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Interview with Onur Yusuf Daştan |
Home > Designer Interviews > Onur Yusuf Daştan |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Onur Yusuf Daştan (OYD) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Onur Yusuf Daştan by clicking here.
FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
OYD: Reflecting on my journey into art and design, it's clear that the seeds were planted early in my childhood. I was fascinated by how things worked. This curiosity often led me to disassemble various objects around the house—much to my family's dismay, as it wasn't exactly a cheap hobby. They preferred that I keep things intact, but my urge to explore and understand the inner workings of mechanical devices was unstoppable. Another profound influence was a physics book that came with a newspaper one day. It opened up a world of steam engines for me, their power transmission mechanisms, and their operational diagrams. The book was a gateway to understanding physical laws in a practical context, which was thrilling. While I never consciously decided to pursue design from the start, it seems my nature gently nudged me along that path. As I grew older, I pursued physics in university, seeking to deepen my understanding of the principles I had been so enchanted by. However, I quickly realized that pure physics was too abstract for my liking. I yearned to apply these theoretical concepts practically, to create something tangible. This realization led me to discover industrial design, a field where science and creativity merge seamlessly. Industrial design was the perfect fit—it allowed me to use scientific principles to craft functional, aesthetic, and user-focused products. This career path has been a natural progression from my early interests, guiding me to a profession where I can satisfy my curiosity and creativity in equal measure. It's not just a job; it's a continuation of the passion that started with a simple physics book and a penchant for taking things apart to see how they tick.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
OYD: Launching my own design studio was a natural progression after years of accumulating a wealth of experience across various settings in the industry, from factories to small manufacturers and established design offices. Each environment contributed uniquely to my skill set and understanding of design, deeply influencing my approach and philosophy. Throughout my career, I've encountered a diverse array of professionals—each interaction, whether positive or negative, has left an indelible mark on my professional journey, helping to shape my approach and refine my design sensibilities. These experiences have been invaluable, teaching me not only about design itself but also about managing workflows, client relationships, and the often intricate process of bringing a conceptual design to tangible fruition. My studio is founded on the principles of lifelong learning and interdisciplinary exploration. I am continuously drawn to psychology, physics, and design, seeking ways to integrate these fields to enhance user interaction with products. This curiosity drives the ethos of my studio—exploring how people perceive, interact with, and are influenced by the objects around them. It's about understanding the subtle yet profound ways design touches lives and reshaping those interactions to create more meaningful, functional, and aesthetically pleasing products. Although the destination of perfecting this integration may seem distant, it is the journey itself that is truly enriching. The studio is more than just a business; it's a crucible for experimentation, innovation, and growth. It's a place where we continually challenge our limits, expand our perspectives, and strive to make a real impact through design. This ongoing process of exploration and discovery is what keeps our work fresh and exciting—not just for us but also for our clients and the users of our products.
FS: What is "design" for you?
OYD: For me, design is fundamentally about problem-solving. It's a discipline that merges functionality with aesthetics to enhance everyday life. At its core, design is about crafting solutions that not only address practical needs but also improve the way we live, interact, and relate to our environment. It's about creating objects and spaces that people not only need to use but love to engage with. Design also carries a profound societal role. It has the power to shape better communities by considering sustainability and respect for nature. In this sense, design isn't just about the products we create but about fostering a more thoughtful society that values and protects its environment. Good design harmonizes with its surroundings and contributes positively, promoting sustainability and minimizing harm. Moreover, design is often invisible in its most effective forms. It's in the seamless way things function, the intuitive ease with which we use an object, or the comfort we feel in a well-planned space. Yet, while it might be invisible, its effects are significant, and we derive pleasure and satisfaction from its presence. Whether it’s a joy sparked by the elegance of an item or the smooth experience of using a well-designed service, design enhances our lives quietly but powerfully.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
OYD: When considering what kinds of works I like designing most, I find myself drawn to projects that blend functionality with an element of innovation. These are designs that not only solve practical problems but also push the boundaries of what's possible within the realm of everyday objects. I particularly enjoy working on products that integrate smart technologies, as these projects challenge me to think about design in multi-dimensional ways—how a product looks, interacts, and connects within the space it occupies. I'm also passionate about sustainable design. Creating products that are eco-friendly and promote sustainability is incredibly rewarding. It aligns with my personal values and the responsibility I feel as a designer to contribute positively to the world. Whether it's through material choice, manufacturing processes, or lifecycle considerations, designing with sustainability in mind challenges me to be innovative and thoughtful about every aspect of the design process. Ultimately, the types of design projects that excite me the most are those that require a deep understanding of user needs and a creative application of technology and materials. These projects allow me to explore the full scope of my capabilities as a designer and deliver solutions that are not just functional but also enriching to the user's life and kind to the environment.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
OYD: One of my favorite designers is Dieter Rams, whose work has profoundly influenced my approach to design. Rams is celebrated for his philosophy that "less, but better" not only makes a product more useful but also makes it aesthetically pleasing. His ten principles for good design are foundational in the field and emphasize simplicity, functionality, and longevity, principles that resonate deeply with my own design sensibilities. Among Rams’ extensive portfolio, the Braun T3 pocket radio stands out as a particularly iconic piece. Designed in the late 1950s, it exemplifies the clarity, functionality, and unobtrusive aesthetics that define Rams' approach. The T3 radio’s design is straightforward and intuitive, with a clear user interface and a form that is as minimalistic as it is functional. This design not only influenced generations of products beyond Braun, including inspiring some of the early Apple products, a testament to its enduring legacy. The T3 radio's minimalist aesthetic, combined with its user-friendly design, encapsulates what I admire most about Rams' work: his ability to create products that are timeless and universally understood. His designs transcend mere functionality—they enhance daily life by making the interaction between user and product as effortless and enjoyable as possible. Rams’ work continuously inspires me to strive for simplicity and elegance in my own designs, ensuring that each product not only serves its purpose but does so with an aesthetic clarity that appeals to users on a fundamental level.
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
OYD: The first design project I completed for a company was truly a delightful endeavor—it was a playground named "Bodrum," inspired by the picturesque city of Bodrum in Turkey. Known for its stunning maritime vistas, white-washed structures with blue accents, and a relaxed seaside ambiance, the city served as a perfect muse for a playground design. The main goal was to capture the essence of Bodrum’s charming and vibrant atmosphere, translating it into a space that would ignite joy and excitement in children. To achieve this, I used a color palette dominated by blues and whites, reflecting the city’s coastal and architectural themes. The layout of the playground was designed to mimic the meandering alleyways of Bodrum, with different zones and equipment representing various aspects of the city, like the marina and the bustling marketplaces. Each element of the playground was carefully crafted to ensure safety while encouraging imaginative play and physical activity. The use of durable, weather-resistant materials meant the playground would maintain its beauty and functionality for years, mirroring the enduring allure of its namesake city. This project not only allowed me to explore a creative interpretation of a beloved locale but also gave me invaluable experience in designing engaging and safe public spaces for children. It was a fantastic project that combined cultural elements with functional design, setting a solid foundation for my future endeavors in the design industry.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
OYD: My fascination with artificial intelligence (AI) significantly influences my favorite choice of technology. AI's potential to transform how we interact with our environments and objects is particularly exciting in the field of design. The capability of AI to analyze vast amounts of data for insights that can inform better design decisions, optimize processes, and even predict future trends is truly revolutionary. AI’s integration into design tools allows for a more iterative and dynamic creative process. It can help streamline tasks such as prototyping, testing, and refining designs, making these processes more efficient and less resource-intensive. For instance, AI can simulate how a product will be used by different demographics, helping designers to create more inclusive and accessible products. Moreover, I am particularly interested in how AI can contribute to sustainable design practices. It can optimize material usage and waste reduction, recommend sustainable materials, and even ensure that the products are designed for longevity and recyclability. As we look to the future, I’m eager to explore and integrate more AI-driven tools into my work. This technology not only enhances my ability to create innovative solutions but also opens up new possibilities for making design more sustainable and impactful in people's lives. AI represents a frontier for creativity and efficiency in design that is just beginning to be tapped, and I am excited to be part of this journey.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
OYD: It's interesting to think about creativity, especially since I often feel like I never truly feel creative in the conventional sense. For me, creativity isn't so much about sudden bursts of inspiration but more about a consistent and methodical process of problem-solving. I find that my best ideas often come through deliberate and thoughtful exploration of a challenge, rather than spontaneous creativity. This process-oriented approach means I often feel most 'creative' when I'm deep in the midst of working through a design problem—analyzing data, considering user feedback, or iterating on a prototype. It's in these moments of intense focus and problem-solving where what others might call 'creativity' emerges as practical solutions and innovations. Moreover, I think this continuous and rigorous engagement with a problem helps demystify the idea of creativity as something mystical. Instead, it presents creativity as an accessible tool that anyone can develop with practice and persistence. So, while I might not feel 'creative' in the traditional sense, I recognize and appreciate the creativity inherent in the process of meticulous, analytical exploration.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
OYD: When I approach a design, I prioritize a blend of aesthetics, functionality, and user experience. I am deeply committed to ensuring that each design is not only visually appealing but also practical and easy to use. This approach helps create products that are intuitive and enhance daily life, making them more than just objects but useful and engaging tools for the user. I also place significant emphasis on sustainability, consistently seeking ways to minimize environmental impact through your choice of materials and design techniques. This reflects my belief that good design should be responsible and considerate of its ecological footprint. In essence, my design philosophy involves a careful balance of beauty, utility, and sustainability, aiming to create products that are both meaningful and environmentally conscious. This holistic focus ensures that your designs are not only effective but also resonate with users and stand the test of time.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
OYD: Designing, for me, is a deeply immersive and intense experience that often brings a mix of emotions. Perhaps the most prevalent feeling I encounter during the design process is stress. This stress isn't just about meeting deadlines or adhering to client specifications—it's also about the internal pressure I put on myself to create something that is not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and impactful. Despite the stress, there's also a profound sense of excitement and challenge. Each project presents a unique problem to solve, which engages my creativity and problem-solving skills at a deep level. The process of transforming an initial concept into a tangible, functional design is exhilarating. Moreover, there's a significant emotional investment in wanting to ensure that every aspect of the design aligns with the intended user experience and environmental considerations. The responsibility of creating something that will be part of someone's daily life or impact their environment is something I take seriously, which adds to the emotional complexity of the design process. Ultimately, while designing can be stressful, it is also incredibly rewarding. The satisfaction of overcoming challenges and seeing the final product come to life—knowing it will make a positive difference—turns all the stress and effort into a worthwhile endeavor.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
OYD: When my designs come to fruition, the emotion is quite profound—almost as if I've brought a new child into the world. This feeling stems from the deep personal investment and care that go into every stage of the design process. From the initial concept to the final product, each step involves meticulous attention and dedication, making the realization of the design immensely rewarding. Seeing a design materialize from ideas and sketches into a tangible, usable product is a moment of both relief and immense pride. It's akin to watching a part of myself take shape and function in the real world, capable of making an impact on others' lives. This feeling of creation and contribution is incredibly fulfilling, adding a deep emotional layer to the practical aspects of design and manufacturing. Every completed project reinforces my passion for design and motivates me to pursue new challenges, knowing that each creation has the potential to enhance experiences, improve functionality, and bring joy to people's lives. This cycle of creativity and realization is what keeps the passion for my work alive and continually growing.
FS: What makes a design successful?
OYD: From my perspective, a design is successful if it solves a problem elegantly and efficiently while being intuitive for the user. It should blend form and function in a way that feels seamless and enhances everyday life without drawing unnecessary attention to itself. A truly successful design not only meets the immediate needs of its users but does so in a way that feels naturally integrated into their daily routines.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
OYD: When judging a design as good or bad, the first aspects I consider are its functionality and user experience. Does the design effectively solve the problem it was intended to address? Is it intuitive and accessible for its intended users? These initial evaluations provide a foundational understanding of the design's practicality and its impact on the user's daily life. From there, I look at the sustainability and aesthetics—how environmentally friendly the design is, and how well its form complements its function. These aspects collectively determine the overall quality and success of a design in meeting both practical and emotional needs.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
OYD: As a designer, I see my responsibilities to society and the environment as essential aspects of my work. I’m committed to creating designs that are sustainable and have a positive impact on people's lives. For me, it's about making thoughtful choices that benefit the environment, ensuring accessibility and usability for everyone, and always considering the broader effects of my designs on the community and the world.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
OYD: The design field is rapidly evolving with technology, especially with advancements in artificial intelligence and sustainable materials. The future of design is likely to be more integrated with these technologies, focusing on creating solutions that are not only innovative but also environmentally responsible and deeply user-centric. As designers, we're moving towards a future where our creations are smarter, more adaptive, and more in tune with individual needs and environmental sustainability.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
OYD: My design inspiration often comes from everyday life—the challenges and needs I observe around me. I also draw a lot of creativity from nature and its efficient, sustainable systems. To feed my creativity, I stay curious and keep learning, whether through reading about new technologies and materials or exploring different fields like psychology and physics. These diverse sources fuel my creativity and help me bring fresh perspectives and solutions into my designs.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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