Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Eugenio Bini ("EB") 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.
EB : Graduated with honors in Engineering and Architecture from the University of Perugia with the experimental thesis “Perspectives of Urban Regeneration: Public Space and Traffic Calming Strategies” in 2014 and recognized as the best graduate student of the year, I qualify both as Architect and Engineer. After graduating, I joined the International Workshop “Lisbon Expo, towards Urban Mending” within the Master Degree Program “Remaking Landscapes” at UPC (Lisbon), where I learned from some of the most renowned architects like Gonçalo Byrne and Alvaro Siza. I have collaborated with a number of Italian and International architectural practices, including Carlo Ratti Associati where I contributed to high-profile designs like the Masterplan for Mutti Headquarters, a design-concept for Poste Italiane and Real Rio, an interactive installation for the 2016 Olympic Games sponsored by Cisco System. Lifelong learner, always interested in new challenges and opportunities I have also focused on product design and auto-production. My project “Figaro”, a hi-tech coffee table, garnered widespread exhibition and critical acclaim. In 2018 I developed “Box”, an innovative concept that will revolutionize the world-wide design of secondary substations on the next years by reducing their carbon footprint with a circular approach, maximizing the capacity to hold advanced digitalization technology and facilitating its ability to blend harmoniously into various settings whether they are urban, rural, modern or historical. As art director I support companies to define identities and strategies of communication, covering different design areas including advertising, branding, UI/UX, packaging. The ability to provide solutions for specific needs and adapt to different economic contexts has earned me significant trust and respect by the industry, including national and international companies such as Altromercato, Chicco, Clementoni, Enel, Inter, Mercedes Benz, Migross, Mutti, Municipality of Alcamo and Perugia, Pharmathek, Roner, Todis and SPAL, among others. Over the years my work has been also recognized with many awards and commendations. Besides professional achievements, I’m dedicated to teaching and research, contributing to the fields of communication, design, visual arts and urban planning.
EB : Since I was a child, I paid great attention to details, noticing things that most others ignored. I was fascinated by composition and how elements interacted within a space. Whether it was a graphic layout or a physical product, I always wondered in an unconscious way how it worked, what were the communication strategies involved and the design processes that made it possible. Over the years a teacher, to which I owe a lot, ignited my passion for the world of design. My academic journey further did the rest, providing me with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career in the design field.
EB : I always knew what my professional destiny would be and I was lucky enough to receive the support of my family.
EB : No one in particular. I love to face different design field and taking continuous leaps of scale. It's one of the most exciting aspects of being a designer. This allows me to explore always new ideas, pushing boundaries and discovering innovative solutions.
EB : There is no rule o recipe to become a good designer, it's always a personal path, but I can share some suggestions to young, up and coming designers: 1. Embrace continuous learning: stay curious and open to learning new skills, tools, and techniques; the design field is always evolving, so keeping up with trends and innovations is crucial. 2. Seek feedback: don't be afraid to share your work and ask for feedback; constructive criticism helps you grow and improve your designs. 3. Build a strong portfolio: create a diverse portfolio that showcases your best work; include a variety of projects to demonstrate your versatility and skills. 4. Network: connect with other designers, attend workshops, conferences, and join design communities; networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. 5. Focus on user experience: always prioritize the end-user; design with empathy and ensure your work is functional, intuitive, and user-friendly. 6. Develop your unique style: while learning from others is important, strive to develop your own voice and style; this will set you apart in the industry. 7. Be open to collaboration: work with other creatives and professionals; collaboration can lead to richer, more innovative designs and helps you learn from others. 8. Manage your time: learn to balance multiple projects and meet deadlines; effective time management is key to maintaining productivity and reducing stress. 9. Stay resilient: the design process often involves trial and error; don’t get discouraged by setbacks or criticism and use them as learning experiences. 10. Keep your passion alive: stay passionate about design; keep exploring, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of your creativity.
EB : The distinction between a good designer and a great designer often lies in several key qualities and approaches that elevate their work and impact. + Empathy: a good designer understands user needs, while a great designer deeply empathizes, creating emotionally resonant experiences. + Innovation: a good designer produce creative works; a great designer push boundaries, setting new trends. + Problem-Solving: a good designer solve issues; a great designers anticipate and solve complex problems innovatively. + Detail: a good designer focus on quality; a great designers obsess over every aspect of his/her work, from the tiniest detail to the overall user experience, ensuring a seamless and polished final product. + Holistic Thinking: a good designer focuses on the specific design task at hand, a great designer considers broader impacts and sustainability. + Communication: a good designer communicates ideas and works well within a team, a great designer inspire and lead. + Learning: a good designer stays updated with current trends and techniques, a great designer continuously learns and adapts ... he/she is always ahead of the curve, often driving innovation within their field. In summary, while a good designer delivers competent and reliable work, a great designer goes beyond this to create transformative and visionary designs. The ability to deeply empathize, innovate and think holistically, combined with exceptional attention to detail and communication skills, distinguishes a great designer from a good one.
EB : When judging a design, I first consider its functionality, how well it meets user needs and solves problems. Next, I assess aesthetics, ensuring it’s visually appealing and harmonious. I also evaluate innovation, attention to detail and how effectively it communicates the intended message or purpose. These aspects collectively determine the design's success.
EB : Good design enhances user experience, making products intuitive and enjoyable and improves accessibility for all users. It also reinforce brand identity, fostering recognition and trust, while driving higher conversion rates. It offers a competitive edge and creates emotional connections, positively influencing user perception. Investing in good design saves costs long-term by avoiding redesigns. Overall, good design is crucial for success and growth. As Dr. Ralf Speth said ... "if you think good design is expensive, you should look at the cost of bad design.".
EB : If I had the time, I would design sustainable community housing for low-income families. This project would blend eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies to create affordable, comfortable living spaces. Imagine homes built with recycled materials, powered by solar panels and equipped with rainwater harvesting systems. These features would reduce utility costs and environmental impact. Additionally, common gardens and playgrounds would foster a sense of community and connection among residents. This design would not only provide quality housing but also promote environmental stewardship and social cohesion, demonstrating the profound impact of architecture on improving lives and communities.
EB : I'm working on a new shape of pasta in my spare time. I really like the idea of rethinking a food masterpiece from scratch to create a unique consumer experience which involve aesthetic, functional and gastronomical aspects of this product. I hope this dream come true sooner or later.
EB : My secret ingredient is empathy. Understanding the user's needs, emotions, and behaviors drives every design decision. This user-centric approach ensures that the design is not only visually appealing but also intuitive and meaningful. Empathy transforms a good design into an exceptional one, fostering deep connections and lasting impact.
EB : Several design masters and legends have profoundly influenced my work and the world of design in general, each bringing unique perspectives and innovations. Dieter Rams, for instance, has been a monumental influence with his "less but better" approach. His designs for Braun epitomize simplicity, functionality and minimalism. Rams' ten principles of good design serve as a timeless guide, reminding us that the essence of design lies in clarity and purpose. His belief that good design is environmentally friendly, durable and thorough down to the last detail, provides a blueprint for sustainable and thoughtful creation. Massimo Vignelli's work in graphic design and branding is another source of inspiration. Known for the New York City Subway map, Vignelli’s commitment to simplicity and modernism showcases how clarity and order can lead to powerful visual communication. His belief that "if you can design one thing, you can design everything" underscores the universality of good design principles. Steve Jobs, although not a designer by trade, had an extraordinary eye for design. His insistence on products that were both beautiful and functional led to the creation of some of the most iconic technology products. Jobs' vision for Apple products underscored the importance of design in enhancing user experience, proving that attention to detail and a commitment to excellence can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Architect Zaha Hadid's bold, futuristic designs broke conventional boundaries and introduced a new era of architectural expression. Her works, like the London Aquatics Centre, demonstrate how fluid forms and innovative use of technology can redefine space and structure. Hadid’s courage to push the limits and her visionary approach continue to inspire architects to embrace creativity and innovation.
EB : To quote all would not be enough a book. Maybe my TOP5 could be ... + Swiss Army Knife (Karl Elsener): this multifunctional tool is a brilliant example of compact, versatile design that’s both highly practical and iconic. + New York Subway Map (Massimo Vignelli): its clarity and simplicity make navigating complex information easy, highlighting the power of minimalist design. + Nest Thermostat (Tony Fadell and Matt Rogers): it combines smart technology with elegant design, making home temperature control intuitive and energy-efficient. + Helvetica Typeface (Max Miedinger): it's clean and versatile design has made it one of the most widely used and loved typefaces, showing the power of simplicity in typography. + Fallingwater (Frank Lloyd Wright): integrates architecture with nature harmoniously, exemplifying organic architecture. All these designs stand out with innovative approach, exceptional functionality and enduring appeal, showcasing the profound impact thoughtful design can have on everyday life and various industries.
EB : I would let the people talk about it. Nevertheless, I can be satisfied with what we have achieved with "Enel Box", an innovative project which is believed to revolutionize the world-wide design of secondary substations on the next years by reducing their carbon footprint with a circular approach, maximizing the capacity to hold advanced digitalization technology and facilitating its ability to blend harmoniously into various settings whether they are urban, rural, modern or historical. Or at least we hope.
EB : There are some rules I gave myself to improve as a designer and I think they can be a useful model to follow for every designer. + Start a continuous learning by staying updated with trends and taking relevant courses. + Engage in hands-on projects and experiment to refine your skills. + Seek feedback and be open to critique. + Understand your users deeply through research and testing, creating user-centric designs. + Think holistically, considering the broader impact of your designs. + Collaborate and communicate effectively with others. + Embrace change and always strive for improvement to advance in your design journey.
EB : I would likely have pursued a career in psychology. Psychology offers the great opportunity to delve into the human mind, exploring how thoughts, emotions, and experiences shape our lives. I mean, come to think of it, this aligns closely with the empathy and user-centric approach that also drives good design. Either way I was destined to get in touch with others trying to understand people needs.
EB : Design is the process of solving problems and creating meaningful experiences through thoughtful and intentional visual and functional elements. It blends creativity with practicality, shaping how we interact with the world and improving everyday life by making products, services and environments more intuitive, accessible and enjoyable. It’s all about understanding human needs, anticipating challenges and crafting solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also efficient and effective.
EB : Reaching this point in my design journey wouldn't have been possible without the support and guidance of several key individuals. My biggest supporter has been my mentors. Their wisdom, patience and encouragement have been invaluable. They provided critical feedback, inspired me with their own work and pushed me to think more deeply about my design choices. Additionally, my family has been a constant source of support, offering encouragement and understanding through the ups and downs. Their belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to pursue my passion. Lastly, my peers and colleagues have played a significant role. Collaborating with talented designers and receiving constructive feedback from them has helped me grow and refine my skills. Together, these supporters have been instrumental in helping me reach new heights in my design career.
EB : Passion and resilience.
EB : Over the years I had to overcome numerous challenges, such as developing and refining skills, finding a personal style and creating a strong portfolio. Networking, dealing with reliable partners and choosing good clients has been essential. Persistence, continuous learning and adaptability helped me to surmount obstacles and achieve excellence.
EB : I think there is no rules. Every project has its story and a good designer should tell it authentically, drawing a journey that explains the reasons for choices made, evokes emotions and convinces the audience. Is all that matters.
EB : My next design project is a tamper-proof closure system with an integrated biometric authentication that could be a game-changer to safeguard medications at home and limit their use exclusively to patients with a prescription. It will contribute to raise safety standards, improve therapeutic adherence and redefines the relationship between doctor and patient through the data sharing process. I hope future projects will continue to focus on enhancing everyday living through innovation and a user-centric designs that enhance usability, sustainability and smart connections.
EB : Designers have significant responsibilities towards society and the environment. As designers, is our duty to create inclusive, accessible and user-friendly designs that can improve quality of life. Ethically, we must promote sustainability, choosing eco-friendly materials and processes to minimize environmental impact. Ultimately, we should consider cultural sensitivity, ensuring designs respect and reflect diverse perspectives. By this way we can drive a truly positive change, fostering innovation that benefits both people and the planet.
EB : People have high expectations from an esteemed designer. They look for innovative solutions, expecting fresh ideas that push boundaries and offer practical answers to complex problems. The ability to bring unique, creative visions to life is a hallmark of a respected designer. High-quality work is non-negotiable. This means meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the design is flawless and consistently meeting high standards across all projects. Esteemed designers are known for their reliability and the consistent excellence of their work. User-centric design is another critical expectation. People expect a designer to deeply understand and empathize with end-users, creating intuitive and engaging experiences. The ability to design with the user in mind, ensuring ease of use and enhancing overall satisfaction, is crucial. Clear communication is essential. Clients and collaborators expect a designer to articulate their design choices and processes clearly. This includes being open to feedback and engaging in constructive dialogue with clients and team members to refine the design. Professionalism is a fundamental expectation. Esteemed designers are expected to be reliable, meeting deadlines and maintaining a professional behavior in all interactions. Adhering to ethical standards in design practices is also a key component of professionalism, ensuring integrity in our work. Innovation and vision are highly valued. People look to esteemed designers to stay ahead of industry trends and incorporate the latest technologies into their work. Proposing bold, forward-thinking concepts that inspire and set new benchmarks in the industry is a trait of a visionary designer. Lastly, a collaborative spirit is important. Esteemed designers are expected to work effectively with other designers, developers, and stakeholders. Esteemed designers often take on a mentorship role, guiding and inspiring less experienced designers, contributing to the growth and evolution of the design community. These expectations highlight the multifaceted role of a respected designer, balancing creativity, quality, user focus, communication, professionalism, innovation and collaboration to deliver impactful and memorable designs.
EB : Design enhances society by creating functional, aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly environments and products. It solves problems by improving accessibility, ensuring inclusivity and fostering innovation. Good design also promotes sustainability by encouraging eco-friendly practices and reducing waste.
EB : I'm currently working on an innovative e-learning platform designed to enhance remote education. This project excites me because it combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design to create an engaging and effective learning environment.
EB : I particularly enjoy working on user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, because it has a very direct and deep impact on users, stimulates problem-solving and creativity. Iterative testing and feedbacks provide opportunities for constant refinement and learning. Moreover digital products open the door to a cross-disciplinary collaboration, enhancing teamwork and broadening perspectives.
EB : I hope to see more and more diversity and inclusion, bringing in voices and perspectives from varied backgrounds. Enhanced accessibility standards should be prioritized, ensuring designs are usable by all. Finally I hope sustainable and eco-friendly design practices reach a greater emphasis, reducing environmental impact definitely.
EB : The design field is rapidly evolving thanks to the rise of brand-new technologies. AI, AR, VR and IoT are driving more and more personalized and immersive experiences. A really game changer for the human-centered design. Cross-disciplinary collaboration will be the key to handle this challenge leveraging diverse expertise and knowledge. Sustainability will be paramount, requiring a growing attention to eco-friendly materials and new processes that could promote a real circular economy. Mastering and embracing these changes will be a must for every designer.
EB : It varies widely depending on the complexity of the project. For a simple product, it might take a few weeks, including research, conceptualization, sketching, prototyping and finalizing the design. For more complex projects, such as buildings, interiors or digital products with intricate functionality, it can take several months or even longer. This timeline includes initial brainstorming, detailed design development, multiple iterations, user testing and final adjustments to ensure the design meets all requirements and standards.
EB : When starting a new design project, I follow a structured approach to ensure a comprehensive and thoughtful process. The first step is to thoroughly understand the project brief. This involves clarifying the objectives, target audience and key requirements. I engage with stakeholders to gather as much information as possible about their vision and goals. Next, I conduct an extensive research. This can includes market research to understand the industry landscape, competitor analysis to identify gaps and opportunities and user research to understand the needs and behaviors of the target audience. This phase helps me gather valuable insights that will lead the design process. Finally, I move into brainstorming and ideation. This involves generating a wide range of ideas and potential solutions. I often use sketching and mind mapping to explore different concepts and approaches. Collaboration with team members and stakeholders during this phase can spark creativity and innovation. From the pool of ideas, I select the most promising ones and develop them further. Once the concept is clear, I can start working on the detailed design. By following this structured approach, I ensure that each design project is user-centered and effectively addresses the project goals.
EB : "Look forward" and "Think out of the box".
EB : The relationship between design and trends is symbiotic; design both sets trends and is influenced by them. There is a continuous feedback loop where design innovations set new trends, and those trends, in turn, influence future designs. This dynamic interaction drives the evolution of the design industry. For instance, Apple’s minimalist design philosophy, led by Jony Ive, revolutionized product design and set new standards for technology aesthetics. At the same time, technological trends heavily influenced design over the years. The rise of AI, VR, and AR has opened new possibilities for interactive and immersive design experiences. What came first? The egg or the hen?
EB : Technology plays a crucial role in design process today, enhancing creativity, efficiency and innovation. Advanced design softwares enables detailed and precise execution, while new prototyping tools help me visualize design fast with very a little effort. Automation streamlines repetitive daily tasks and cloud-based platforms facilitate real-time collaboration with my colleagues. AR and VR offer increasingly immersive experiences and provide new application scenarios in different contexts, while analytics and user testing platforms provide useful insights for future improvements. In summary, technology enhances every stage of the design process, from ideation and prototyping to collaboration and final execution. It empowers me and many other designers to push the boundaries, improve efficiency and create more user-centric and sustainable designs.
EB : The ability to adapt to new tools, technologies, and trends is increasingly important in a fast-paced industry like this. As a designer involved on different kind of projects I must be flexible and open to learning new software and technologies daily.
EB : Color, materials and ambient elements play crucial roles in design, shaping aesthetics, functionality, and user experience. Colors evoke emotions, convey messages defining identity, influencing perception and mood. Materials impact the tactile experience, affect construction technology, durability and overall look, defining product quality and sustainability. Lighting, sound and spatial layout shape the environment. Together, these elements create cohesive and engaging experiences, resonating with users on multiple levels.
EB : I wish people would ask about the thought process and decisions behind my works. Questions like, "What inspired this design?" or "How did you approach solving the specific user needs?" could allow me to share the journey and rationale behind my choices and open a dialogue about the deeper aspects of design, including functionality, sustainability and the user-centered approach that drives my work. Understanding these elements highlights the value and intention behind each design.
EB : When I see a new great design or an original product, my first thought is often admiration for the creativity and innovation behind it. I think about the problem it addresses and how effectively it meets user needs. Then I meticulously analyze details, such as the choice of materials, color scheme, functional harmony and overall aesthetics. Lastly, I reflect on the process and challenges the designers might have faced and how they overcame them to create something remarkable.
EB : Yes, I firmly believe in co-design. Collaboration fosters creativity, make the process more challenging and helps refine concepts. It also creates a sense of shared ownership and inclusivity, enhancing the overall quality of the final product. Therefore, my ideal design partner is someone who brings a complementary skill set and a shared vision, yet offers different perspectives.
EB : Feedback from actual users has been invaluable. Conducting user testing sessions and observing how real people interact with my designs have provided insights that no amount of theoretical knowledge could offer. They have shaped my approach to creating more and more intuitive and accessible designs.
EB : Several books have had a profound impact on my design philosophy and approach. Among others: "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman; "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman; "Change by Design" by Tim Brown; "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products" by Nir Eyal. These books collectively have expanded my understanding of usability, human behavior, emotional design and innovative problem-solving, deeply influencing my design philosophy and practice.
EB : It's a journey of continuous learning, practice and adaptation. It began with formal education, where I gained foundational knowledge in design principles, art history and various design tools. However, the real growth came from hands-on experience.
EB : I would love to meet and discuss with Leonardo da Vinci. As a polymath man whose genius spanned art, science, engineering and anatomy, da Vinci's approach to creativity and problem-solving is profoundly inspiring. His ability to blend art and science and his relentless curiosity about the world, would offer invaluable insights about innovation and design. Discussing about his methods and how he approached his diverse body of work would be a great source of inspiration and could provide a unique perspective on how creativity can master different design fields.
EB : Receiving awards and recognition has been a rewarding experience. It validated the hard work, creativity and dedication I've put into my design career. These accolades are not only a testament to my efforts but also a reflection of the support and collaboration from my peers, mentors and clients. It's not a question of fame. It's all about motivation. Any designer knows well that every award is a stage which needs to be nurtured constantly to retain that which has been obtained and won with it in subsequent work.
EB : My favorite color is blue, as it evokes a sense of calm and elegance. My favorite place is Torgiano, a small village between Umbria's hills, where the beauty of nature and tranquility inspire me. When it comes to food, I love sushi for its delicate balance of flavors and artistry. Autumn is my favorite season, with its vibrant colors and crisp air that invigorate my senses. My favorite thing is my sketchbook, where I can freely express my ideas and creativity. As for brands, I admire Apple for its seamless integration of design and technology, creating products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
EB : One time, while working on a branding project for a pet store, the client brought her overly friendly dog to the meeting. The dog enthusiastically "approved" our designs by sniffing and nudging the mockups. At one point, the dog even walked away with one of the sketches, prompting a chase around the office. Despite the chaos, the client's joy and the dog's antics lightened the mood and made the session memorable. We ended up incorporating some playful elements inspired by the dog's personality into the final design, adding a unique touch to the brand.
EB : Solving a challenging design problem or coming up with a unique concept can be incredibly fulfilling. Observing how my designs improve users experience is amazing too. But there are many ups and downs in the designer's life. To stay motivated, I always set clear goals, seek inspiration, engage in continuous learning, connect with peers for feedback and obviously I take regular breaks. These simple rules keep my creativity flowing and my passion for design alive.
EB : Obviously not. As a child, there were certainly signs that pointed towards a future in design, though I wouldn't say it was obvious I would become neither a designer nor even a great designer. Today I still think I have so much to learn. This is my only thought. "Stay hungry, stay foolish."
EB : The design field is rapidly evolving thanks to the rise of brand-new technologies. AI, AR, VR and IoT are driving more and more personalized and immersive experiences. A really game changer for the human-centered design. Cross-disciplinary collaboration will be the key to handle this challenge leveraging diverse expertise and knowledge. Sustainability will be paramount, requiring a growing attention to eco-friendly materials and new processes that could promote a real circular economy. Mastering and embracing these changes will be a must for every designer.
EB : Inspired by Stefan Sagmeister, I've decided to take a year off in 2026. I'm sure it would be a beautiful way to recharge energies.
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