Carlos Cabrera

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Carlos Cabrera ("CC") 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?

CC : From a very young age, I was involved in graffiti, painting. I was also fortunate to quickly connect with design tools such as Photoshop when I was just 11 years old. I studied several years of industrial design engineering, but then decided to focus my studies on a diploma at the European Institute of Design. This diploma was centered on art direction and new technologies. I was always interested in design as a form of expression and a way to leave my mark on each project.

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

CC : What motivates me to design is the ability to create something that has a tangible and positive impact on the world. I became a designer because I love the idea of taking an idea and turning it into something concrete and real.

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

CC : I chose to be a designer. I always had a natural interest in creativity and visual expression, so becoming a designer seemed like a natural path for me.

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

CC : I design a variety of things, from brand identities to animations and interactive experiences and AI projects.

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

CC : I believe that the most important thing for a young designer is to be passionate, work hard, and always be willing to learn. It's also important not to be afraid to take risks and experiment with new ideas and techniques.

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

CC : A good designer can create something aesthetically pleasing, but a great designer can create something that is not only beautiful, but also effectively fulfills its purpose and has a real impact on the world.

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

CC : A good design is one that achieves its purpose effectively. When judging a design, the first thing I consider is its purpose. Does it meet its goal? Does it effectively communicate its message? If the answer is yes, then I consider it a good desi

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

CC : The value of good design lies in its ability to solve problems, communicate messages, and make things more functional and enjoyable. Investing in good design can have a significant return on investment, both in terms of efficiency and brand image.

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

CC : If I had the time, I would love to design an immersive virtual reality experience that could help people understand and empathize with the experiences of others. I believe this could have a significant impact on how we relate to each other and the world around us.

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

CC : One of my dream projects is to create a large-scale interactive art installation that combines design, technology, and storytelling in an exciting way.

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

CC : I believe that the secret ingredient for success in design is passion. You have to love what you do, because design can be a laborious and challenging process. Passion is what drives you to overcome obstacles and to keep learning and growing as a designer.

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

CC : I draw inspiration from many designers and artists. Some of my favorites include Dieter Rams for his "less, but better" philosophy, Jony Ive for his attention to detail and minimalist approach, and Buck Studio for their ability to combine storytelling and design in an exciting way.

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

CC : I love Apple products designed by Jony Ive because they are the perfect combination of functionality and aesthetics. I also like the design of the Guggenheim Museum building in Bilbao designed by Frank Gehry because of its unique shape and how it integrates with the environment.

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

CC : One of my most significant designs is a project for Bang & Olufsen about headphones. What I think makes this design great is that it is very representative of the company's values and vision, and it has helped the company stand out in a competitive market.

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

CC : To improve as a designer, I believe it's important to always be learning and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. It's also important to practice and work on real projects to gain experience. I'm always looking for opportunities to learn and improve my skills.

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

CC : If I hadn't become a designer, I would probably have worked in something related to technology or architecture. I've always been fascinated by how technology can be used to create amazing experiences and how architecture can evoke emotions and thoughts.

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

CC : For me, design is a way to solve problems and surprise people. It's a combination of creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills used to create effective and appealing solutions.

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

CC : My biggest support has been my family and my wife. They have always supported me in my career and believed in my ability to succeed. I've also been lucky to work with incredible mentors and colleagues who have helped me grow as a designer.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

CC : I believe that what helped me become a great designer was my passion for design and my constant desire to learn and improve. It was also important the experience I have gained working on a variety of projects and with many different brands and types of clients.

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

CC : Before becoming a design master, I faced several obstacles. Some of them included a lack of opportunities to showcase my work, competition in the design industry, and honing my technical skills. I also had to overcome self-doubt and learn how to handle constructive criticism to continue growing as a designer.

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

CC : I believe designers should present their work in a clear and concise manner, highlighting the key aspects and the story behind each project. It's important to use a combination of visual images, written descriptions, and, if possible, live demonstrations or interactive prototypes. The presentation should be engaging and effectively convey the vision and message of the design.

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

CC : My next design project is a collaboration with a leading technology brand. I'm working on designing an interactive experience that combines virtual reality and physical elements. I hope this project breaks barriers in terms of narrative and technology, providing users with a unique immersive experience.

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

CC : My ultimate goal as a designer is to create a significant impact on society through design. I want to design innovative solutions that improve people's lives and address social and environmental challenges. I also aspire to inspire the next generation of designers and share my knowledge and experience to help drive the design industry forward.

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

CC : People expect an esteemed designer like me to deliver high-quality designs that are creative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. They also expect me to be innovative, stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, and be able to effectively solve problems. Additionally, they expect a level of professionalism and excellence in project delivery.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

CC : Design plays a crucial role in creating a better society. Design can enhance the functionality and accessibility of products and services, as well as promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, design can influence how people interact with one another and their environment, fostering inclusion, diversity, and equity. Ultimately, design has the power to improve quality of life and contribute to the progress of society as a whole.

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

CC : Currently, I am working on several projects that are connected to the trend of Artificial Intelligence and how this technology allows us to explore new creative horizons.

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

CC : The design projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those in which I had the opportunity to tackle creative challenges and achieve impactful results. I particularly enjoy projects that allow me to explore new ideas, experiment with innovative techniques, and push the boundaries of conventionality. Seeing how my design makes a difference in people's lives and how it is appreciated by the audience is extremely gratifying.

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

CC : I would like to see a greater focus on sustainability and social responsibility in the design industry. I believe it's important for designers to take responsibility for creating solutions that are environmentally friendly and address social challenges. Additionally, I would like to see greater diversity and inclusion in the field of design, so that different perspectives and experiences are reflected.

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

CC : I believe the design field is heading towards greater integration of technology and a stronger emphasis on user experience. We will see an increase in user-centered design, where functionality and accessibility will be prioritized. There will also be further exploration of possibilities in virtual and augmented reality, as well as artificial intelligence in design. Overall, design is becoming more interactive, personalized, and focused on the needs and desires of the user.

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

CC : The time it takes to finalize a design project can vary depending on its complexity and scope. Some projects may take weeks, while others may span several months. It's important to consider the established deadlines and available resources when planning and executing a design project.

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

CC : When I have a new design project, I start by researching and gathering relevant information. This includes understanding the client's needs and goals, analyzing the market and competition, and exploring trends and best practices in the design field. From there, I move into the conceptualization and idea development phase, followed by creating drafts and iterating until reaching the final design.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

CC : My life motto as a designer is "It's not about what happens, but what you do with what happens." I believe in the importance of sharing ideas, inspiring others, and fostering a collaborative environment. I think we all have a creative spark within us, and by sharing and nurturing that creativity, we can achieve amazing things together.

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

CC : I believe design and trends are intrinsically connected and influence each other. Design has the ability to set new trends and define what is considered innovative and appealing. At the same time, trends in culture, technology, and other fields influence the directions and approaches of design. It's a dynamic relationship where design can both shape and be shaped by trends.

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

CC : Technology plays a fundamental role in my design process. It allows me to explore new techniques, create more complex and precise designs, and collaborate effectively with other professionals. Technology provides me with tools such as advanced design software, prototyping applications, and 3D visualization tools, which help me materialize my ideas and take my designs to the next level.

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

CC : I use a variety of design software in my work, such as Cinema 4D, After Effects. I also use prototyping applications and 3D visualization tools to bring my designs to life. As for equipment, I typically work with a high-performance computer and a graphics tablet. In the studio, we have a 3D printer that we sometimes use to print models that appear in our videos.

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

CC : Color, materials, and ambiance play a crucial role in design as they can evoke emotions, convey messages, and create a sensory experience. Color can influence mood and perception in a design, while materials can add texture, durability, and aesthetics. Ambiance, such as lighting and physical environment, can complement and enhance a design, creating a suitable atmosphere.

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

CC : I would like people to ask about the process behind my design, the ideas and concepts that inspired it, and how I tackled specific project challenges. I would also like them to inquire about the emotions or messages I aim to convey through my designs and how design impacts people's lives.

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

CC : When I see a new great design or product, my mind is filled with admiration and curiosity. I marvel at the creativity and innovation behind the design, and it inspires me to push the boundaries in my own work. I also reflect on the technical details and design decisions that made that impressive outcome possible.

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

CC : My ideal design partner is someone with a similar mindset toward creativity and innovation. I strongly believe in collaborative design as the combination of different perspectives and skills can result in more comprehensive and enriching solutions. I enjoy working as a team where each member brings their expertise and contributes collaboratively to the design process.

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

CC : I am fortunate to be surrounded by incredibly talented individuals in the studio from whom I learn a great deal every day. Their expertise, insights, and collaborative approach have had a significant influence on my design.

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

CC : I'm not an avid reader, but some of the most influential books I have read include "The Design of Everyday Things" by Donald Norman, which helped me understand the importance of usability and user experience; "Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon, which inspired me to explore creativity and the art of drawing influences from various sources; and "The Black Swan" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, which has profoundly impacted my design thinking. It delves into the impact of highly improbable events and the role of uncertainty in shaping our world. This book has taught me to embrace ambiguity, think outside the box, and consider unconventional possibilities in my design process.

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

CC : I developed my skills as a master designer over the years through a combination of formal education, practical experience, and a continuous dedication to learning and improvement. I studied design in university, but a significant portion of my learning happened in the field, working on real projects and collaborating with other design professionals. I also attended conferences, workshops, and professional development courses to stay updated on the latest trends and skills in the design field.

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

CC : If I could meet someone regardless of time and space, I would love to have the opportunity to talk with Leonardo da Vinci. He was a true polymath, and I am fascinated by his multidisciplinary approach to art, science, and engineering. I would enjoy discussing his creative process, learning from his inquisitive mind, and receiving his guidance and inspiration as a designer.

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

CC : The awards and recognition are an honor for the studio and serve as validation that our work meets our own high standards. The great thing about being part of a team is that fame is not centered around one individual. Our brand, Kutuko, holds the prestige, and I am fortunate that the studio as a whole receives recognition.

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

CC : My favorite color is black because it evokes the absence that allows for creation. My favorite place is the mountains, specifically Galicia, where I find peace and a connection with nature. As for food, I greatly enjoy Japanese cuisine, especially sushi. My favorite season is spring when nature comes to life with vibrant flowers and colors. One of my favorite things is when I'm working and my children interrupt me to observe what I'm doing.

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

CC : I remember one time when I was presenting a project to a client, the person operating the computer had forgotten their glasses and couldn't see the screen clearly. They kept misaligning their actions with what I was explaining, leading to a rather surreal and comical situation.

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

CC : What makes my day great as a designer is having the opportunity to tackle creative challenges, work on interesting projects, and see how my designs have an impact on people. I am motivated by my passion for design and the desire to constantly improve. I seek inspiration from various sources such as nature, art, and technology, and I surround myself with a talented and collaborative team that pushes me to give my best.

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

CC : When I was a child, it wasn't obvious that I would become a great designer. However, I was always creative and had a inclination towards art and design. I loved drawing, building things with Lego, and experimenting with different materials. As I grew up, my passion for design developed and I knew that I wanted to dedicate my life to creating beautiful and functional things.

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

CC : The future is uncertain, but I believe that in a thousand years we will see extraordinary technological and scientific advancements. We could witness advancements in artificial intelligence, space exploration, medicine, and environmental sustainability. It is possible that society will have evolved in terms of values, equality, and global awareness. However, it is difficult to predict with precision what will happen, as the future is always influenced by multiple factors and unpredictable events.

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

CC : I would like to express my gratitude to the followers of our studio for their support and engagement over the years. I appreciate the visibility they bring to our work and the joy of being able to share it with them. Their enthusiasm and feedback are valuable to me and inspire me to continue pushing the boundaries of design. I am committed to creating meaningful and impactful designs that enhance people's lives and contribute to the world of design. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.