Ivan Kordonets

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Ivan Kordonets ("IK") 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?

IK : I’ve always had a passion for design, even before my formal education. From a young age, I questioned why things were built the way they were and how they could be improved. While initially pursuing a career in law, I started working as a designer during my studies. I am primarily self-taught, beginning at 15 with my first computer, and I completed design school along with many other courses. I constantly learn new things, like how to connect design, code, and AI.

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

IK : My motivation to design stems from a deep curiosity about how things work and a desire to improve them. I became a designer because I love solving problems creatively and enhancing user experiences. The ability to shape the world around me through design is both fulfilling and inspiring. I'm also very excited to use the latest produced equipment and technologies, which continually fuel my passion for innovation.

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

IK : Over 20 years ago, I initially pursued a career in law, inspired by my mother who was a lawyer. However, during my studies, I discovered a passion for design which began as a hobby and eventually became a full-time profession. Design quickly became my primary focus, leading me to transition away from law and commit myself entirely to the creative field.

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

IK : Throughout my career, I've designed a diverse range of products including glass furniture, office furniture, mirrors, aquariums, graphic design for print and advertising, outdoor advertisements, branding, and 3D designs. Concurrently, I've also worked as a photographer. Over the past decade, I've focused primarily on product design, particularly for SAAS products, where I integrate my skills in frontend development. I'm particularly eager to design more products that incorporate AI and big data technologies, as these fields offer exciting opportunities to innovate and create impactful solutions.

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

IK : To become a design legend, young designers should embrace the idea that design surrounds us in everyday life. If you feel you can improve something or solve a problem through design, go for it. Design is not just a profession but a mindset—a way to constantly seek improvements and innovations in the world around us. Embrace challenges, think creatively, and never stop learning. This passion and dedication will pave the way to becoming a design legend.

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

IK : The distinction between a good designer and a great designer often lies in their willingness to push beyond the norm. I believe it's about investing that extra 10% effort when others might give up. Passion for design and a keen intuition play crucial roles too. Great designers welcome constructive criticism; they see it as essential for refining their work. They're less afraid of critique because they know it leads to better outcomes. Overcoming challenges to discover innovative solutions is deeply satisfying—it's like finding a breakthrough that reaffirms their greatness. In many ways, it's a form of personal growth and fulfillment.

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

IK : Good design is effective and meets expectations, delivering functionality and usability that users appreciate. On the other hand, great design goes beyond expectations, seamlessly integrating into the user's experience to the point where its excellence is almost invisible. It not only meets but exceeds user needs, leaving a lasting positive impression without drawing attention to its mechanics. This subtle yet impactful quality is what distinguishes truly exceptional design.

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

IK : Good design is not just about aesthetics; it's about functionality, user experience, and overall satisfaction. Investing in good design pays off in numerous ways. It enhances usability, making products easier and more enjoyable to use. Good design can streamline processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs over time. It also builds brand identity and loyalty by creating memorable experiences for customers. Ultimately, investing in good design demonstrates a commitment to quality and innovation, setting businesses apart in competitive markets and ensuring long-term success.

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

IK : I constantly strive to find time for this, despite being extremely busy. I'm passionate about designing innovative products that integrate AI and big data, pushing the boundaries of user-centric design. I'm particularly interested in projects that not only solve problems but also innovate with new solutions and design patterns. My dedication to volunteering in design and development inspires my creativity, and I'm always eager to collaborate with startups and explore new ideas that can create a meaningful impact.

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

IK : My dream project, which I haven't yet had time to realize, involves creating a product that monitors health 24/7, analyzes data using AI, and provides alerts for both users and healthcare providers when necessary. I believe now is an opportune time to innovate in the medical domain, enhancing healthcare management and improving patient outcomes through advanced technology and design.

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

IK : My secret recipe for success in design revolves around staying motivated, setting clear goals, and striving for tangible results. Design isn't just a job for me; it's a passion that thrives on challenges. Overcoming obstacles not only brings me joy but also fuels my energy and motivation to continually innovate and create impactful designs.

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

IK : One of the design masters who profoundly inspires me is Dieter Rams. His minimalist and functional designs for Braun, guided by his "Ten Principles for Good Design," have greatly influenced my approach. Rams' emphasis on simplicity, innovation, and sustainability continues to shape how I perceive and create designs. Another figure I deeply admire is Steve Jobs. His visionary approach to blending technology with user-centric design has redefined industries, emphasizing the importance of innovation and understanding user needs. Jobs' philosophy underscores my belief in creating transformative products that anticipate and exceed user expectations.

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

IK : One of my favorite designs by other designers is the iPod by Apple, designed under Steve Jobs' leadership. Its seamless integration of technology and user experience revolutionized portable music players, making digital music accessible and enjoyable for millions. The iPod's iconic click wheel interface and minimalist design epitomize simplicity and functionality, traits I deeply admire in design. Another favorite is the Eames Lounge Chair, a timeless piece by Charles and Ray Eames. Its innovative use of materials and ergonomic design exemplify comfort and elegance, showcasing how design can blend aesthetics with practicality to create enduring classics.

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

IK : One of my greatest design achievements is InsightCat, a project focused on Observability and Monitoring. It challenged me to integrate intricate data insights into a user-friendly interface, enhancing operational visibility and decision-making. Overcoming technical complexities while prioritizing user needs was crucial to its success. InsightCat's recognition with an A' Design Award underscored its impact and innovation. Currently, I'm driven by new ventures in AI-driven healthcare solutions, aiming to revolutionize patient care through advanced technology and thoughtful design.

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

IK : Improving as a designer involves continuous learning and refinement. Personally, I've found that dedicating time to study emerging trends, experimenting with new technologies, and seeking diverse perspectives have been crucial. Embracing constructive criticism and learning from setbacks are also essential. Additionally, staying curious, collaborating with others, and actively participating in design communities have enriched my skills and broadened my creative horizons. Striving for excellence and maintaining a passion for innovation are key to evolving as a designer.

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

IK : If I hadn't pursued design, architecture would have been my natural choice. I'm fascinated by its blend of graphic design, deep engineering knowledge, and understanding of materials and space ergonomics. Architecture, like product design, involves crafting functional, aesthetically pleasing solutions that enhance everyday life. It's a field where creativity meets practicality, shaping environments that inspire and fulfill human needs—a parallel journey to the one I've embraced in product design.

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

IK : Design, for me, is the art and science of creating solutions that harmonize functionality, aesthetics, and usability. It's about thoughtful problem-solving, where every decision—from form to function—is intentional and serves a purpose. Design isn't just about making things look good; it's about enhancing experiences, simplifying complexity, and improving lives through innovation and creativity. It's a process that requires empathy, collaboration, and a deep understanding of human behavior and needs, ultimately aiming to make the world more intuitive, efficient, and beautiful.

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

IK : My journey in design has been buoyed by the unwavering support of my family, friends, and colleagues. Their encouragement, constructive feedback, and belief in my vision have been instrumental in my growth and success. Their support has not only motivated me during challenges but also enriched my perspective and fueled my determination to push boundaries and achieve new heights in design.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

IK : Constantly learning something new has been a cornerstone of my approach as a designer. This commitment to ongoing education fuels my curiosity for the latest technologies, understanding their inner workings, and questioning why they were developed in specific ways. It's this drive that inspires me to take on challenges, push boundaries in design, and responsibly innovate to solve complex problems effectively.

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

IK : Before becoming a design master, I faced significant obstacles, especially early in my career. One of the most challenging hurdles was learning to handle criticism. As a younger designer, I often felt attached to my designs and found it difficult when they were critiqued. Over time, I realized a crucial distinction: design isn't just about personal satisfaction but solving real problems for users and businesses. This shift in perspective was transformative, marking the difference between a novice and a seasoned designer. Today, I embrace constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve and refine my work, recognizing that it's essential for growth and innovation in design.

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

IK : Designers should present their work thoughtfully and strategically, considering both the context of their audience and the essence of the design itself. Presentations should begin with a clear introduction that sets the stage for what will be shown and why it matters. Visual aids such as sketches, prototypes, or digital renderings can effectively illustrate the design process and evolution. It's crucial to highlight key design decisions, emphasizing how they address specific challenges or opportunities. Presenters should articulate the design's impact on users, businesses, or society, demonstrating its value through concrete examples or data. Finally, designers should invite feedback and questions, fostering a dialogue that enriches understanding and encourages collaboration.

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

IK : My next design project focuses on developing a comprehensive health monitoring product that operates 24/7, integrating AI for data analysis and alerts. This project aims to revolutionize healthcare by improving management and patient outcomes through innovative technology and user-centered design. I'm driven by the opportunity to innovate in this critical domain, leveraging my expertise to create solutions that positively impact lives.

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

IK : My ultimate goal as a designer is to continue innovating and creating impactful designs that resonate globally. Over the years, I aspire to pioneer projects that not only push technological boundaries but also achieve a level of impact and recognition, contributing significantly to advancements in various industries and improving the lives of users worldwide.

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

IK : People expect an esteemed designer like myself to deliver solutions that effectively address both user needs and business objectives. They look for designs that are innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, solving real-world problems with creativity and efficiency. As a designer with extensive experience, I strive to exceed these expectations by consistently delivering high-quality, user-centric designs that drive positive outcomes for businesses and enhance user experiences.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

IK : Design plays a crucial role in creating a better society by improving safety, functionality, and efficiency in various aspects of life. For instance, well-designed roads and traffic signs reduce accidents and enhance traffic flow, ultimately saving lives. Interfaces designed for professionals such as doctors, pilots, and drivers ensure critical information is accessible and usable, leading to better decision-making and performance. By focusing on user needs and societal challenges, designers can innovate solutions that address complex problems, ultimately contributing to a safer, more efficient, and more inclusive society.

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

IK : Currently, I'm especially excited about developing a platform for cybersecurity that monitors company infrastructure. This project aims to enhance security measures by leveraging advanced technologies and proactive monitoring strategies, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.

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

IK : One of the design projects that gave me immense satisfaction was InsightCat, particularly because it posed a significant initial challenge. Working in the domain of Observability and Monitoring for DevOps and administrators required me to delve into a specialized area that was new to me. I had to acquire fundamental knowledge about this domain to effectively translate complex data insights into a user-friendly interface. Overcoming these challenges and successfully integrating innovative solutions into InsightCat brought me great satisfaction, as it not only expanded my skill set but also provided a valuable tool for enhancing operational visibility and decision-making in IT environments.

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

IK : In the coming years, I hope to see a shift in the design industry towards preserving creativity and reducing over-engineering. Currently, there's a trend where design is increasingly constrained by frameworks and rigid design systems. While these frameworks are beneficial for refining and scaling successful products, they can stifle creativity, especially in the early stages of a project. I believe it's crucial to allocate sufficient time for creative exploration and problem-solving before imposing constraints. Designers should not merely mimic programming in design tools; instead, they should leverage tools to enhance creativity and innovation. This approach fosters unique solutions that truly address user and business needs, ultimately leading to more impactful and meaningful designs.

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

IK : I believe the design field is heading towards greater integration with AI, where successful designers will increasingly be able to create both design and code with AI assistance. This convergence is gradually narrowing the gap between design and programming, enabling more seamless workflows and rapid prototyping. As AI technologies advance, designers will have unprecedented tools to enhance creativity, automate routine tasks, and deliver more personalized and efficient user experiences. This evolution promises to revolutionize how we approach design, making it more accessible, collaborative, and innovative than ever before.

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

IK : The timeline to finalize a design project can vary significantly depending on the complexity and scope of the project. For SAAS products, which involve continuous improvement and iteration, the process can be ongoing. Initially, designing a concept might take several weeks to months, including research, ideation, and prototyping. Testing with users and gathering feedback adds another layer of time, often involving multiple iterations to refine and optimize the design based on real-world usage. This iterative cycle continues indefinitely as new features are added, technologies evolve, and user needs change. Therefore, finalizing a design project in the context of SAAS products is more about continuous improvement rather than a definitive endpoint.

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

IK : When embarking on a new design project, my process begins with a thorough understanding of the problem at hand. This involves delving into the requirements, conducting competitive research to grasp industry standards and innovations, and engaging in interviews with potential or existing users to glean insights directly from those who will interact with the product. This foundational phase is crucial for setting a clear direction and ensuring that the design solutions I develop effectively address the needs and challenges identified during the initial stages of the project.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

IK : My life motto as a designer revolves around continuous improvement and innovation. I believe in pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and constantly learning to create designs that not only solve problems but also inspire and elevate user experiences. Embracing feedback, staying curious about new technologies, and striving for simplicity in design are principles that guide me in my journey as a designer.

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

IK : I believe it's a dynamic interaction where both design and trends influence each other. Designers often set trends by innovating and pushing boundaries, introducing new concepts, materials, and styles. These innovations can then inspire broader trends in industries and society. Conversely, societal trends, cultural shifts, and technological advancements also shape design preferences and directions. The most impactful designs often emerge from a balance between pioneering creativity and responsiveness to evolving trends and user needs.

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

IK : Technology tools like Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator are essential for creating visual designs and prototypes, allowing me to craft detailed and user-friendly interfaces. Tools such as Framer, React, and Vue enable me to develop interactive and dynamic elements, enhancing the functionality and user experience of my designs. For analytics, I rely on platforms like Google Analytics, Mixpanel, and Hotjar to gather insights into user behavior and refine my designs based on data-driven decisions. These tools collectively empower me to integrate cutting-edge technology seamlessly into my design process, ensuring robust and user-centric outcomes.

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

IK : In my design practice, I rely on a comprehensive suite of software and hardware tools to ensure efficiency and precision. Industry-standard applications like Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator are crucial for creating visually compelling designs and prototypes. For interactive and dynamic elements, I use frameworks such as Framer, React, and Vue, which empower me to build robust user interfaces tailored to client needs. To optimize user experiences, I utilize analytics platforms like Google Analytics, Mixpanel, and Hotjar, which provide valuable insights into user behavior and inform iterative design enhancements. On the hardware side, I work with a MacBook Pro and an external 4k monitor for detailed visualizations, complemented by a secondary affordable monitor to ensure cross-platform compatibility. I also utilize an iPad for its versatility in sketching, annotating, and presenting design concepts. Mobile designs are rigorously tested on both iPhone and Google Phone devices to ensure seamless user experiences across different platforms. Additionally, I always have a notebook and pen on hand for quick sketches and brainstorming sessions, and I rely on ChatGPT for both creative inspiration and technical guidance. These tools and equipment collectively support my creative process, allowing me to deliver innovative and effective design solutions.

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

IK : Color, materials, and ambient factors are pivotal in design, influencing user perception and functionality. Colors evoke emotions—warm tones like red energize, while cool blues calm. Materials define tactile experiences and convey qualities like luxury or sustainability. Ambient factors, such as lighting and spatial layout, enhance usability and atmosphere. Together, these elements shape cohesive, user-centered designs that fulfill functional needs and reflect brand identity or architectural intent.

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

IK : I wish people would ask more about the thought process behind my designs—how I balance functionality with aesthetics, the user-centric considerations, and the innovative solutions employed to solve specific challenges. Understanding these aspects can provide deeper insights into the intent and impact of my design work.

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

IK : When I encounter a new and impressive design or product, I'm immediately drawn to understanding the rationale behind its development. I ponder about the problems it aims to solve, the innovative methods used, and how it enhances user experience. Analyzing these aspects helps me appreciate the thoughtfulness and creativity that went into creating something impactful and inspiring.

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

IK : I absolutely believe in co-design and value the collaborative process. My ideal design partner is someone with more experience in areas where I can learn and grow. I love working with experienced designers to gain insights and skills that I'm not yet proficient in. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my own experiences and knowledge with less experienced designers, fostering a mutually beneficial learning environment. This collaborative approach not only enhances the design process but also contributes to personal and professional growth for everyone involved.

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

IK : The people who have had the most influence on my design work are primarily business owners and product managers. Their insights and vision shape the direction of our projects, providing valuable perspectives on how to solve user and business problems. Additionally, teammates who contribute ideas and suggestions on how to improve our products play a crucial role. Being a good listener is a significant part of my job, as it allows me to gather diverse viewpoints and create designs that truly meet the needs of our users and stakeholders.

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

IK : One of the first design books I read was on Adobe Illustrator and Corel Draw. This book opened a new window for me, introducing me to essential tools and techniques that I still use in my design process today. It provided a solid foundation in graphic design, which has had a lasting impact on my approach to creating visually compelling and functional designs. Additionally, "The Design of Everyday Things" has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of user-centered design. "Steve Jobs Hardcover" and "Henry Ford: My Life and Work - Enlarged Special Edition" have inspired me with their insights into innovation and design thinking. "Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot" has helped me improve my communication skills, which are crucial for presenting and discussing design ideas effectively. These books collectively have had a profound influence on my design philosophy and practice.

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

IK : I developed my skills as a master designer through continuous learning and active engagement in the design and tech communities. I'm always learning something new, whether it's a new design tool, technology, or technique. I make it a priority to attend as many conferences and events about technology and design as possible, which keeps me updated on industry trends and innovations. Being among highly skilled people in my field has been invaluable. Networking and collaborating with other professionals allows me to exchange ideas and gain different perspectives. Additionally, I contribute as a volunteer to open-source projects, which not only helps me give back to the community but also exposes me to real-world challenges and solutions. This combination of continuous learning, active participation in events, collaboration with experts, and hands-on experience through volunteer work has been crucial in honing my design skills and keeping me at the forefront of the industry.

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

IK : If I could meet and discuss with anyone, regardless of time and space, I would choose Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, Elon Musk, Karim Rashid, and Dieter Rams.

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

IK : I am very happy about the awards and recognition I've received; it makes me feel more confident in my abilities. Like any designer, there are moments when I doubt myself and question if I'm truly cut out for this field. Receiving awards reassures me that these doubts aren't true and validates my efforts. It also motivates me to continue developing myself, knowing there are many greater designers out there whom I aspire to be closer to. The recognition pushes me to keep striving for excellence and to never stop learning and improving. While being in the spotlight can be challenging at times, it ultimately drives me to achieve more and contribute positively to the design community.

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

IK : My favorite colors are green, grey, and blue. It depends on the context, but these shades resonate with me deeply. I love nature places such as mountains, forests, lakes, and the ocean. Puerto Rico, with its great old architecture and amazing beaches and nature, is one of my favorite places. When it comes to food, I enjoy Italian pizza, salads, and seafood. I appreciate all seasons, but spring and fall hold a special charm for me. My favorite things include my computer, car, cycle, and coffee machine. As for brands, I admire Apple, Bosch, Braun, Nike, Adidas, Dyson, Tesla, Sony, Samsung, Philips, Logitech, GoPro, NVIDIA, and OpenAI. These brands are known for their innovation, quality, and design, which aligns with my own values as a designer.

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

IK : One memorable experience I had as a designer was building my own cabin house using Agile techniques. I approached the project iteratively, constantly refining and adjusting the design as I progressed. At one point, when adding a new room, I realized the floor level was lower than the room I had built first. It required me to dig into the ground to ensure the floor levels were consistent between rooms, teaching me valuable lessons about spatial planning and precision in design. To add to the adventure, at one point, I realized I had mistakenly installed a door upside down!

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

IK : A great day for me as a designer is fueled by challenges that push me to innovate and problem-solve. Whether it's during physical activities or even while sleeping, I find moments of clarity where new ideas and solutions emerge. These instances are incredibly motivating, inspiring me to tackle design problems with renewed vigor. The thrill of overcoming challenges and the satisfaction of seeing ideas come to life are what truly make my day as a designer fulfilling and exciting.

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

IK : From a young age, my passion for painting and drawing, especially creating ideas like boats, aircraft, and treehouse designs for children, was evident. I always wanted to bring these ideas to life, which led me to learn practical skills from my grandfather, who was a geologist and a skilled handyman. His teachings on implementing ideas in real life were invaluable. Additionally, I joined a photographer club where I learned the entire process of photography, mastering the art of capturing realistic images. At the age of 9, I also joined an Aviamodelers club, where I delved deeper into working with various materials and developing aircraft models for competitions. This experience solidified my understanding of design principles and sparked my interest in creating tangible, functional products. Looking back, it's clear that from childhood, I had a natural inclination towards design and a deep-seated curiosity for turning imaginative concepts into reality.

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

IK : Looking ahead, I envision a future where our existence becomes increasingly intertwined with digital reality through advanced applications and programs. I believe we will transcend physical limitations, potentially achieving a form of digital immortality where aspects of our lives persist beyond our physical bodies. This evolution could enable unprecedented experiences, such as virtual travel at the speed of light, revolutionizing how we perceive and interact with the world around us.

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

IK : To my fans and supporters, I'm driven by a passion for innovation and excellence in design. From early experiments with painting and model aircraft to my current focus on AI-driven healthcare and cybersecurity platforms, each project reflects my commitment to pushing boundaries and solving real-world challenges. I value collaboration and continuous learning, engaging with open-source projects and attending conferences to stay ahead in technology and design. My goal is to create designs that are not only beautiful but also practical and user-centered. Thank you for your support—it motivates me to evolve and make meaningful contributions to design.