that holds a special place in my heart.

The Leaf Lamp was a labor of love, a creative endeavor that spanned over four years. The goal was to design a lighting fixture that offered a unique and personalized experience—a departure from the ordinary. We sought to redefine how we interact with light and to create a design that would not only light up a room but also evoke emotions and enhance the atmosphere.

One of the key features of the Leaf Lamp was its ability to provide a spectrum of lighting options. We wanted users to have the freedom to choose between a warm, soothing glow for creating a cozy ambiance or a bright, focused light for productive work. To achieve this, we integrated a touch-sensitive base that allowed users to effortlessly adjust both the brightness and coloration of the light. A simple touch on one side of the base would control the brightness, while the other side controlled the coloration, giving users the power to tailor the lighting to their preferences and needs.

But designing the Leaf Lamp wasn’t just about aesthetics and functionality. We also placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. We wanted to create a product that not only provided an exceptional lighting experience but also minimized its impact on the environment. Through careful consideration and design choices, we were able to develop a lamp that maximized energy efficiency, ensuring that it would be a responsible and eco-conscious choice for consumers.

Bringing the Leaf Lamp to life was a collaborative effort. It required a seamless integration of design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise. We worked closely with the talented team at Herman Miller to ensure that every detail, from the sleek and organic form of the lamp to the innovative lighting technology, was meticulously crafted.

The culmination of our efforts resulted in a truly transformative lighting experience. The Leaf Lamp became more than just an object—it became a vessel for lighting up moments, creating a sense of ambiance, and enhancing the atmosphere of any space it adorned. Its sleek and modern design seamlessly blended with a range of interior styles, making it a versatile and timeless addition to any home or workspace.

Reflecting on the journey of creating the Leaf Lamp, I am reminded of the power of design to elevate our everyday experiences. It is a testament to the profound impact that thoughtful and innovative design can have on our lives, both functionally and emotionally. The Leaf Lamp shows the harmonious marriage of aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and user experience—a true embodiment of the values that drive my passion as a designer.

As we continue to explore new frontiers in design, let us hug the potential for creating transformative experiences through thoughtful and intentional design choices. May the Leaf Lamp inspire us to rethink the objects that surround us and to design with a deep understanding of the impact we can make on the world, one lit up experience at a time.

Design with Purpose: From Business to Civic Projects

Design is a powerful tool that goes beyond creating visually appealing products—it has the ability to shape our world and influence the way we live. As a designer, I’ve always believed in the importance of using my skills to create meaningful impact, not just in the realm of business but also in projects that contribute to the betterment of society. This shift from purely business-focused endeavors to civic projects has been a transformative and fulfilling journey.

While it’s widely acknowledged that designers bring value to businesses by enhancing user experiences and driving innovation, I believe that the true power of design lies in the values we imbue in our projects. These values can extend beyond aesthetics and function, encompassing environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and even strategies that drive positive change.

One of the projects that showed this philosophy was my collaboration with Jawbone, a company known for its humanistic technology. We set out to create a product that not only seamlessly integrated with the human body but also had a refined and aesthetically pleasing design. Jawbone devices, like a wearable health tracker, were designed to rest gently on the skin and utilize advanced technology to filter out environmental noise, enhancing the user’s experience. By combining cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design, we aimed to create a product that was not only functional but also a pleasure to wear.

But my passion for design with purpose extended beyond the realms of business. I was drawn to projects with a civic focus—endeavors that had the potential to create positive change in society. One such project was the New York City condom dispenser initiative. The goal was to design dispensers that would distribute free condoms across the city, promoting safe sex and reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections. We wanted the design to be approachable, friendly, and easily recognizable, so we crafted dispenser units with a friendly shape reminiscent of a fire hydrant. These units were strategically placed in various locations, from stores and bars to clinics and community centers, making safe sex more accessible to all.

The impact of design on civic projects goes beyond aesthetics and functionality—it has the power to start conversations, break down barriers, and challenge social stigmas. The New York City condom project was a testament to this. The dispensers became talking points, igniting discussions about sexual health, promoting awareness, and ultimately contributing to positive behavioral change.

Another project that embodied the essence of design with purpose was YWater—a collaboration with an individual passionate about creating a healthy, organic drink for children. The project aimed to replace high-sugar-content sodas with a healthier alternative. We designed a bottle that was not only symmetrical in every dimension but also connected to form different shapes, encouraging children to engage in creative play while promoting sustainability by reducing plastic waste. The bottle’s design and branding centered around the theme of curiosity, using the words “why” and “why not” to spark the imagination of young minds. It was a project that seamlessly merged design, functionality, and social impact, proving that design could be a catalyst for positive change.

Designing for civic projects requires a different approach and a deep understanding of the impact our work can have on society. It goes beyond aesthetics and business strategies—it requires us to consider the values we bring to the table and how they can shape the world around us. Whether it’s promoting sustainability, driving social change, or enhancing accessibility, designers have the opportunity to create a lasting and meaningful impact on our communities.

As I continue on this journey of design with purpose, I am constantly reminded of the immense responsibility we bear as designers. By harnessing our creativity, expertise, and passion, we can shape a future where design serves as a driving force for positive transformation. Let us strive to create not only beautiful and functional products but also projects that

Conclusion

Design is a powerful force that extends far beyond aesthetics and functionality. It has the potential to shape our experiences, influence behavior, and drive positive change in the world. Throughout my journey as a designer, I have witnessed the transformative impact of design with purpose—from creating functional art to designing for civic projects.

By infusing our designs with values such as sustainability, social responsibility, and innovation, we can create objects and experiences that transcend their basic functions. The Leaf Lamp, with its ability to adapt to different lighting needs, showcases the harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. Projects like the New York City condom dispensers and YWater bottles demonstrate how design can challenge social stigmas, promote awareness, and improve accessibility.

As designers, we have the privilege and responsibility to push the boundaries of what is possible, to rethink the objects that surround us, and to create a world where design serves as a catalyst for positive change. It is through thoughtful and intentional design choices that we can foster a deeper connection between our work and the world, whether it’s in the realm of business or civic projects.

Design with purpose is about more than just creating beautiful products—it’s about creating experiences that evoke emotions, solve problems, and contribute to a better future. By hugging innovation, sustainability, and social impact, we can redefine the role of design and shape a world where design is a force for good.

So let us continue to explore, to challenge conventions, and to infuse our designs with meaning and intention. Together, we can harness the power of design to create a more beautiful, sustainable, and inclusive world for all.