Fabrizio Constanza

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Fabrizio Constanza ("FC") 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?

FC : My design journey is rooted in curiosity and a deep appreciation for both art and functionality. At the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, I began my training in art before earning my degree in Industrial Design from MSU Denver. Since then, I’ve sought to bridge the gap between visual and functional art, focusing on creating pieces that reflect the emotional and cultural layers of human existence.

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

FC : Design is a means to explore and express the emotions and stories that define us. I’m motivated by the potential of design to solve problems, challenge conventions, and leave a meaningful impact.

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

FC : Design has always been a part of who I am. It wasn’t a matter of choice; it was an inevitable path shaped by my interests and values.

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

FC : I design functional art, custom furniture, and conceptual art. Each work is inspired by the passage of time and the cultural heritage of the human spirit. I aim to embrace regenerative design, balance environmental considerations, and honor local craftsmanship.

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

FC : Focus on the essence of your work—design with intent, not for trends. Document your process and never compromise on quality. Success in design is often a result of persistence and authenticity.

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

FC : A good designer fulfills a need. A great designer challenges perceptions and creates a lasting emotional connection through their work.

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

FC : Exceptional design transcends its function, becoming a timeless piece that harmonizes with its context and resonates with its audience through time.

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

FC : Good design elevates everyday experiences and fosters a sense of connection. It’s not just about aesthetics or utility—it’s about creating something that endures and enhances life.

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

FC : I would focus on large-scale public art installations that celebrate cultural narratives, working with communities to bring their stories to life. I would also educate people to move away from fast fashion and back to appreciating the value of enduring objects.

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

FC : My dream project is to foster a global regenerative mentality through economic and design initiatives that merge art, functionality, and sustainability.

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

FC : Respect the process. Success comes from balancing intuition, meticulous craftsmanship, and an openness to learning from every experience.

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

FC : I admire those who integrate precision, innovation, and emotion into their work, such as Santiago Calatrava and Alexander Calder.

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

FC : I’m inspired by the elegance of Italian masters, the timeless designs of German designers, and architectural works that blend boldness with harmony.

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

FC : Every design I create reflects my philosophy and my clients. Each project is my favorite in its present stage, as they shape my current experiences, become anecdotes of the past, and provide feedback for the future.

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

FC : Developing as a designer requires humility and curiosity. Learn from failures, embrace new challenges, and always question how your work contributes to the bigger picture.

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

FC : I might have explored aviation or a similar field that combines technical precision with creative thinking.

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

FC : Design is the thoughtful transformation of ideas into tangible expressions that serve and inspire humanity.

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

FC : Family has been my anchor, providing unwavering support and understanding throughout my career.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

FC : The willingness to embrace challenges, learn from diverse experiences, and stay true to my vision.

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

FC : Navigating the tension between cultural expectations and my creative aspirations. Family has been my greatest source of support, keeping me passionate about design during tough times.

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

FC : Designers should present their work with clarity, intention, and honesty. Accompany your presentation with detailed documentation, including clear visuals, a well-defined cost breakdown, and a compelling narrative that communicates the value and impact of the design.

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

FC : In Spanish, we say: uno propone y Dios dispone—"I propose, and God disposes." I always have exciting projects in mind, but life often takes unexpected turns. That said, I aim to focus on creating work that challenges conventions and deepens my exploration of regenerative design.

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

FC : My ultimate goal is to create designs that endure—both physically and emotionally—while inspiring a shift toward a lifestyle that values quality, sustainability, and the well-being of the planet and humanity.

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

FC : People expect designs that are not only functional and visually captivating but also thoughtful, innovative, and rooted in cultural and emotional significance.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

FC : Design is a catalyst for change. It fosters connection, solves complex challenges, and inspires us to envision better futures. When driven by empathy and responsibility, design can profoundly influence how we live, interact, and care for our environment.

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

FC : I am currently immersed in commissioned projects that carry a strong regenerative influence, aiming to create designs that not only fulfill their immediate purpose but also contribute to long-term environmental and societal benefits. Additionally, I am exploring the integration of AI tools into the design process, researching their capabilities to enhance creativity, efficiency, and innovation. This combination of hands-on projects and forward-thinking exploration excites me as it aligns with my vision of pushing design boundaries while addressing pressing global challenges.

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

FC : Social projects have brought me the most satisfaction. There’s something incredibly rewarding about providing art and design that is accessible to everyone. The ability to enrich lives and make a meaningful impact within communities is a true privilege.

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

FC : I believe the design industry must adapt to each country’s specific culture, needs, and industries.I would love to see more flexible, context-driven design education. This will generate opportunities to shape solutions rooted in local contexts.

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

FC : I want to see design more integrated with business economics. This is the next logical step in ensuring that design has a direct impact on the future of business strategies and sustainability.

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

FC : On average, it takes me about three months to finalize a design project. This includes thorough research, ideation, prototyping, and refining the final product to ensure it aligns with both functional and aesthetic goals.

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

FC : I start by listening and observing. It’s crucial to understand the project’s context, the people involved, and the specific needs before I start forming ideas. Listening carefully allows me to approach each design with empathy and precision.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

FC : My life motto as a designer is to make a difference in the world. I believe design can be a powerful tool for creating lasting, positive change.

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

FC : In many ways, businesses set the trends, and design follows suit. However, the best designs often anticipate trends, pushing innovation that later defines what’s to come.

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

FC : Technology is an essential part of my toolkit, but it’s not the magic solution. It’s about achieving results, and technology provides the means to do so effectively and efficiently.

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

FC : I use a variety of tools depending on the project. My main software includes 3ds Max, AutoCAD, and Corel Draw. However, I also love to sketch and use traditional materials like bond paper, tracing paper, and even napkins to capture initial ideas.

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

FC : Color, materials, and ambiance are incredibly important in my projects. They evoke emotions, enhance functionality, and create a unique atmosphere. I choose each element deliberately to elevate the experience of the piece.

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

FC : I welcome any question about my design. The best part is when the answers spark curiosity and excitement in others, lighting up their eyes with new understanding.

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

FC : I often think, “I’m not alone after all.” There’s a sense of camaraderie and shared vision when encountering exceptional work, knowing that others share the same creative drive and passion for innovation.

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

FC : An ideal design partner is someone who values craftsmanship, embraces innovation, and understands the transformative power of design in people’s lives. Collaboration works best when there’s mutual respect, open communication, and a shared commitment to creating meaningful work.

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

FC : The client has the most influence on my design. Their vision, needs, and feedback shape the project and ensure that the final result resonates deeply with the intended audience.

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

FC : Books on business strategy and innovation have had the most impact. Understanding the intersection of design and business has allowed me to approach my work with a broader perspective on its role in society and the marketplace.

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

FC : Like any other skill, it’s all about training and practice. Constantly pushing my limits, learning from each project, and reflecting on my work have been key to growing as a designer.

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

FC : I would love to meet Winston Churchill.

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

FC : I’m truly honored by the jurors who’ve recognized my work. It keep me focused on the work.

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

FC : Colour: British Green Place; place: London;Food: Southwestern Mexican; Season: Winter; Thing: Sports; Brand: Porsche

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

FC : Design is fun in general, and the unexpected moments often lead to the best memories. From creating something out of the most unusual materials to seeing a sketch turn into reality, the journey is always full of surprises.

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

FC : Seeing the solution to a project clearly in my mind is what makes my day great. It’s that “aha” moment that drives me forward. I stay motivated by constantly challenging myself to solve bigger, more complex problems.

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

FC : Yes, it was clear from a young age. I was always tinkering, building, and perfecting my toys. My passion for creating and improving things was evident even then.

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

FC : A thousand years from now, I may not be physically here, but I believe my work will prevail. Or perhaps, humanity will have evolved beyond the need for material creations, and we’ll be remembered in different ways.

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

FC : I believe in the power of design to create positive change. My work reflects my commitment to sustainability, innovation, and emotional connection. I want my designs to inspire people and make a lasting impact on the world.