Diego Revollo

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Diego Revollo ("DR") 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?

DR : Since I was Young I was fascinated with everything that had to do with a house. I remember one time coming back from a trip, around 10 or 11 years old, I found the apartment I lived in with a fresh renovation, with new curtains, carpet and bedspread in my room. I remember how much it was enjoyable to see such change. A while later I remember that when I was around 16, 17 years old, we renovated the apartment again and I kept up with practically every decision and already had opinions and convictions of my own. Even though, at the age of 18 I never thought I could make a living out of it. Today I feel very comfortable and privileged for living my professional choice practically 24hrs a day.

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

DR : I believe I value most of all quality. What is good, what really has quality, usually resist better the passing of time. Therefore the timeless character of most of my projects that remain beautiful and current for a long period is a result of this way of thinking. I break away from what is mainstream, I am very careful with new material and with regard to what is news I have a peculiar filter. I think it’s important for the industry to always estimulate new incomings because it is healthy in the financial point of view. Although, throughout the years a lot of clients become friends and come back with new projects, which makes me very responsible with everything I specify. I am aware I deal with high values and great investments in my renovations therefore I can’t accept that the client embarks in products or services that don’t stand out for the quality and that don’t withstand well the passing of time.

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

DR : The future is always with the younger generations, not only in architecture but in all areas. The impulse and passion of a young mind that learns his true vocation will always be more intense than someone who has already reached maturity. However, in my area, the consecration ends up coming more ahead. In youth we build our names and in maturity, with the trust of our clients and support of everyone, we are finally able to implement with restrictions our best ideas.

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

DR : I value above all beauty and have, as main virtues, the aesthetic rigorousness and pursuit of balance.

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

DR : I always say that the client and the limitations or characteristics of a place are the main guidelines of any project. This set is always the starting point and by respecting this premise the project advances in the right direction, that is to say, in the most favorable scenario. I always try to identify the client’s taste and try to only refine the edges of what is in excess or estimulate what he has that is unique and that I appreciate. I don’t like mediocre projects without personality that aren’t noticed or are predictable. I prefer to run the risks and I think that twist is found in never repeating myself and always being challenged by the different clients and unique wishes.

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

DR : Today I am no longer inspired by one architect in specific because I feel comfortable doing and following my personal taste. I have even tried to restrict the access to information to refine this essence of “my style” or personal taste. I believe that the more I am loyal to what I am the better the result in my work will be. Regardless, I admire very much the work of Philippe Stark and every time I travel I usually stay and experience his hotels and restaurants.

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

DR : The architecture I do is transformation. I like bringing beauty into people’s lives, making the space around me beautiful. This does me well and I believe that many of my clients also see my work this way.

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

DR : Like all architects I dream in designing my own house. This I haven’t accomplished yet but it is near.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

DR : Armani Casa – It is the label of the renowned italian brand Giorgio Armani for furniture and house accessories. I had the privilege of being chosen by them to design the first showroom in Brazil. I learned a lot with the level of demand of the Italians regarding technique and quality. To associate my name to such an internationally well-established brand that carries luxury and quality in its DNA that is Armani was one of the highest points in my career so far.

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

DR : I draw in Autocad

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

DR : My team is small especially IF we consider the workload we have and the repercussions of it. As my work is extremely customized and carries my signature I have a hard time growing and expanding. Everything that goes out of my office goes through me. Every drawing, every fabric sample, every object chosen. Everything goes through my hands. That makes me completely responsible for our positive turnouts but also for our mistakes.

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

DR : Since I was Young I was fascinated with everything that had to do with a house. I remember one time coming back from a trip, around 10 or 11 years old, I found the apartment I lived in with a fresh renovation, with new curtains, carpet and bedspread in my room. I remember how much it was enjoyable to see such change. A while later I remember that when I was around 16, 17 years old, we renovated the apartment again and I kept up with practically every decision and already had opinions and convictions of my own. Even though, at the age of 18 I never thought I could make a living out of it. Today I feel very comfortable and privileged for living my professional choice practically 24hrs a day.