Interview with Caglar Araz
Caglar Araz, a seasoned Lead Product Designer at Veo Technologies, brings a unique blend of discipline and creative innovation honed during his tenure at LEGO.
Design Legend Interview
2 January 2025
My foundation in design stems from a degree in Digital Design from Aarhus University, where I learned to merge creativity and technology. Beyond formal education, I’ve continuously honed my craft through diverse projects and side endeavors. From redesigning digital interfaces to exploring new tools, my learning journey has been hands-on and ever-evolving.
Design empowers me to solve meaningful problems. I’m driven by the idea of making life simpler and more delightful for users. The process of turning abstract ideas into tangible, impactful products motivates me every day.
t was an intentional choice. I’ve always been drawn to creativity and problem-solving, and design provided the perfect outlet to combine both.
My focus is on UX/UI for digital products, balancing function and aesthetics. I’m particularly interested in designing tools that make technology a healthy and harmonious part of our lives.
Stay curious, practice relentlessly, and embrace feedback. Understand the user deeply and build a portfolio that reflects your adaptability and passion. Consistency and a willingness to learn are key.
A good designer meets expectations. A great designer anticipates needs, creates lasting emotional impact, and considers long-term implications of their work.
Good design is intuitive, accessible, and delightful. It seamlessly blends form and function. I evaluate design by observing how it integrates into daily life and by listening to user feedback.
Good design builds trust, reduces friction, and enhances usability. It’s not just an aesthetic choice but a strategic one, fostering loyalty and long-term succes
I’d love to reimagine iOS’ foundational features, such as Notifications, Lock Screen, and Home Screen. These elements could be less intrusive and more meaningful, making daily interactions smoother and more intentional.
I’m drawn to complex challenges, particularly those that involve rethinking how users interact with technology on a fundamental level, such as creating an ecosystem for personalized digital well-being.
Keep it simple. Simplicity isn’t about lack of complexity; it’s about clarity, focus, and intention.
Chan Karunamuni, a designer at Apple, inspires me greatly. His work on fluid interfaces demonstrates how design can feel organic and alive, transcending static boundaries.
I’m fascinated by the Dynamic Island on iPhones. It transforms a utilitarian feature into an engaging and delightful interaction point, showing how design can elevate utility to art.
The World of Warcraft interface redesign stands out. It enhanced gameplay by centralizing critical information, improving usability, and creating a more immersive experience—a solution born out of personal insights and user feedback.
Discover your passion within the vast field of design. Specialize deeply while remaining open to adjacent disciplines. I’ve focused on improving by redesigning existing tools and seeking feedback from peers and users.
I’d explore music production. Like design, music is about creating harmony and resonance, though in a different medium.
Design is intentionality. It’s about shaping experiences, creating solutions, and connecting people with ideas or products in meaningful ways.
Mentors and colleagues have been instrumental. A senior friend once told me that designers are advocates as much as creators, a perspective that has deeply influenced me.
Practice, self-awareness, and a willingness to iterate. Understanding my strengths and weaknesses while maintaining curiosity keeps me growing.
One challenge was translating design skills into measurable value for businesses, ensuring that my work not only looked good but also drove meaningful outcomes.
Through compelling stories that highlight the journey, challenges, and impact. Passionate storytelling brings designs to life.
I’m working on an innovative project through my current role at Veo Technologies. While I can’t share details yet, I’m excited about its potential.
To create products that positively impact lives while working with inspiring collaborators.
They expect high-quality, user-focused designs that are thoughtful and impactful.
Design shapes how we interact with technology and each other. Thoughtful design ensures that these interactions are positive, inclusive, and meaningful.
I am excited for it to be launched, for the same reasons, I can't share much about the project as of now.
The World of Warcraft interface redesign. It was deeply personal and allowed me to connect with a passionate community, incorporating their feedback into the final design.
A shift away from outdated conventions like complex logins. The industry needs to embrace frictionless, secure, and user-friendly authentication methods.
AI integration is the next frontier. I’m excited to see how AI can enhance creativity and efficiency without losing the human touch.
It varies. Smaller projects take weeks, while more complex designs can take months of iteration and user testing.
With understanding—researching constraints, brainstorming, and exploring various directions before committing to a single path.
“Keep it simple, impactful, and meaningful.”
Design and trends influence each other in a dynamic loop. Good design often creates trends, while emerging trends push designers to innovate further.
Technology is both a tool and an enabler. It amplifies creativity, enhances efficiency, and allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in design.
I start with sketches on paper and then transition to Figma for high-fidelity designs. Recently, I’ve started using Play for prototyping and exploring interactive concepts.
Color and ambient elements are more than aesthetics; they guide attention, evoke emotions, and enhance functionality when used strategically.
“Why did you make this decision?” Understanding the rationale behind design choices can lead to more meaningful discussions and insights.
I feel inspired and energized. Great designs often spark ideas for my own work, reminding me of the limitless possibilities in design.
I love collaborating with others. Bringing diverse perspectives together often results in richer, more innovative designs.
My colleagues and mentors have had the biggest impact. Their insights and feedback challenge me to grow and refine my work.
Marie Kondo’s "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" influenced me greatly. The principles of decluttering and organization translate seamlessly into design thinking.
Practice and iteration. I often redesign existing products, share them online, and incorporate feedback. Copying great designs also taught me how to emulate quality in my work.
Chan Karunamuni from Apple. His approach to crafting fluid interfaces fascinates me, and I’d love to learn about his creative process.
I’m grateful for the recognition, but my focus remains on the work itself. Fame isn’t my goal; creating meaningful designs is.
Color: Teal for its calming yet energizing effect.
Place: The beach for its serenity.
Food: A well-made pasta dish.
Season: Spring for its sense of renewal.
Thing: My guitar.
Brand: Apple, for its seamless design and innovation.
Place: The beach for its serenity.
Food: A well-made pasta dish.
Season: Spring for its sense of renewal.
Thing: My guitar.
Brand: Apple, for its seamless design and innovation.
I find it funny when people think my prototypes are real, and I explain them that it's not.
A great day is when I solve a challenging problem creatively. Staying motivated comes from seeing my designs positively impact others.
Yes! I’ve always enjoyed organizing and beautifying things, whether it was my homework or my room. My teachers often praised my creativity.
I hope technology will harmonize with humanity, providing safe and positive advancements that enhance lives without compromising our values.
Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making lives better. I strive to approach every project with this mindset and hope my work inspires others to do the same.
Designer Interview
25 July 2024
I discovered my passion for design as a teenager while playing video games. Frustrated with the clunky user interfaces, I began designing and customizing my own, significantly enhancing my gaming experience. This early interest in improving user interactions sparked my journey into the world of design.
For me, design is about simplifying life. It should make tasks easier, reduce stress, and bring us closer to the people and activities we love. A good design helps us achieve our goals effortlessly, without adding any negative elements to our experience. In a world filled with digital noise and clutter, design should be a beacon of clarity and utility.
I thrive on designing complex, interactive experiences that require a deep understanding of both physical and digital realms. My expertise lies in user interface design, where I can create intuitive and seamless interactions that enhance user satisfaction.
One of my favorite designs is the mechanism of the AirPods Pro case. The satisfying click when you open and close the lid is a perfect blend of accessibility and durability. It’s a small detail, but it significantly enhances the user experience.
I have a particular affinity for Apple’s ecosystem due to its seamless integration and user-centric design philosophy. The consistency across devices and platforms provides a reliable foundation for innovative design.
I feel most creative when I step away from my computer and take a walk. Observing the world and reflecting on my projects often sparks new ideas. Additionally, watching users interact with the products I’m designing provides invaluable insights and inspiration.
I prioritize functionality and usability. A design must serve its purpose efficiently and be easy for users to navigate. These elements form the backbone of a successful user experience.
Designing is an emotional journey, filled with both highs and lows. The process can be challenging, but persistence often leads to elegant and simple solutions. Speaking up and choosing the right battles is crucial, but ultimately, the satisfaction of solving a problem outweighs the struggles.
When my designs are realized, I feel a temporary sense of relief, quickly followed by new ideas for improvement. The desire to refine and enhance never truly goes away, as there’s always room for betterment.
A successful design is one that provides a seamless and enjoyable user experience. It meets user needs effectively while being aesthetically pleasing and easy to use.
The overall user experience is paramount. I immerse myself in the product as if I were a user, evaluating its functionality, usability, and emotional impact.
Designers have a responsibility to create solutions that positively impact society and the environment. It’s important to design with empathy, considering the broader implications of our work on people and the planet.
The design field is rapidly evolving alongside technology. While technological advancements are exciting, it’s crucial to ensure they contribute positively to humanity. The future of design lies in balancing innovation with ethical considerations, creating solutions that enhance our lives without adverse consequences.
Inspiration can come from anywhere – nature, architecture, everyday objects, and even conversations. I stay curious and open-minded, constantly observing and absorbing the world around me.
My design style is all about simplicity. An interface should do exactly what it’s meant to do, no more, no less. I believe in minimalism and clarity, ensuring that every element serves a purpose and enhances the user experience.
I live in Denmark, and the minimalist design philosophy here greatly influences my work. Danish design emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and elegance, which aligns perfectly with my own design principles. The clear and effective communication seen in our road signs is a prime example of how minimal design can be incredibly powerful.
I’ve mostly been an in-house designer, closely collaborating with stakeholders on multiple projects. This approach allows me to deeply understand the company’s goals and create solutions that align with their vision.
Companies should look for designers who are passionate about their craft and bring a unique perspective. Effective communication and a willingness to understand and align with the company’s vision are crucial traits in a good designer.
My design process is structured yet flexible. I start by identifying the most significant pain points in the user experience and focus on solving those first. I create mood boards, sketch ideas, and iterate continuously, always keeping the user at the center of my process.
HomePod, Wii Remote, USB-C, my aluminium-framed bed, and LEGO MINDSTORMS.
My day starts with a morning walk to clear my mind. I spend the first part of my workday reviewing and iterating on designs. Afternoons are usually dedicated to meetings and collaborating with my team. In the evening, I take some time to relax and find inspiration through various activities like reading or playing video games.
Focus on what you’re passionate about. Don’t try to fit into a mold of what you think companies want. Your unique perspective and passion are what will set you apart. Always be curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
Positives include the satisfaction of creating something that improves people’s lives and the constant opportunity for creativity. Negatives can be the emotional ups and downs of the design process and the pressure to constantly innovate.
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
The most important skill is understanding what you’re passionate about and how you can bring that to the table. Additionally, empathy, care, creativity, and the ability to communicate effectively are crucial.
My toolbox includes software like Sketch, Figma, and Adobe Creative Suite. I also rely on physical sketchbooks for brainstorming and mood boards for inspiration. Books and online resources are invaluable for staying updated with the latest design trends.
I manage my time by breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable pieces and prioritizing the most impactful ones. Staying organized and setting clear goals helps me maintain focus and productivity.
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the project. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the scope and iteration cycles involved.
People often ask how I come up with design ideas and stay creative. My answer is that inspiration is everywhere, and staying curious and observant is key.
Working at LEGO early in my career was a transformative experience. It taught me how to navigate complex projects with various stakeholders and deepened my understanding of creating designs that resonate with users.
This is confidential.
I prefer designing for complex problems that require a blend of physical and digital solutions. These projects challenge me to think holistically and create cohesive user experiences.
I aim to continue exploring the intersection of physical and digital design, pushing the boundaries of user experience. I’m excited about the potential of emerging technologies and their impact on design.
I often work as part of a team, collaborating with other designers, developers, and stakeholders. However, I also value solo time to deeply focus on design problems and generate ideas.
Due to confidentiality, I cannot share any information.
You can find my contact information on my portfolio site: caglar.co.
Yes, I believe that a designer’s role is not just to create beautiful interfaces but to solve real problems. Our work should always aim to improve the user experience and positively impact the world.
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