Eda Elmaci

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Eda Elmaci ("EE") 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?

EE : "My design background goes back 8 years. Over this period, I've gained experience by working on various projects and developing my skills in the design world. My interest in design actually started before university, as I studied design for two years, which provided me with a strong foundation and helped me enhance my creative thinking abilities. With both my education and experience, I've continued to grow in the field of design and keep learning new things every day.

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

EE : What motivates me to design is the opportunity to add value to people's lives through aesthetics and functionality. Design has the power to create not just visual, but also emotional and experiential impact. My decision to become a designer stemmed from the desire to offer better living experiences to others through this process. Finding new solutions and thinking creatively with each project gives me constant satisfaction and growth.

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

EE : Becoming a designer was definitely my choice. From a young age, my interest in creativity and aesthetics led me toward this field. However, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. Like any creative process, there were times when I pushed my limits, struggled with decision-making, or faced difficulties in striving for improvement. Still, these challenges taught me a lot and helped me grow in the design world. In the end, being a designer became the path where I could follow my passion and express myself in the best way possible.

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

EE : Currently, I mainly work in graphic design and digital design. I work on projects such as visual identities for brands, web designs, mobile app interfaces, and digital campaigns. In the future, I’d like to focus more on creating user-centered designs and interactive experiences. With the advancement of technology, I'm also excited about working in innovative areas like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

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

EE : For young designers who aspire to become legends in the field, the key is to focus on continuous learning and self-improvement. Design is not just about technical skills; it’s also about creative thinking and problem-solving. Gaining experience in different areas and diversifying your portfolio by working on various projects is crucial. Seeking inspiration from others and working with a mentor can also accelerate growth. Being active on social media and in design communities allows for valuable interactions and learning. Lastly, young designers should not be afraid to take risks and develop their own unique style. Being innovative, bold, and original will set them apart and help build a distinctive design identity.

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

EE : A good designer offers technical skills and creative solutions, but a great designer goes beyond aesthetics and infuses emotion into their work. They create a deep connection with the user, turning the design into an experience by adding layers of feeling in every detail. A great designer not only provides innovative, unique, and effective solutions but also pours their soul into the project. They are open to feedback, always eager to grow, and passionate about reflecting their love for design in everything they create. What sets them apart is their ability to leave not just a visual, but an emotional mark with their designs.

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

EE : What truly makes a design great is not just its visual appeal, but also its functionality, usability, and emotional connection with the user. A good design serves its purpose, is simple and balanced, and is aesthetically pleasing. It doesn't just look good; it makes the user experience easier and more effective, creating a meaningful impact.

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

EE : Good design helps brands stand out, enhances user experience, and supports long-term success. By balancing aesthetics and functionality, it builds customer loyalty and trust. Everyone should invest in good design because it strengthens marketing strategies, sets you apart in a competitive market, and increases the sustainability of your business.

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

EE : If I had the time, I’d love to work on projects that bridge art and technology. Through digital art and interactive designs, I’d aim to make art more accessible and experiential for everyone. I’d focus on creating innovative designs for young artists and cultural projects. Additionally, designing projects that make learning more fun and interactive for students would be exciting, transforming the way they engage with knowledge. My goal would be for my designs to have both artistic and societal impact.

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

EE : The project I dream of but haven’t had the time to pursue would combine technology and art to create a deeply immersive experience. I’d love to design an interactive space using virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR), where participants can not only observe but fully engage with the design. The goal would be to turn art and emotion into an interactive experience, allowing participants to embark on a personal journey. I also envision this project having potential applications in fields like education and therapy, creating a meaningful impact in those areas as well.

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

EE : The secret recipe for success in design lies in blending creativity with empathy. A successful designer goes beyond aesthetics and truly understands the user, being sensitive to their needs and emotional states. I believe design must have its own character; each design should carry a unique personality and tell a story aligned with its purpose. My secret ingredient is bringing my own perspective to every project and a constant desire to learn. Since design is a problem-solving process, I ensure that it offers value to the user both visually and functionally. The key to success is finding the right balance, staying innovative, and leaving a personal touch in every project.

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

EE : One of the design masters I draw inspiration from is Massimo Vignelli. As one of the pioneers of modern design, Vignelli embraced a minimalist approach, leaving a significant mark in typography and graphic design. Studying his work has deepened my understanding of the power of design. His approach to minimalism, where every element serves a purpose, allows for a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality in design.

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

EE : Paul Rand - IBM Logo: Rand’s IBM logo is a perfect example of creating simplicity while establishing a strong brand identity. The use of simple yet powerful forms reflects the professionalism and reliability of the brand. Additionally, this logo has provided a perfect foundation for the brand’s evolving designs over time.

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

EE : I can't choose the best one, I love them all so much :)

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

EE : To become a better designer, continuous learning, practice, and feedback are essential. I focused on staying updated with new trends, expanded my knowledge through online courses, and interacted with designers from various fields. I applied what I learned in real projects and didn’t hesitate to experiment with personal projects. I also saw feedback as an opportunity for growth, using critiques to improve my designs. By diversifying my sources of inspiration, drawing from different cultures, art forms, and creative disciplines, I was able to develop more unique and effective solutions. This process has helped me grow into a more original and impactful designer.

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

EE : If I weren’t a designer, I’d likely work in a field that blends technology and creativity, perhaps as a software developer or digital artist. I might also consider a career in psychology, exploring human behavior and how people interact.

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

EE : Design is the process of finding a creative solution that serves a purpose. For me, design is not just about aesthetics, but creating an experience that carries character and emotion. Every design should connect with the user and evoke a feeling. Good design goes beyond visual appeal; it leaves a meaningful emotional impact and resonates in the user's world.

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

EE : My family and friends have been my biggest source of support in reaching these milestones. They’ve always believed in me, provided encouragement, and motivated me. With their constant support, I’ve found the drive to continually see myself as a better designer. Their belief in me gave me strength to overcome challenges and the courage to keep moving forward in my creative journey.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

EE : What has helped me become a great designer is the desire to explore my imagination without limits and turn my dreams into reality. Using my creativity to craft unique solutions and bringing my visions to life with every project has constantly motivated me.

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

EE : Before becoming a design expert, the challenges I faced were a lack of experience and limited knowledge of the industry. Starting out in the design world required developing both technical and creative skills. Finding my own style and voice also took time. Additionally, receiving feedback and learning to take criticism constructively was challenging at first. However, I overcame these obstacles by continuously working, learning, and drawing lessons from each experience.

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

EE : Designers should not only present the final product but also share the process behind it. Explaining the thought process and problem-solving journey adds value to the design. In addition to a visual presentation, it's important to clearly communicate the design's purpose and functionality.

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

EE : My upcoming projects will create brand-new experiences at the intersection of technology and art. Stay tuned, you won’t want to miss it!

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

EE : My ultimate goal as a designer is to make my name a brand, recognized and inspired by my designs. I aim to leave a lasting impact with my creative projects.

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

EE : People’s thoughts and expectations are constantly changing, so I update my designs accordingly! What’s trendy today could be tomorrow’s nostalgia...

DL: How does design help create a better society?

EE : Design helps create a better society by improving people's quality of life. Accessible, sustainable, and interactive designs address societal issues and foster stronger connections between people.

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

EE : What I'm working on right now is exciting and a bit confusing at the same time – it's one of those projects that feels like the design is already finished before even starting! But for now, I’ll keep it a little mysterious.

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

EE : The projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those where I was able to understand the needs and emotions of the users, and effectively communicate them visually. In graphic design, working on projects that strengthen a brand’s identity, convey a clear message, and visually engage the audience has been highly rewarding. Particularly, when a design makes the viewer think or establishes an emotional connection, it shows me the true power of design.

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

EE : In the coming years, I’d love to see more collaboration and interdisciplinary work in the design industry. It would be exciting to see professionals from different fields come together to create innovative projects.

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

EE : The design field will become more interactive and personalized, driven by rapidly advancing technologies like AI, augmented reality, and virtual reality. These technologies will reshape design processes, enabling deeper and more unique experiences. Sustainability and ethical design will also gain more importance, with designs not only focusing on aesthetics but also considering social and environmental responsibility. Overall, design will become more integrated into everyday life and more accessible to a wider audience.

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

EE : Our design projects are completed somewhere between the time it takes for a cup of coffee to cool and a season to change! Small tasks are a quick sip, while big projects brew with patience.

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

EE : When starting a new design project, I like to pour all the ideas in my head onto paper. Sometimes, it feels like I’m chasing inspiration, and other times, it’s chasing me! The key is always asking the right questions and searching for the most creative answers.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

EE : In design, everything is shaped by surprises from the world of imagination!" This emphasizes the endless discovery and innovation that creativity brings!

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

EE : I believe design sets the trends! As designers push the boundaries of imagination, new movements and trends emerge. However, trends do influence designs at times, but ultimately, original designs always pave the way for something new.

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

EE : When designing, technology is the magical tool that turns our imagination into reality. With innovative software and digital tools, we can shape our ideas quickly and make things that once seemed impossible, possible. Technology accelerates the creative process while allowing us to create more detailed and impactful designs.

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

EE : I use Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Blender. A tablet and a fast computer are always by my side.

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

EE : In design, color, materials, and ambiance play a crucial role in conveying emotions and messages effectively. Colors set the mood of a design, while materials add texture and visual depth. Ambiance brings these elements together to create an experience for the viewer. When combined, these three aspects enhance the impact of the design and establish a stronger connection.

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

EE : I’d love for people to ask, "What’s the story behind this design?" because every design has meaning and purpose, and this question helps to deepen the understanding of my creativity and process.

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

EE : When I see a new and great design or product, the first question that comes to mind is, "How can I make this even better?" Every perfect design becomes a source of inspiration and encourages me to come up with more creative and innovative ideas.

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

EE : My ideal design partner would be someone with a creative and innovative mindset, who is flexible and open-minded. I do believe in collaborative design because different perspectives and teamwork enrich the design process, leading to more impactful results.

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

EE : Among the people I interact with, clients and fellow designers have the greatest impact on my designs. Client feedback ensures the project aligns with its goals, while other designers bring fresh, innovative ideas to the process. These interactions help improve every aspect of the design.

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

EE : The book that had the greatest impact on my design is *"The Design of Everyday Things."* It emphasizes the importance of user-centered design and questioning the purpose of every detail. Reading it inspired me to make my designs more functional and user-friendly.

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

EE : To become a master designer, it took lots of trial, error, and of course, coffee! I learned something new from every mistake and got a little better with each project.

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

EE : If I could meet anyone, anywhere, anytime, I’d love to meet Einstein. I’d put aside the "E=mc²" formula and ask, "How would you design the most creative thing on Earth?" It would be such a fun conversation!

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

EE : All the awards and recognition I’ve received show the value of my work, but the greatest reward is actually how my work touches people’s lives. The essence of design remains the same: creating great work and adding value to people's lives.

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

EE : My favorite color is pink because it's vibrant and brings positive energy. As for a place, I prefer the seaside; the tranquility of nature helps me relax. When it comes to food, I love Italian cuisine, especially pizza! My favorite season is spring, when nature awakens, and everything feels fresh and alive. What I enjoy the most is being in a creative process, discovering new ideas through projects. As for brands, Apple always catches my attention with how they combine technology with aesthetics.

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

EE : As a designer, what makes my day amazing is having that "a-ha!" moment when I come up with a new idea. I motivate myself by setting small goals for each project and rewarding myself as I achieve them—maybe a coffee or a short break! To feed my creativity, sometimes I need a bit of silence, and other times, a little chaos.

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

EE : When I was little, I didn’t know I’d become a great designer, but every time I covered a wall with drawings, I’d say, "One day, my designs will be on these walls!" Of course, my mom would say, "Those walls will be cleaned up real soon!"

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

EE : I don't plan my future for such a long time, I stay in the moment and focus on my dream world.