Erik Christopher DeMelo

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Erik Christopher DeMelo ("ECD") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

ECD : I graduated from Rhode Island School of Design in 2006. Since then I have worked in biomedical, outdoor equipment, kitchen tool and gadgets and now the leather craft industry.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

ECD : I love making stuff.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

ECD : I chose to become a product designer.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

ECD : I design all kinds of products. But at the moment I do a lot of tools and machines for leather processing. I like making tools in general so I am pretty content doing what I am doing right now.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

ECD : Well first off I would not classify my self as a design legend. Nor do I really understand the drive to become one quite frankly. Just enjoy what you do and make things that have value that others can use to realize their goals as best as you can. Let God take care of the rest.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

ECD : The line between good and great is one of service. If your really seek to be a great designer than serve others well with your talents.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

ECD : Look at an Apple iPhone or Macbook Pro and you tell me. There is a perfect example of good design.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

ECD : Good design means you need or want less because it ultimately satisfies. That is the value of it and why it's worth the investment.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

ECD : It would be fun to make a totally custom bicycle from scratch.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

ECD : Making something I would want to buy and use. I am a bit picky with my product choices.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

ECD : Deter Rams, Cecilie Manz, Jonathan Ive to name a few. The universal man Leonardo da Vinci, and men/women like him have always inspired me.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

ECD : I recently got a Beoplay A1 speaker which is a beautiful piece of hardware. Very clean, minimal aesthetic that is appropriated for its purpose.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

ECD : The Kwik Set handpress is certainty climbing up the ranks quickly as my greatest design. I have created many kitchen based tools which work great. I personally enjoy using them and so do a lot people based on Amazon reviews and write ups. Those products I admit don't have the same presents this particular one does.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

ECD : By God's grace I grew up in a wonderful and supportive family who encouraged me to pursue my talents. I was fortunate to work with very talented people from a young age and had plentify of divine appointments along the way to help me get to where I am today. My wife is pretty amazing too. I would not have won this award without her.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

ECD : The design world is not too easy. In the beginning it takes time to find your strength and skill. As I gain experience, I begin to see the value I can bring to the team, company and my clients. Its very similar to the way you approach product design actually. Building self-confidence is both challenging and rewarding.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

ECD : You should always put your best foot forward. For example a clean professional and well thought out content for the intended audience is important. If you are not great at a certain aspect like graphic design, have someone give you suggestions and keep it simple. Make sure you can communicate your interest , ideas and processes well.