Maurício Coelho

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Maurício Coelho ("MC") 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?

MC : My relationship with design and the arts began early, practically during childhood. I grew up experiencing the behind-the-scenes of theater, where my mother performed, and accompanying my father in his graphic design studies, always drawing and creating. This creative environment deeply influenced me, and from a young age, I was encouraged to explore different forms of expression, such as arts, music, and sports, which were part of my routine for many years. In 2013, I started studying Architecture and Urbanism at Universidade Metodista Izabela Hendrix in Belo Horizonte. During my studies, I had my first encounter with 3D modeling and visualization, and I quickly fell in love with this field. This interest led me to self-study and seek specialization, marking the beginning of my professional journey. As a 3D artist, in 2018, I was invited by a fellow designer to develop three-dimensional versions of his products. This partnership, which lasted about a year and a half, was a unique opportunity to delve into the world of furniture design. During this period, I participated in all stages of the creative and production processes, providing me with a solid foundation of learning and experience. After this collaboration ended in 2020, I decided to focus on creating my own pieces. This work culminated in the launch of my first authorial collection, titled *Origem*, in 2022, in partnership with a Brazilian factory. It was a significant milestone in my career and a moment of great fulfillment. Currently, I continue to work in design and 3D modeling with the same enthusiasm I had when I started. I remain committed to professional growth and learning because I believe that continuous knowledge is essential to maintaining passion and quality in what I do.

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

MC : My motivation to design comes from my desire to be in constant creation and my drive to contribute to the world and to people. I became a designer because it gave me the opportunity to express myself through objects and creations that will one day be useful to others.

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

MC : I chose this field myself, which was unintentionally introduced to me through the Architecture and Urbanism course. I have always had the freedom to choose my professional path, and even today, I don’t feel bound to design. I choose it out of love and passion.

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

MC : Today, I primarily work in the furniture industry, with particular expertise in upholstered pieces such as sofas, armchairs, and chairs. However, my portfolio includes a wide range of products, such as dining tables, lighting and decorative objects, beds, and more. I don’t consider myself a designer confined to a single type of product, and I aspire to further expand my creative field in the future.

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

MC : They should not be afraid to show their creations to the world and must study design deeply, understanding everything from aesthetics to ergonomics. Knowledge of photography and presentation is equally important to be recognized as skilled professionals in the field.

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

MC : A great designer is someone who sees their creation as something meant to be useful and appreciated by the world, not merely as a form of self-expression. A good designer may create beautiful pieces, but without transcending common ground due to a lack of deeper meaning and purpose.

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

MC : True good design is one that fulfills its aesthetic function but, beyond that, positively and meaningfully impacts others.

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

MC : The value of good design lies in its ability to touch us on levels beyond the physical, reaching emotional depths. It resides in its usefulness while offering an opportunity to connect with the human spirit through desire and emotional memory. I believe everyone should invest in good design to feel connected to material goods through their senses, not merely for their functionality or economic value.

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

MC : I would love to design a collection for an Italian upholstery company, such as Minotti or Natuzzi.

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

MC : I dream of one day designing a furniture collection made from materials discarded by the industry, with the goal of offering affordable options to people with limited financial resources.

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

MC : I don't have a secret ingredient for success. However, I believe my unique strength lies in my ability to understand people's desires, allowing me to create designs that truly resonate with my target audience.

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

MC : I draw inspiration from many designers and artists, but two names are particularly dear to me: Jorge Zalszupin and Jader Almeida, both Brazilian architects and designers. Each of them has had and continues to have significant importance in different eras of Brazilian design, and their unique creations greatly inspire me to create.

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

MC : One of my favorite designs is the Cubo armchair by Jorge Zalszupin, developed in the late 1970s. It is a piece that masterfully balances straight and organic forms while offering exceptional ergonomics and comfort in its construction.

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

MC : I believe the Oco Armchair may be my most memorable creation to date. Its ability to harmoniously combine different geometries, while achieving a visually balanced design, makes it a product that captures the attention and desire of many. Moreover, it is a piece that is highly comfortable and ergonomic.

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

MC : I believe that to become a better designer, one must engage in continuous learning and study new technologies while staying attentive to the latest trends in the design world. At the same time, having a solid understanding of past creations and their respective creators is essential. I also emphasize the importance of gaining firsthand knowledge of construction aspects through hands-on experiences on the factory floor.

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

MC : If I weren’t a designer, I would certainly be fully dedicated to the field of 3D visual solutions. It’s an area I’ve worked in for many years and one I’m deeply passionate about, alongside design.

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

MC : For me, design in the context of products is the ability to harmoniously and effectively combine aesthetics and functionality, solving problems and bringing utility to people and the world.

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

MC : I can't name just one person. Many have helped me and been essential in my journey so far. From my parents, who provide me with unconditional support and encouragement, to my friends, colleagues, and partners I've worked with over the years. Everyone in my closest circle cheers for me, and I am profoundly grateful to them.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

MC : Many things have helped me become a good designer (though I believe I can still improve greatly), but I think my deep connection with spirituality is one of the most important tools in keeping me focused on my goals and on the challenging task of striving to be the best I can be every day.

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

MC : I faced many obstacles before becoming a master designer. However, I dare say that one of the most challenging was adapting to the timelines and limitations of the serial furniture industry. The entire process is slow and requires numerous adjustments along the way, including those that can be unpleasant for us as designers, such as project changes and adaptations we may not consider ideal. Understanding that conception and final execution are distinct stages—and that our ideas will not always result in what we initially envisioned—remains a challenge I still struggle with to some extent.

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

MC : As a 3D artist, I believe it is essential for a designer to present their products in a three-dimensional format, allowing for diverse representation. This approach enables the designer to go beyond the limits of the real and tangible, making their work more captivating and distinctive.

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

MC : My next project will be a collection of exclusively upholstered products. You can expect my utmost commitment to my work, resulting in highly refined creations and launches imbued with meaning and value.

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

MC : My ultimate goal is to enrich the world with products that make sense from a functional, aesthetic, and sustainable perspective. I aspire to be a reference in creating products that positively impact people's lives, whether they are clients or part of the production process.

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

MC : I believe people expect innovation and products that align with what they’ve seen in my work. However, I understand that these expectations may not always be met, as our identity evolves over time. What I can say is that people can always expect professionalism and deep care from me, both in what I create and for those who engage with my creations.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

MC : Through solutions that instill a sense of belonging and value in society, positively transforming social relationships and our connection with nature. Above all, these solutions should meet people's real needs in the most practical and effective way possible.

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

MC : I am currently developing a new upholstered furniture collection, and I feel very excited about the results I am achieving.

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

MC : Every project I have participated in so far has brought me great satisfaction, regardless of the results. After all, the knowledge I had the opportunity to gain from each project always makes the process worthwhile. In the end, I always come out better and more experienced than when I started.

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

MC : I would like to see, especially here in Brazil, greater encouragement for signature design and more recognition for professionals in this field, as well as a stronger commitment to the environment and its well-being. Additionally, I wish companies were more dedicated to innovation, producing fewer copies—a practice that is still all too common in the country.

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

MC : Toward a place more aligned with the concepts of sustainability and innovation. At least, that’s what I hope.

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

MC : "Each project has its own unique timeline for conception. Various factors influence this process, such as the complexity of the project, production or aesthetic limitations, specific project objectives, or even my own emotional state. I can say that some designs have taken as little as two days to conceive, while others have taken months."

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

MC : "I always start with a hand-drawn sketch. I don't consider myself a great draftsman, so as soon as I complete the sketch, I transfer it to a 3D modeling program, where I have more experience and greater ease in transforming and adjusting the product."

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

MC : My life motto as a designer is: "Every stage is unique, and all of them matter." For me, design goes far beyond the drawing itself—it's about the entire process, from conception to the customer’s experience with what has been created.

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

MC : I believe it’s a two-lane road. Trends are based on human needs and previous experiences with existing design. Consequently, new designs are shaped by these trends. Therefore, I think this is a cycle that constantly renews itself, with one naturally feeding the other.

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

MC : Technology plays an essential role in the conception of my designs, as I work with companies that rely heavily on technological resources. As such, I must always be mindful of the technological limitations involved in each project, allowing me to propose solutions that align with these constraints or take advantage of their potential. While many processes are and must remain artisanal, others are simply not feasible without the aid of technology, and this must always be considered during the design phase.

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

MC : Unlike some colleagues who still enjoy working with paper and pen, I am more inclined toward digital tools. I prefer sketching my initial ideas on my phone or tablet and then transferring those sketches to 3D modeling software. Therefore, I must always stay up-to-date with electronic devices, as these tools evolve very quickly. Although I’m not as connected to manual instruments, I occasionally enjoy sketching by hand or testing volumetrics using real objects.

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

MC : "They are as essential as any other tool used in design. After all, color, material, and environment are factors closely tied to the objectives behind a design project and, therefore, play a decisive and/or defining role in this context."

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

MC : I would love for people to take an interest in learning the full story behind my designs, from conception to the constructive aspects of each piece. After all, there are so many stages involved before reaching the final result...

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

MC : My first thought is about how it was made. I love learning about and understanding the constructive stages of things.

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

MC : I don’t think it’s possible to define what an ideal partner would be; however, some aspects are essential for me to work with someone, such as mutual respect and alignment of ideas and objectives. Not only do I believe in this, but I also hope to collaborate with some designer friends in the future.

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

MC : Many people around me have influenced my design. From fellow designers to family members, each, in their own way, inspires me to create something different or helps me become a better designer. However, I’d like to give special mention to a designer I worked with early in my journey, back when I was a 3D artist. He taught me a great deal about this world and was a significant source of inspiration for my first creations.

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

MC : Two books I’d like to mention, as they greatly helped me understand a bit of the history of this sector in Brazil, are: *"Modern Furniture in Brazil"* by Maria Cecília Loschiavo dos Santos and *"Furniture in Brazil: Origins of Production and Industrialization"* by M. Angélica Santi.

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

MC : I consider myself a self-taught individual. Even though I don’t have formal education in design, I was able to build a wealth of knowledge through independent study and hands-on factory floor experiences throughout my career. I believe that the constant pursuit of knowledge and references, along with valuing on-site experiences, has allowed me to grow into a master designer—even though this title feels a bit grandiose for what I’ve achieved so far.

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

MC : I find this question quite challenging because there are so many people I’d love to meet and talk to. However, considering that time and space are irrelevant here, it would be an immense pleasure to have a conversation with architect Lina Bo Bardi and designer Jorge Zalszupin, both of whom are no longer with us. I would love to gain insights into their creative processes and how they viewed design, even though some books and stories already provide glimpses of their perspectives.

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

MC : Titles, to me, are something very small compared to the power of change they allow us to generate. That is to say, I feel very happy to receive such recognition—it reassures me that my work is worthwhile and that I should keep going. However, more important than that is the ability to be useful in someone else’s life and to help the world through what I do. If I don’t receive any awards but my work is valuable to people and society, I’ll be deeply satisfied. As for the recognition I’ve achieved so far, I think the most challenging aspect is the weight of expectations placed on me—expectations that I may not always be able to meet. That’s the downside of being “famous.”

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

MC : My favorite color is white. My favorite place is my home. My favorite food is a dessert called "pudim de leite condensado" (condensed milk flan). My favorite season is winter (the winter in the region where I live isn’t very cold). My favorite thing is music. Lastly, I don’t have a favorite brand, but I greatly admire a Brazilian brand called Jader Almeida.

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

MC : "I remember a funny situation that happened on the day of the launch of the Origem collection. Champagne was being served to the guests, and since I'm very sensitive to alcoholic beverages, I decided to drink some to ease the tension of the moment. As a result, I ended up getting slightly tipsy. It didn’t affect me in any way, but we had a good laugh about it backstage."

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

MC : "A great day for me, as a designer, is when I manage to disconnect from everyday life problems and spend hours creating and developing a project without interruptions. I find a lot of motivation in being in touch with nature and exploring/researching the work of fellow designers."

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

MC : "I had no idea. I believe there has always been a desire within me to create and to be an artist, in whatever field it might be. But specifically becoming a designer, I could never have imagined."

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

MC : "Certainly, a thousand years from now, we will be a fairer society, where people judge each other less and where social inequality will no longer be a reality. I believe that in all this time, we will have the capacity, as humanity, to look at one another with more empathy and less selfishness. We will take pleasure in seeing ourselves as equally important in the construction of society, and differences will be widely respected and celebrated. At least, I hope and wish for it to be so."

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

MC : "I would like people to know that my work is neither better nor worse than anyone else's and that I approach it with a great deal of care and love. Not all stages of the process are enjoyable or glamorous. There is a lot of hard work and, at times, a great deal of struggle involved. Yet, these challenges are absolutely worth it for the ultimate goal of creating something meaningful. I am not perfect, nor do I strive to be, but I put in every effort to be the best designer I can."