Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Seyedsajad Jalalsadat ("SJ") 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?

SJ : My academic journey in industrial design began around 2019 or 2020 at Azad University, Central Tehran Branch. I officially kicked off my professional career in product and lighting design in the spring or summer of 2023, joining HOBO as a designer.

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

SJ : I've always had a deep passion for creating it's something that's been with me since childhood. I’ve never been one to follow instructions, even as a kid building LEGO sets. I’d always stray from the manuals to build something original new forms, new ideas. My school notebooks were filled not just with notes, but with sketches of futuristic products mostly cars and spacecraft. That drive to improve things and push boundaries has never left me.

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

SJ : Becoming a designer was never a coincidence it’s been my choice for as long as I can remember, and I believe it always will be. In my view, there’s no profession more fulfilling than design. The act of creation of bringing something new into the world is, to me, the greatest joy there is.

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

SJ : I approach design by observing products from angles most people overlook. I focus on subtle, often-ignored aspects and try to build meaningful solutions around them. While I firmly believe the world needs more sustainable products, I also understand that design can't rely on that alone. My work blends sustainability with minimalism and, at times, deconstruction deeply influenced by bionic design. Nature, after all, is the most flawless example of creation. In short, my work often integrates minimalist principles, elements of deconstructivism, sustainable design thinking, and inspirations drawn from the elegance of nature through bionic design. That’s the space I feel most alive in, and the type of design I wish to explore even further.

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

SJ : Design or any craft, really requires an obsessive attention to detail. But if someone’s asking for the truth about growth and progress, here it is: you have to do the work. Not talk about it, not overthink it just do it. But do it only if you're absolutely sure you love it. Passion isn’t optional in this field; it’s the fuel that carries you through the hard days.

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

SJ : A good designer creates beautiful, functional products. But for what I call a great Designer, there’s something more what I like to refer to as a (Mother Design). It’s a creation so impactful, it gives birth to entire categories beneath it. Think of the original iPhone Steve Jobs, whom I personally consider a designer in his own right, didn’t just launch a product he introduced a whole new paradigm. That’s the level of design I deeply admire and strive for.

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

SJ : Good design, in my view, is one that performs its function flawlessly without creating any visual or environmental noise. Its form should feel so natural and appropriate that it never irritates the eye. Above all, a well designed product solves a problem without causing new ones in the process.

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

SJ : Better Design. Better Future.

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

SJ : If I ever find the time, I’d love to design the House of Iranian Music a dedicated space for traditional Persian music performances. It’s a dream project where architecture and cultural identity could harmonize beautifully.

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

SJ : One of my biggest goals and dreams in design is to lead the creation of a new generation of BMW’s 4, 6, and 8 Series sedans especially the 4 Series. Becoming the lead designer for these iconic cars would be a defining milestone in my career.

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

SJ : Thinking and creating is always on my mind whether I’m at a concert, a party, the stadium, eating, at university, or work. I’m constantly observing random objects in my hands, studying their details to inspire product and design improvements. I always keep my environment comfortable and fun to maintain my creative freedom, because pressure tends to disrupt a designer’s mind. Also, wildlife documentaries are absolutely perfect for fueling creativity.

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

SJ : Steve Jobs has been a major source of inspiration for me. He’s the greatest legend I know someone who truly redefined what it means to create with purpose, vision, and impact.