Kezia Age

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Kezia Age ("KA") 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?

KA : I graduated with a Bachelor's in Architecture in 2020. After gaining some experience working in retail industry, I pursued my Master's degree in Interior Architecture and Design and completed in 2024.

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

KA : I grew up in a retail environment where my mom owned a small toy store that sold many things that made children happy. This inspired me to be a retail designer, bringing back those warm memories through simple and minimal designs.

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

KA : Ever since I was young, I've wanted to be a retail designer. I love the idea of making people happy, changing perspective, and improving their lives through design. That's what inspires me to pursue this career.

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

KA : I design elements in the retail industry, such as product displays, restaurant plates, lamp, and other details that directly interact with the user. I'm excited about the prospect of creating even more of these products in the future.

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

KA : I think it's important not to focus too much on making a huge amount of money from the designs you create, but rather to focus on improving the quality and impact of your designs.

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

KA : A good designer creates functional and visually appealing solutions, while a great designer deeply understands the user's needs, innovates, and leaves a lasting impact with their work.

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

KA : For me, it's simple. If the design moves people towards a positive way of life and improves their quality of life, I consider it a good design.

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

KA : Good design enhances experiences, solves problems effectively, and creates meaningful connections. It's an investment that improves efficiency, competitiveness, and brand perception, ultimately enriching lives and shaping a better future for everyone.

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

KA : If I could turn back time, I'd like to redesign my mom's toy store. While the products are good, but due to a lack of design knowledge, they weren't represented in the best way. However, it's a lesson learned, and I'll strive to do my best for my clients.

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

KA : Creating an inclusive retail design where everyone feels welcome and valued. It's about accessibility, diversity, and fostering a sense of belonging for all customers, with a unique blend of art and technology.

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

KA : My secret ingredient for success in retail design is understanding the user. It enables me to create experiences that resonate and drive success for the brand.

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

KA : I am into parametric, minimalist, and poetic design. The designs of Zaha Hadid, Tadao Ando, and Carlo Scarpa influence me the most.

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

KA : Tadao Ando's Church of the Light captivates me for its minimalistic yet profoundly poetic nature. Its play of light and shadow evokes introspection and touches the heart, creating a space of spiritual contemplation and humility.

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

KA : I think the design of the Ojiro Official Store stands out as my significant achievement. It represents a retail food store that I meticulously crafted with the intention of welcoming individuals from all economic backgrounds.

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

KA : To improve as a designer, dedicate time to learning, seek feedback, stay curious, network, embrace failure, and learn from mistakes.

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

KA : If not design, I might have pursued writing or philosophy. Both offer ways to explore human nature deeply. Through writing, I could share resonant stories, while philosophy allows pondering life's big questions. Yet, understanding people would remain central to my pursuits.

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

KA : For me, design is a tool of communication to express ideas. It is a medium that can explain concepts and touch human emotions without words, connecting generation to generation.

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

KA : Firstly, my mom has been my greatest supporter, offering unwavering encouragement and belief in my abilities. Secondly, Giuseppina, one of my university lecturers has played a pivotal role during challenging times, providing guidance as I've grown as a designer.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

KA : I was diagnosed with hearing loss in my 20s, and it pushed me to rely on design to communicate. I believe that experience has greatly contributed to shaping me into a great designer.

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

KA : I faced obstacles such as self-doubt, mastering design tools, and effectively communicating ideas. Overcoming these challenges required perseverance and continuous learning.

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

KA : Designers should present their work clearly and compellingly, showcasing their design process, key features, and how the design meets the needs of the user. Visual aids and effective communication are key.

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

KA : Recently, I have been collaborating with some food and beverage brands, developing product displays that combine food art with 3D printing technology.

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

KA : My ultimate aspiration as a retail product designer is to craft experiences that resonate profoundly with individuals, touching the depths of their emotions and perceptions.

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

KA : People expect innovative solutions, exceptional creativity, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of my work. They also hope that my designs will be competitive with other retail brands, setting new standards and leaving a lasting impression in the industry.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

KA : I think design contributes to a better society by addressing challenges, enhancing experiences, and promoting inclusivity. It inspires positive change, fosters social equality and sustainability.

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

KA : Recently, I have been collaborating with some food and beverage brands, developing product displays that combine food art with 3D printing technology.

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

KA : My design of the Ojiro Official Store satisfies me greatly. It symbolizes a retail food establishment I meticulously created with the aim of accommodating people from varying economic backgrounds.

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

KA : I'd like to see the design industry blend technology with tradition and inject a personal touch into designs. This combination has the potential to revolutionize the design industry, offering innovative solutions while preserving the authenticity and human connection that are essential to meaningful design experiences.

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

KA : I believe the design field is heading towards a future where sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. We'll see a greater emphasis on eco-friendly practices, user-centered design, and the integration of technology to create seamless and meaningful experiences.

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

KA : It depends on the project. In the retail industry, four months or less is typical for completing one project.

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

KA : In the design process, I usually start with analysing the problem, conduct research on the design, and then brainstorm to find the best solution, considering all aspects of the design. Afterward, I begin creating mock-up designs to ensure they work well and can be produced in real life.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

KA : My motto is “Designing for Impact, Lasting Impressions."

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

KA : I think it's a dynamic interplay between design and trends. Designers often anticipate and shape trends through their innovative creations, pushing boundaries and introducing new concepts. At the same time, trends emerge from societal, cultural, and technological shifts, influencing the direction of design. Ultimately, it's a symbiotic relationship where design both sets and responds to trends, constantly evolving in tandem with the world around us.

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

KA : Technology, including advanced software tools and 3D printing, enhances creativity, efficiency, and collaboration in my design process.

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

KA : I use mostly 3D modelling software and 3D printer.

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

KA : Color, materials, and ambient elements play crucial roles in design, influencing the mood, atmosphere, and functionality of a space or product. The careful selection of colors can evoke emotions, convey brand identity, and guide user experiences. Ambient factors such as lighting, sound, and temperature contribute to the overall sensory experience, shaping how people perceive and interact with their surroundings.

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

KA : The story behind my design, the thought process behind specific choices, and how the design aims to address their needs and solve a specific issue.

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

KA : Encountering a new great design or product ignites a sense of wonder and curiosity within me. I find myself captivated by the creativity and ingenuity behind its conception, and I'm eager to delve deeper into its intricacies.

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

KA : My ideal design partner is someone who shares my passion for innovation and collaboration. I firmly believe in the value of co-design, where diverse perspectives come together to create impactful solutions.

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

KA : My mentors, colleagues, and clients have had the most influence on my design, shaping my approach and pushing me to think creatively and critically.

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

KA : Emotional Design by Don Norman.

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

KA : I developed my skills as designer through education, hands-on experience, continuous learning, and mentorship.

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

KA : I would love to meet design visionaries and philosopher like Zaha Hadid and Aristotle, regardless of time and space, to discuss their insights and experiences.

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

KA : Receiving awards and recognition is humbling, validating the effort I've put into my work. While fame brings opportunities, it also comes with challenges, such as managing expectations and balancing personal and professional life. Nonetheless, I'm grateful for the platform it provides to inspire others through design.

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

KA : My favorite color are black and white, my preferred place is amidst nature, sushi is my go-to food for its organized presentation, and spring is my favorite season. I cherish the tranquility of nature, while Netflix is my preferred brand with its ability to transport us to new worlds and tell captivating stories with each click of the remote.

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

KA : As a designer, I often deal with requests for creative solutions. One memorable occasion was when a woman asked me to design a space-frame dress to make her look thinner at her wedding party. It was certainly a creative challenge, blending fashion with structural engineering to achieve the perfect look.

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

KA : Tackling new challenges, unleashing creativity, and seeing ideas come to life. I motivate myself by setting clear goals, staying curious, and surrounding myself with a supportive community.

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

KA : It wasn't obvious at all. My childhood aspirations were simply to create things that made people happy. It was only as I grew older and discovered my passion for design that I realized the potential to turn that aspiration into a career.

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

KA : Predicting the future is always a challenge, but I envision a world where technological advancements continue to shape every aspect of our lives. From AI and robotics to sustainable innovations, humanity will likely face both opportunities and challenges. I believe that as long as we prioritize collaboration, empathy, and sustainability, we can create a future where everyone thrives.

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

KA : I want to express my deep gratitude for your support and encouragement. My passion for design stems from a desire to make a positive impact and create meaningful design for people. Thank you.