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Interview with Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr |
Home > Designer Interviews > Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr (MMS) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr by clicking here.
FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
MMS: I've always been into art and design since I was really young. When I was about 4 or 5, I remember opening up a broken desktop clock out of curiosity, and somehow it started working again. It was like magic! From then on, I was hooked on figuring out how things worked and expressing myself creatively. As I got older, I studied electronics at university, but my love for art and design never faded. After graduation, I got into the lighting market where I connected with artists, architects, and designers. I got to see some amazing lighting fixtures from Germany and Italy, which really inspired me. This experience helped me blend my technical background with my passion for design. Eventually, I started my own production in my country, building on what my dad had already started. It's been quite a journey, but I'm grateful for every step that led me here.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
MMS: At HOBO, we started out by buying lighting designs from other companies, then switched to buying from China. We liked their designs but wanted to put our own twist on them, so we asked the Chinese manufacturers to customize them to our liking. After a while, we decided to bring production closer to home. We used my father's factory and started making our designs ourselves. It was a big step for us, but it allowed us to have more control over the process. Now, we handle everything from designing to making and selling our products right here in our country. It's been a journey of learning and growth, and we're proud of what we've achieved. We're committed to keeping up the quality and staying true to our vision as we move forward.
FS: What is "design" for you?
MMS: Design is about creative problem-solving, marrying functionality with aesthetics to address challenges and enhance experiences. It involves understanding user needs and desires to craft meaningful solutions, whether it's designing user-friendly interfaces, sustainable products, or space layouts. A good design blends technical precision with artistic expression, ensuring effectiveness and beauty. Quality lighting is essential, setting the mood and ambiance of a space. By considering function, aesthetics, and user preferences, designers can create impactful solutions that strike the perfect balance between form and function, aesthetics, and technology.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MMS: I specialize in designing technical lights that double as decorative elements, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal to elevate the ambiance of a space.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
MMS: The IO model from OCCHIO is a stunning example of contemporary lighting design that combines elegance, functionality, and innovation. What sets the IO model apart is its modular design, which allows for customizable configurations to suit various lighting needs and architectural settings. Whether used as a pendant, wall-mounted, or ceiling-mounted fixture, the IO model offers versatility and flexibility in lighting design.
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
MMS: The first project I designed for a company was a package design for my products. I focused on creating designs that would enhance the product presentation and ensure practicality during transportation and display. For first lighting design, I worked on a cylinder-shaped light fixture that featured a screw-less installation design.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
MMS: My favorite material in design is aluminum. Its lightweight properties make it versatile for various applications, and the ability to anodize it opens up a wide range of possibilities for color and finish. Additionally, aluminum's suitability for machining processes allows for precise and intricate designs, offering flexibility and precision in manufacturing. In terms of technology, LED technology stands out to me as truly amazing. The integration of LEDs into lighting fixtures has revolutionized the industry, allowing designers to create lighting solutions with compact light sources. Integrated LEDs offer efficiency, longevity, and versatility, enabling designers to explore innovative and creative lighting designs while maintaining energy efficiency and sustainability.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
MMS: I feel most creative when I wake up early in the morning and know I have a busy day ahead with many tasks to accomplish. The pressure of a busy schedule seems to ignite my creativity, pushing me to think more innovatively and efficiently to tackle the day's challenges. Additionally, creativity sometimes strikes unexpectedly, often with a sense of humor inspired by nature. Whether it's observing the beauty of the natural world or finding humor in everyday situations, these moments of spontaneity often lead to some of my most creative ideas.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
MMS: In my design process, I prioritize functionality, aesthetics, sustainability, and innovation. Functionality is paramount, ensuring designs serve their purpose effectively and enhance usability, while aesthetics are carefully considered to create visually appealing designs. Sustainability and durability are key considerations, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact and ensuring longevity through eco-friendly materials and production methods. Innovation drives my creativity, as I constantly seek fresh ideas to push boundaries and challenge conventions, resulting in designs that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also unique and inspiring.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
MMS: When I design, the emotions I experience are deeply personal and intertwined with my creative process. My friends Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atieh Koochakmanesh play an integral role in my design journey, serving as trusted collaborators and sources of inspiration. There's an initial spark of excitement and anticipation as we embark on new projects together, fueled by the opportunity to exchange ideas and perspectives. As we immerse ourselves in the design process, I feel a sense of focus and determination, knowing that we are working towards a shared vision of excellence. At times, there's a surge of satisfaction and pride as our concepts take shape and evolve into tangible designs, a testament to our collective creativity and dedication. Yet, there are also moments of doubt and uncertainty, where challenges and setbacks test our resolve and push us to grow as designers. Through it all, Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atie Koochakmanesh, these emotional highs and lows are an integral part of our creative journey, shaping our perspectives and driving us to constantly strive for innovation and excellence in our work.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
MMS: When my designs are realized, I feel a rush of excitement and satisfaction. Seeing my ideas come to life fills me with pride and joy. It's a rewarding moment that motivates me to continue creating and pushing the boundaries of my creativity.
FS: What makes a design successful?
MMS: A design is successful to me when it resonates with people and is accepted by them. While functionality, aesthetics, and innovation are important, the ultimate measure of success is how well the design connects with its audience. When people embrace and appreciate a design, finding it useful, intuitive, and visually appealing, that's when I consider it truly successful.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
MMS: When it comes to judging a design, my approach is thorough and deliberate. I believe in giving each design the attention it deserves, beginning with a careful examination of its potential for growth. Even in its early stages, I look for signs of innovation and evolution, seeking out elements that demonstrate the designer's commitment to progress. Data analysis is a crucial step in my evaluation process. I dive deep into the details, poring over the data associated with the design to gain a comprehensive understanding of its scope and implications. This meticulous examination allows me to uncover insights and opportunities that may not be immediately apparent, informing my assessment and guiding my feedback. Presentation is another key consideration for me. I value designers who take the time to craft compelling presentations that effectively showcase their work. A well-prepared presentation not only highlights the strengths of the design but also provides valuable context and insight into the designer's thought process. I appreciate designers who use their presentation time wisely, focusing on the aspects of the design that they believe are most deserving of attention. In addition to visual elements, I pay close attention to the accompanying text. Clear and concise explanations help me understand the designer's intentions and reasoning behind their decisions. I look for designers who are able to articulate their ideas effectively, providing insight into their creative process and the thought behind their design choices. By taking a holistic approach to evaluation, considering both the visual aspects of the design and the narrative that accompanies it, I aim to provide meaningful feedback that helps designers grow and improve.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
MMS: I see designers as the architects of a better world. Their job isn't just about making things look good or work well; it's about making sure they're good for people and the planet. Designers have a big responsibility to think about how their creations affect everyone and everything around them. That means considering things like how to use less energy, make things that last longer, and are easy to use for everyone. They also need to keep improving their designs and share their ideas with others to inspire positive change. But it's not just about what they make; it's also about how they make it. Designers need to think about using materials that are good for the environment, treating people fairly, and making sure everyone can enjoy what they create. At the end of the day, being a designer is about more than just being creative. It's about making a positive impact on the world, one design at a time.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
MMS: I believe that the world will continue to be filled with countless designs, each offering its own unique contribution to our lives. As long as there are challenges to solve and beauty to create, there will always be a need for designers to work tirelessly on new designs. I look forward to witnessing the evolution of design and discovering inspiring creations every day.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
MMS: My design inspiration comes from a mix of nature's beauty, stories from art history, adventures in new places, and the everyday moments of life. Nature always surprises me with its colors, shapes, and patterns. Whether it's a flower petal or a mountain peak, there's always something to inspire my designs. Learning about famous artists and designers from the past is like going on a time-traveling adventure. Their ideas and creations show me new ways to think about design. Traveling to different places opens my eyes to new sights and sounds. From bustling cities to quiet countryside, each place has its own charm and inspiration. But inspiration isn't just about big adventures; it's also in the little things we do every day. Whether it's watching a sunset or chatting with friends, there's always something to spark my creativity. And when it comes to trying new things, I like to play around and see what happens. Mixing colors, trying different materials - it's all part of the fun of being creative. In the end, my inspiration comes from the world around me - from nature, history, travel, and everyday life. It's all about finding beauty and joy in the things we see and do.
FS: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
MMS: My design style is rooted in minimalism and technical precision, aiming to achieve high efficiency and quality of light while minimizing environmental impact. I prioritize sleek, understated aesthetics that seamlessly integrate with various spaces, focusing on functionality and user experience. By leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable practices, I strive to create lighting solutions that not only enhance ambiance but also promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
FS: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
MMS: Living in Iran, I draw inspiration from its rich cultural heritage, which often influences my designs. The intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and traditional craftsmanship of Iranian art and architecture inspire my aesthetic sensibilities. Incorporating elements of our cultural heritage into my designs adds a unique and distinctive touch, enriching the overall aesthetic appeal. However, there are challenges as well. Limited access to certain materials and resources can sometimes constrain design options, and navigating regulatory requirements may add complexity to the design process. Despite these challenges, I believe that living in Iran offers a unique perspective that enriches my designs and allows me to create meaningful and culturally resonant products.
FS: How do you work with companies?
MMS: I work for my company now, But I'm so flexible.
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
MMS: Know What You Want: Start by clearly defining your project goals and budget. Check Their Work: Look at the designer's past projects to see if their style matches what you're looking for. Ask Around: Get recommendations from others who have worked with designers before. Communicate Clearly: Make sure you're both on the same page about deadlines, revisions, and payment. Respect Their Expertise: Trust your designer's creative input and give feedback respectfully. Keep It Professional: Pay on time and be professional in all your interactions.
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
MMS: keeping calm, thinking ,painting , modeling
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
MMS: lighting, furniture, tiny element, computer, glasses
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
MMS: Every day is a new story, different from the last.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
MMS: See with clarity and diligence, and persist without weariness. These qualities will guide you far in your journey as a designer.
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
MMS: For me, being a designer is a realm of endless creativity, personal growth, and diverse opportunities. However, the subjectivity of design and the pressures of meeting expectations can sometimes pose challenges for others involved in the process.
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
MMS: In my view, there's no singular 'golden rule' in design. Instead, it's a dynamic and multifaceted field where principles can vary depending on context, audience, and objectives. Flexibility and adaptability are key, allowing for creative exploration and innovation without being bound by rigid rules.
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
MMS: Coffee, Pencil, Paper
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
MMS: In design, time management is key. I prioritize tasks, use time blocks, and leverage tools for efficiency. Collaborating with friends like Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atieh Koochakmanesh adds another layer of support, making the process smoother and more enjoyable.
FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
MMS: The design timeline for moderately complex objects typically ranges from 2 to 5 months, allowing for thorough research, ideation, prototyping, and refinement.
FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
MMS: how are you a designer? :)
FS: What was your most important job experience?
MMS: Lighting engineer and lighting designer
FS: Who are some of your clients?
MMS: Architects, interior and exterior designers and every one who like better life.
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
MMS: I enjoy high design work for its minimalistic elegance and the opportunity to create visually stunning and impactful experiences.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
MMS: Continuing to showcase my designs in awards and competitions.
FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
MMS: I have a good team: Seyedsajad Jalalsadat Atieh Koochakmanesh They are best designer
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
MMS: They are secret, I have some ideas
FS: How can people contact you?
MMS: Email: hobo.iran@gmail.com Whatsapp : +989125225145 Instagram: HOBOTEAM
FS: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
MMS: I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atieh Koochakmanesh, who are not only my best friends but also valuable team members. Their dedication and support have been instrumental in our collective success.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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