Theresa Lambrecht

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Theresa Lambrecht ("TL") 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?

TL : I studied design and painting and work both as a designer for exclusive packaging and as an artist. My education has honed my skills and deepened my passion for combining aesthetics and functionality. To summarise, my background in art and design is based on a lifelong passion for creativity and a desire to use my skills to create positive change. Becoming a designer was not just a career choice, but the culmination of my love for art, my interest in functional design and my commitment to sustainability. I have a background in both design and art, with formal education in sustainable design and digital photomontage. My studies provided a strong foundation in blending functionality with aesthetics, and I continuously build on this through practical experience and ongoing learning in various design disciplines.

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

TL : What motivates me to design is the ability to solve problems creatively and make a positive impact on people's lives. I became a designer because I have always been passionate about art and aesthetics, and I wanted to combine this passion with functionality to create meaningful and beautiful solutions.

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

TL : I chose to become a designer because of my passion for creativity and problem-solving, and my desire to make a positive impact through functional and beautiful design solutions.

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

TL : I design a wide range of products, from packaging to digital art. I particularly wish to design more innovative and impactful packaging solutions that combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.

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

TL : Young designers should continuously hone their skills, stay curious and open to new ideas, seek inspiration from diverse sources, and never stop learning. They should also focus on building a strong portfolio, network with other professionals, and remain dedicated to their passion for design.

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

TL : A good designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions, while a great designer goes beyond this by innovating, pushing boundaries, and creating designs that have a lasting impact and resonate deeply with people.

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

TL : A really good design effectively solves a problem, is user-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing. I evaluate good design by considering its functionality, usability, aesthetic appeal, and the emotional response it evokes in users, as well as its sustainability and innovation.

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

TL : The value of good design lies in its ability to enhance user experience, solve problems efficiently, and create emotional connections. Investing in good design leads to increased user satisfaction, brand loyalty, and long-term success, making it a worthwhile investment for individuals and businesses alike.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

TL : If I had the time, I would design innovative and sustainable packaging solutions for eco-conscious brands, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal to reduce environmental impact and enhance user experience.

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

TL : My dream project is to create a space where art and design seamlessly merge, incorporating nature to enhance the experience and simply allow for boundless creativity.

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

TL : My secret recipe for success in design is a deep empathy for the user, combined with a relentless pursuit of innovation and a commitment to sustainability. My secret ingredient is the ability to blend functionality with aesthetic elegance, ensuring every design not only looks beautiful but also serves its purpose effectively.

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

TL : I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including art and architecture, but also from nature and everyday life. These influences help me to bring a fresh perspective to my designs by combining artistic principles with functional design to create unique and effective solutions.

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

TL : I appreciate Apple's designs for their minimalist aesthetic, precision, functionality, and visual appeal. Their ability to distill complex technology into simple, user-friendly interfaces encapsulated in sleek, elegant hardware exemplifies great design principles. These designs resonate with me because they combine form and function seamlessly, a core aspect of what I strive to achieve in my own work.

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

TL : My greatest design, the packaging for "Heartling Cosmetic Diamonds Cream," excels not only in aesthetics and functionality but also in quality. It features high-quality Italian textured cover paper, which adds a touch of luxury and tactile satisfaction. This choice of material not only enhances the product's appeal but also communicates its premium nature, making the packaging itself a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence and attention to detail.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

TL : To improve as designers, people can focus on continuous learning, embracing a range of experiences, and seeking feedback. Here are a few strategies that have helped me grow: Continuous Education: Stay updated with the latest design trends, tools, and technologies through courses, workshops, and reading. Diverse Experiences: Work on a variety of projects across different sectors to understand the breadth of design applications and challenges. Feedback and Critique: Regularly seek and constructively respond to feedback from peers, mentors, and users. This can sharpen your skills and refine your design approach. Collaboration: Collaborate with other designers and professionals in related fields to gain new perspectives and insights. Personal Projects: Engage in personal projects that push the boundaries of your creativity and allow you to experiment without constraints. Mindfulness and Observation: Develop a habit of observing the world around you, noticing details that could inspire solutions or spark creativity.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

TL : Artist and Designer. ;)

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

TL : For me, design is a mix of art and science - it's about creatively solving problems while improving aesthetics and functionality. Design isn't just about making things look good, it's about making them work better for the people who use them and ensuring that every creation is intuitive, accessible and effective.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

TL : My biggest supporters have been my mentors and peers in the design community, who provided invaluable guidance and feedback, along with the encouragement from family and friends. Equally important has been my own belief in myself, which has driven me to pursue and achieve my goals in design.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

TL : An open mind, curiosity, and creativity, along with a readiness to embrace people, places, and everything the world has to offer, have deeply influenced my work. These qualities allow me to absorb diverse influences and integrate them into my designs, enriching my approach and enabling me to create innovative, relevant, and engaging solutions.

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

TL : Before becoming a design master, I faced numerous obstacles including self-doubt about whether I was good enough, concerns about finding the right solutions, and the challenge of aligning my designs with the tastes and expectations of clients. These hurdles were compounded by the competitive nature of the design industry, requiring constant learning and adaptation to stay relevant and successful.

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

TL : Designers should present their work as part of a personal brand, which reflects their unique style, philosophy, and approach to design. This helps establish a distinctive identity in the market. A well-crafted personal brand should communicate a designer's values, showcase their best work, and highlight their design process, making their offerings clear to potential clients or collaborators. Effective presentation tools include a professional portfolio website, curated social media content, and engaging storytelling about their projects and design journey.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

TL : My next design project involves an art piece centered around the theme of moon phases, focusing on their graphical representation. In the future, you can expect from me more works that explore natural phenomena through a creative lens, combining artistic aesthetics with meaningful insights into the environment and our connection to it.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

TL : My ultimate goal as a designer is to fully realize my creative potential and to demonstrate the depth of my capabilities. I strive to create works that are not only innovative and impactful but also a true reflection of my inner vision and artistic voice.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

TL : People expect an esteemed designer like myself to deliver innovative, thoughtful, and aesthetically pleasing designs that effectively solve problems and enhance user experiences. They also anticipate professionalism, a strong ethical approach to design, and the ability to lead and inspire within the industry, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in design.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

TL : Design helps create a better society by addressing real-world problems with innovative solutions that improve everyday life. It enhances accessibility, promotes sustainability, and improves functionality in various environments. Good design also fosters inclusivity and engagement by considering the diverse needs of all community members, ultimately making spaces and products more usable and enjoyable for everyone. Through thoughtful design, we can encourage positive social change, reduce environmental impact, and elevate the quality of life for individuals and communities alike.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

TL : I'm currently working on a project that integrates advanced sustainable materials into everyday product designs. This initiative not only pushes the boundaries of eco-friendly design but also aims to set new industry standards for environmental responsibility. I'm especially excited about the potential for these designs to influence broader practices and inspire others in the field to prioritize sustainability in their creative processes.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

TL : In the coming years, I would like to see the design industry embrace a stronger commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. This includes using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and designing for longevity rather than disposability. Additionally, I hope to see more inclusivity in design processes, where diverse voices and perspectives are actively involved in shaping products and environments that cater to a broader range of needs and experiences. Finally, I believe there should be a greater integration of technology not just for innovation's sake but to genuinely enhance usability and accessibility in our daily lives.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

TL : The design field is likely headed towards a greater integration of sustainability and technology. As environmental concerns become more pressing, designers are increasingly focusing on eco-friendly materials and processes. Concurrently, the rise of digital technology, especially artificial intelligence and virtual reality, is transforming how designers work and how products are developed and experienced. This blend of sustainability and advanced technology will likely lead to smarter, more adaptable, and environmentally conscious designs that better serve both people and the planet.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

TL : The time it takes to finalize a design project can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the project, the specific requirements, and the iterative process involved. Some projects can be completed within a few weeks if they are straightforward, while more complex or extensive projects might take several months or even longer. Effective communication with clients, clear goal setting, and efficient workflow management are key factors that influence the project timeline.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

TL : When I have a new design project, I start with thorough research and understanding the project's objectives, target audience, and constraints. This involves gathering information, identifying user needs, and analyzing competitors. Following this, I brainstorm and sketch initial ideas, exploring various concepts and solutions before moving on to more detailed designs and prototypes. This foundational work ensures that the project is grounded in a solid understanding and sets the stage for a successful design process.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

TL : "Do what you feel. Trust your first intuition."

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

TL : I believe it's a dynamic interplay where both influence each other. Design can set trends by introducing innovative concepts and aesthetics that capture people's imagination and drive the industry forward. At the same time, existing trends often shape designs by reflecting the current cultural, technological, and social landscape. This reciprocal relationship ensures that design remains relevant, responsive, and continually evolving.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

TL : Technology plays a crucial role in my design process by providing the tools and resources necessary to bring ideas to life. It enables precision and efficiency in creating detailed designs and prototypes, facilitates collaboration and communication with clients and team members, and allows for the exploration of innovative solutions through advanced software and digital tools. Additionally, technology helps in staying updated with the latest trends and techniques, ensuring that my designs are modern and relevant.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

TL : Adobe Creative Cloud. Mostly InDesign, Photoshop.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

TL : Color, materials, and ambiance are crucial in design. Color influences mood and perception, materials affect functionality and user experience, and ambiance sets the context, enhancing overall engagement and aesthetic appeal. Together, they create a cohesive and immersive experience.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

TL : How did you come up with that idea?

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

TL : When I see a new great design or product, I first think about the innovation behind it, the problem it solves, and the creativity involved in its creation. I also consider how it achieves a balance between functionality and aesthetics, and what I can learn from it to apply to my own work.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

TL : My ideal design partner is cooperative, friendly, open-minded, and easy to work with, without too much ego. I strongly believe in co-design, as collaboration brings diverse perspectives and ideas, leading to more innovative and well-rounded solutions.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

TL : It's hard to pinpoint specific individuals, as my design is influenced by a variety of people, experiences, and conversations. Each interaction, whether with different people or through various encounters, contributes uniquely to my creative process.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

TL : Mostly photo and illustration books, magazins or other art books.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

TL : I developed my skills as a master designer through years of experience working in agencies and collaborating closely with clients. This hands-on experience has been invaluable in honing my abilities and understanding the diverse needs of different projects.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

TL : Irrespective of time and space, I would love to meet and discuss with Oliviero Toscani, the renowned photographer behind Benetton's iconic campaigns. His bold and provocative approach to visual storytelling would provide fascinating insights into the power of design and communication.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

TL : I haven't really thought about whether it's hard to be famous or not. I focus on the work itself rather than the accolades. However, I do feel happy and honored when I receive an award or recognition.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

TL : red, orange,, blue...natur, ocean...healthy food...all seasons, every season has something beautiful...apple, nike, patagonia, baletti ...

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

TL : sorry, I don´t remember.

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

TL : What makes my day great as a designer is seeing a project come together beautifully and knowing it will positively impact its users. I motivate myself by staying curious, seeking inspiration from diverse sources, and setting clear, achievable goals. Positive feedback and successful collaborations also keep my enthusiasm high and drive me to keep pushing the boundaries of creativity.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

TL : As a child, it wasn't immediately obvious that I would become a designer, but I always had a strong passion for drawing, creativity, and solving problems in unique ways. These early interests laid the foundation for my future career in design.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

TL : I hope that in a thousand years, humanity will have learned to live in harmony with nature, recognizing that we are an integral part of it and must protect it. I wish for a world without wars, where people no longer feel the need to harm one another. I envision a peaceful coexistence where people accept each other and believe in the collective good, rather than being divided by individual gods or religions.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

TL : I want my fans to know that my design philosophy is rooted in simplicity, functionality, and a deep respect for the natural world. I strive to create works that are not only visually appealing but also meaningful and sustainable. I'm always exploring new ideas and pushing boundaries, driven by a passion for creativity and innovation. Thank you for your support and for believing in the power of thoughtful design to make a positive impact on our world.