farnoush mohajerani

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer farnoush mohajerani ("FM") 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?

FM : I’ve always had a deep passion for design, and that passion eventually led me to change my academic path. Although I originally studied something else, I decided to take a risk and pursue architecture. After starting my studies in architecture, I went on to complete a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture. This shift marked a more serious beginning for me in the world of design.

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

FM : For me, design is not just about creating something beautiful or functional—it’s more like a form of communication, a way to express feelings, spaces, and ideas that words alone can’t fully convey. I’ve always been fascinated by how design can influence how people feel and experience their surroundings. That impact, and the possibility of creating something that connects with others, is what truly motivates me to design. That’s why I chose to become a designer—because it allows me to connect with the world through the things I create.

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

FM : My decision to become a designer was completely deliberate and based on my genuine passion and inner drive. Although my academic path involved some changes, I never felt that this path was imposed on me. Design was a natural choice, stemming from my desire to create and connect with others through my work. Therefore, I can say that becoming a designer was a decision I made wholeheartedly.

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

FM : I primarily work in product design and interior design. I am passionate about creating products that not only have aesthetic appeal but also provide a tangible and emotional experience for users. In the future, I wish to focus more on designing products that combine smart functionality with aesthetics, especially those that can have a positive impact on people’s daily lives.

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

FM : First and foremost, young designers should be passionate about design and always keep their curiosity alive. Design is a never-ending learning journey, and patience and perseverance are essential for success. They should seize opportunities, learn from diverse experiences, and at the same time listen to their inner voice. Most importantly, design should have meaning for them; when design is driven by purpose and passion, the path to becoming a “legend” becomes much clearer.

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

FM : A good designer can meet the basic and functional needs in design, but a great designer goes beyond that by considering the depth of user experience, social impact, and innovation. A great designer always seeks to create a deeper connection with the audience and strives to make their designs not only functional but also meaningful and inspiring. Ultimately, a commitment to continuous learning and embracing challenges is what sets a great designer apart.

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

FM : A good design becomes truly great when it achieves a harmonious balance between aesthetics, functionality, and user needs. Great design not only meets practical requirements but also creates a positive and meaningful experience for the user. I evaluate good design based on its impact on the user, its efficiency, and its innovation; a design that is simple, understandable, and inspiring is the best design in my view.

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

FM : Good design holds great value because it can make people’s lives easier, more beautiful, and more meaningful. Investing in good design means investing in quality, user experience, and long-term positive impact. Good design not only improves the performance of products and services but also creates a deeper connection with the audience, leading to their satisfaction and loyalty. That’s why every individual or business should pay special attention to good design.

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

FM : If I had enough time, I would love to work on projects that have a positive social and environmental impact. Designing for vulnerable communities or people with limited access to resources is very important to me because I want to make even a small contribution to improving their conditions. At the same time, designing for those with a luxurious and modern lifestyle, who have unique and distinct tastes, also fascinates me. I believe that receiving positive feedback from such individuals creates an exciting and motivating feeling that makes the design journey even more interesting.

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

FM : My dream project is to design an innovative and practical product that can meaningfully and positively improve people’s everyday lives. A product that combines aesthetics, functionality, and smart technologies to truly meet users’ needs. I haven’t yet had enough time to develop and realize this idea, but I hope to work on it soon and make a positive impact in people’s lives.

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

FM : My secret recipe for success in design is a combination of relentless passion, continuous learning, and careful attention to detail. But the secret ingredient that always drives me forward is the ability to listen to the real needs of users and deeply understand the emotions behind every design. For example, from my experience in candle making, I paid close attention to customers’ feedback. One interesting question many asked was, “If we light the candle, will its form change?” Although this question didn’t seem logical to me at first, it revealed how much they valued the stability of the form and the product’s ability to be renewed or rebuilt. Understanding these needs helped me create designs that are not only beautiful but also practical and durable, enhancing the user experience.

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

FM : I have been inspired by many design masters who have shaped the design world with their innovation and unique perspectives. Designers like Dieter Rams, Zaha Hadid, and Frank Lloyd Wright have always been role models for me. They taught me that design should combine excellent functionality with beauty and meaning. Besides them, I also pay special attention to contemporary designers who are pushing boundaries with fresh and bold styles.

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

FM : Among the works of other designers, a few pieces have always stood out to me. For example, Dieter Rams’ designs inspire me because of their simplicity, functionality, and exceptional aesthetics. Also, Zaha Hadid’s works with their bold and innovative forms always catch my attention, as they show how design can push beyond conventional boundaries. These designs teach me how to balance beauty and function while going beyond usual frameworks.

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

FM : In my opinion, my greatest design is the one I entered in the A’ Design Award competition and won a prize for. This design not only embodies beauty and strong aesthetic principles but also offers great expandability and flexibility, making it suitable for use in various spaces.

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

FM : To improve as designers, the most important things are passion and perseverance. Continuous learning, careful observation, consistent practice, and seeking feedback from others are very helpful. I have always tried to learn from both my personal experiences and others’ opinions, paying close attention to details in my projects. Participating in competitions and collaborating with diverse teams also helped me gain new perspectives and elevate my design skills.

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

FM : If I hadn’t become a designer, I would probably have pursued a field related to art or creativity, like painting or photography, because I’ve always been passionate about artistic expression and wanted to share my feelings and perspective through art.

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

FM : For me, design is not just about creating something beautiful — it’s a way of thinking and problem-solving. Design means finding solutions that are functional, meaningful, and emotionally engaging. It should connect with people, whether through form, function, or the feeling of a space. I believe true design is an experience that stays with the user both in mind and in heart.

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

FM : Many people supported me along the way, but my biggest supporters have always been my family. They believed in me, even when I decided to change my academic path and pursue design. Their emotional support and the space they gave me to grow creatively played a major role in my development.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

FM : A combination of persistence, passion, and attention to detail helped me grow as a designer. I’ve always tried to listen carefully — whether to users’ needs or constructive feedback. My experience in candle-making also had a big impact, as it taught me how design needs to align with real human needs. I believe one key to becoming a great designer is not just seeing from your own perspective, but being able to step into others’ shoes.

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

FM : One of the biggest challenges I faced was changing my field of study. I came from a completely different academic background, and this decision was initially risky and full of doubts. Additionally, entering a creative field without formal background always requires extra effort, confidence, and perseverance. But my genuine passion for design helped me overcome these obstacles and find my own path.

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

FM : Designers should present their work clearly and engagingly, effectively conveying the idea and process behind the design. It’s important to showcase not just the final result, but also the story, challenges, and solutions involved. The presentation should be simple, organized, and easy to understand so the audience can easily appreciate the value and innovation of the design. Using high-quality images, real samples, and concise yet impactful explanations greatly helps this process.

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

FM : My next project focuses on designing products that combine functionality and beauty, especially in areas I have experience with, like candle-making. I also want to create designs that respond to the specific needs of different people, including those who seek luxurious and modern products with unique tastes. I hope these projects will create spaces that are both practical and convey a pleasant, distinctive feeling.

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

FM : My ultimate goal is for my designs to be not only beautiful and functional but also to have a positive and lasting impact on people’s lives. I want to create work that feels inspiring and helps improve quality of life. For me, design is a way to foster better connections between people and their environment, and I hope one day to create works that become a reference and inspiration for future generations.

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

FM : People expect an esteemed designer like myself to deliver ideas and designs that are innovative, high-quality, and aligned with their real needs. They also expect attention to detail and the ability to think beyond appearance, focusing on functionality and user experience. Ultimately, people want to see designs that are inspiring, impactful, and create a deep connection with the audience.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

FM : Design can have a positive impact on society by improving people’s everyday quality of life. When designs are functional, beautiful, and aligned with real needs, they make our surroundings more comfortable, pleasant, and sustainable. Good design can enhance the connection between people and their environments, raise awareness about social and environmental issues, and ultimately contribute to building a more conscious and responsible society.

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

FM : Currently, I’m focused on a project that combines art and functionality, especially in the field of candle-making. This project excites me because it allows me to blend creativity with the real needs of people and create products that are both beautiful and practical. It also gives me the chance to connect more closely with my audience and receive positive feedback, which is very motivating.

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

FM : The design projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those where I was able to balance aesthetics and functionality. Especially the ones I entered into design competitions and won awards for, because these projects are not only visually appealing but also flexible and expandable, suitable for various spaces. These qualities make me feel more satisfied with the final outcome.

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

FM : I would like to see the design industry move more towards sustainability and greater respect for the environment in the coming years. I also hope designers pay more attention to the real needs of people and create more practical and human-centered designs. With advances in technology, there are greater opportunities for innovation and creative work that can elevate the industry to a higher level.

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

FM : I believe the design field is moving towards a greater integration of advanced technologies with human creativity. Future designs will be smarter, more sustainable, and highly personalized. There will also be increased attention to the social and environmental impacts of design, with designers playing a key role in shaping a more responsible and adaptable future that meets human needs.

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

FM : The time it takes to finalize a design project depends on the size, complexity, and specific requirements of the project. Some projects may take a few weeks, while larger and more complex ones can take several months. However, I always strive to balance quality and timing to ensure the best final result.

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

FM : When I start a new design project, I first make sure to fully understand the needs and desires of the client or users. Researching the context, studying the target audience, and analyzing constraints and opportunities are the first steps. Then, I begin brainstorming and creating concepts to build a strong foundation for the design. This process helps ensure that the final design is both practical and meets real needs.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

FM : My life motto as a designer is to always create designs with creativity and precision that are both beautiful and make life simpler and better. For me, design means creating an effective connection between people and their surroundings.

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

FM : I believe there is a two-way relationship between design and trends. Sometimes designers create new trends through their creativity and innovation, and other times trends and societal needs inspire designs. In fact, design and trends continuously interact and influence each other.

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

FM : Technology plays a very important role in the design process. Advanced tools and software help me execute my ideas faster and more accurately, and see details more clearly. Technology also enables the creation of more innovative and personalized designs. However, ultimately, it is human creativity and a deep understanding of needs that make a design truly stand out.

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

FM : In my design work, I use various software such as AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, and Photoshop. Depending on the project type and the stage of work, I employ different tools to achieve the best results. Additionally, using physical modeling equipment and 3D printers in some projects helps me better review and refine my designs.

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

FM : Color, materials, and ambient environment all play very important roles in design and help create the user’s feeling and experience. Colors can evoke different emotions and greatly affect the mood of a space. Materials not only add beauty but also determine functionality and durability, conveying a sense of touch and quality. The ambient environment combines all these elements to shape the overall experience and connection between the design and people.

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

FM : I wish people would ask about the story and idea behind my design—what needs I considered and how I tried to address them in the best way. I also hope they’re curious about the feeling and experience my design creates for the users.

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

FM : When I see a new great design or product, the first thing that comes to my mind is the creative process behind it and how the designer successfully addressed the needs and constraints. I also think about how that design can improve people’s lives and what kind of feelings it creates for the users. These kinds of designs always inspire me.

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

FM : My ideal design partner is someone who is both creative and a good listener, someone who can clearly express their ideas and respects others’ opinions. I strongly believe in co-design because I think the best results come when multiple minds and perspectives come together and collaborate. This teamwork makes designs more practical, creative, and comprehensive.

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

FM : The people who have had the most influence on my design are my professors during my studies, as well as clients and employers who gave me honest and real feedback. These interactions helped me broaden my perspective and guide my designs toward being more practical and human-centered.

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

FM : The books that have had the most impact on my design are those focusing on the human aspects and psychology of design, such as books about user experience and human behavior in architectural spaces. These books helped me look beyond aesthetics and pay attention to users’ needs and feelings, shaping my designs with this perspective.

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

FM : I developed my skills through a combination of formal education, practical experience, and continuous learning. I always tried to learn something new from every project and challenge, keeping myself updated. Interacting with other designers and receiving constructive feedback also helped me grow. Additionally, experience in different design fields, like interior architecture and candle making, broadened my perspective and gave me diverse skills.

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

FM : If there were no limits of time and space, I would love to meet and talk with great architects and designers like Zaha Hadid or Frank Lloyd Wright. I believe conversations with such people could offer fresh perspectives and inspiration about creativity and the design process.

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

FM : Receiving awards and recognition has been not only motivating for me but also a sign that I am on the right path. Of course, being famous comes with its own challenges and responsibilities, but for me, more important than fame is the satisfaction I get from my work and the impact my designs have on others.

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

FM : My favorite color is gray because it gives a sense of calm and balance. My favorite place is nature, where I can freely express my creativity. My favorite food is traditional Iranian dishes, like Ghormeh Sabzi. I love autumn because of its unique colors and atmosphere. My favorite thing is reading books, as I always learn something new. As for brands, I appreciate those that combine creativity and quality, like Apple.

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

FM : A Memorable Moment in Candle Making: I vividly recall the first time I showcased my handmade candles to customers. One of them curiously asked, “If I light this candle, will its shape change?”

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

FM : My day becomes great when I see the tangible results of my work. Witnessing a design that effectively addresses a real need or receiving positive feedback from a client brings me immense satisfaction. To keep myself motivated, I set short-term goals and celebrate each milestone. Additionally, I draw energy from studying the works of renowned designers and engaging in professional discussions

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

FM : From an early age, I was drawn to creativity. I would spend hours sketching, crafting, and reimagining everyday objects. Although I didn’t recognize it as “design” at the time, these activities laid the foundation for my passion. It wasn’t a predetermined path, but looking back, the signs were certainly there.

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

FM : Imagining a thousand years into the future is both challenging and fascinating. With the rapid advancement of technology, it’s conceivable that humanity might explore or even inhabit other planets. Artificial intelligence and nanotechnology could revolutionize daily life, potentially mitigating issues like pollution and disease. However, challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity may persist. I hope that through collaboration and innovation, humans will build a sustainable and better future for the generations to come.

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

FM : I’m grateful for the support and interest in my work. While I prefer to let my designs speak for themselves, I believe it’s important to share that each piece reflects my personal journey, values, and the experiences that have shaped me. Design, for me, is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating meaningful connections and solving real problems. I draw inspiration from various aspects of life, and I strive to infuse my work with authenticity and purpose. Ultimately, I hope my designs resonate with others and contribute positively to the world around us.