Robson Marques de Pontes

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Robson Marques de Pontes ("RMDP") 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?

RMDP : I was born in São Paulo, Brazil, and pursued a degree in product design. Later, I specialized in CAS and have been working in the car design industry for the past 20 years.

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

RMDP : I honestly believe it couldn't have worked any other way. I was the type of kid who loved drawing during math classes, taking things apart to see how they worked, and racing my bicycle back home.

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

RMDP : I explored different fields before design. I studied engineering, but since I spent most of my math classes drawing, it didn't quite work out. Then I tried architecture. While I loved working with the human scale, I found it a bit too political for my taste and realized it wasn't the right fit for me.

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

RMDP : For the last 10 years, I have primarily been involved with premium and supercars. However, lately, I have been considering some shift towards yacht design.

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

RMDP : Well, I would not call myself that, but my advice for those starting out would be to persist. The design world is a very competitive field.

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

RMDP : I have personally worked with a handful of great designers. They all have in common the ability to manage projects and collaborate effectively with their teams. They have a comprehensive, 360-degree view of the entire project and are always target-oriented.

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

RMDP : Good design must possess at least one of three qualities: timelessness, the ability to meet a need, or strong emotional appeal. When a design embodies all three qualities, I consider it truly great design.

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

RMDP : Good design enhances user experience, boosts functionality, and creates a positive impression, ultimately leading to increased satisfaction, efficiency, and success. Investing in good design ensures better usability, higher engagement, and long-term value.

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

RMDP : I would design an eco-friendly, classic car-inspired trimaran yacht that combines luxury with advanced propulsion systems. This yacht would provide a comfortable and efficient platform for marine exploration in high style.

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

RMDP : I dream a lot, but designing an eco-friendly trimaran yacht with advanced propulsion is something I would love to try.

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

RMDP : Empathy, understanding and prioritizing the user's needs and experiences ensures that every design decision enhances usability, satisfaction, and overall impact.

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

RMDP : I personally admire the old school where styling, engineering, and craftsmanship were seamlessly integrated. Legends like Marcello Gandini, Giorgetto Giugiaro, Ettore Bugatti, and Ferdinand Porsche exemplify this timeless approach to design.

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

RMDP : I am fascinated by the lines in a Porsche 911 and how the same design silloute still desirable after more than 60 years.

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

RMDP : I am fascinated by the lines of the Porsche 911 and how its silhouette remains desirable after more than 60 years, proving that true elegance endures.

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

RMDP : In my view, the best way to learn is by seeking knowledge from those who are already experts in the field.

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

RMDP : That's an excellent question which I never took the time to explore it in more detail