Interview with Nadav Rikover
Nadav is a UX design specialist and a product design consultant with over 16 years of experience in various creative fields.
Designer of the Day Interview
29 December 2024
I’ve been working in design for over 20 years, having started as a web designer in the 90s when I was a teenager. I later pursued formal education in design, earning a Bachelor of Design degree, which helped solidify my foundation. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with prominent companies such as Google, Stanley Black & Decker, and Siemens, and collaborating with startups like Innoviz, Iguazio, and more.' I also founded my agency, Rikover & Co., through which I provide UX, product, and design consulting services. The mix of academic and industry experience has shaped my approach to design and allowed me to work on projects that have real impact.
My journey into design was driven by a natural inclination toward creativity and problem-solving. As a teenager, I was fascinated with the possibilities of the web, and that passion led me to start designing websites in the late 90s. This interest grew, and I pursued a formal design education to refine my skills. Along the way, I was inspired by the work of designers who focused on functionality and user experience, which guided my focus on designing for people. The combination of personal passion and exposure to design's power to improve lives drove me to become a designer.
When designing, I prioritize user-centered design, clarity of communication, and usability. For me, design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making an impact by solving real problems. My approach blends both hands-on and digital methods. While I use digital tools for prototyping and refining, I still appreciate the process of sketching and building mock-ups when necessary. I try to keep designs simple and intuitive, ensuring that users are always at the center of the experience.
The most exciting part of the design process for me is the initial concept phase when ideas start to take shape. There’s a certain thrill in envisioning how the design will evolve. Throughout the process, I also feel a sense of satisfaction as I solve challenges and refine details. Ultimately, the greatest pleasure comes when the design feels “right”—when the user experience aligns with the vision, and I can see the impact it has on real people.
Apart from my design education, I believe my background in technology and my early web design experiences have been crucial in shaping my approach. I have a deep appreciation for how design interacts with technology, and I’m always thinking about how to balance user needs with technical possibilities. Additionally, working with diverse clients and industries has expanded my perspective, allowing me to bring new insights and solutions to each project.
I am constantly learning and seeking new opportunities to challenge myself. My future plans involve expanding my design consultancy and working on larger-scale projects that push the boundaries of user experience design. My dream project would be to work on a design that significantly impacts a social issue, whether through technology, accessibility, or sustainability. I hope to continue growing as a designer and make meaningful contributions to the world through my work.
For new designers, my advice is to focus on building a strong foundation in the fundamentals—understanding user needs, clarity of communication, and usability are key. Don’t be afraid to fail or iterate, as learning from mistakes is a crucial part of the design process. Build a portfolio that reflects your process and growth. And finally, always seek mentorship and feedback from more experienced designers.
For fellow professionals, my advice is to stay curious and continue pushing yourself to explore new tools and techniques. Don’t settle into a comfort zone. It's easy to fall into the trap of relying on what you know, but good design requires continuous innovation. At the same time, always stay grounded in your design principles—simplicity, empathy, and effectiveness should always be at the core of your work.
A typical day for me begins with reviewing emails and project updates. I spend the early hours focusing on deep work—whether it's designing, sketching, or working through user research. Later in the day, I meet with clients or team members to discuss progress and get feedback. I like to carve out time for personal learning, whether it's reading design blogs or exploring new tools. Even on quieter days, I find joy in small moments—like solving a tricky design problem or receiving positive feedback from a client.
While I stay aware of current design trends, I don’t base my work purely on what’s popular. Instead, I focus on timeless design principles and tailor my approach to each project’s unique needs. However, I believe trends can help spark new ideas, so I make it a point to attend design events, follow thought leaders, and explore new design tools. Ultimately, I strive to create work that is both contemporary and timeless.
Good design is intuitive, accessible, and solves a real problem. It feels natural and effortless to use, without unnecessary complications. When evaluating a product, I ask myself if it meets the user’s needs effectively, if it’s easy to navigate, and if it delivers an engaging experience. The best designs are those that enhance the user’s life without being noticed—they’re seamless and functional.
I consider a design ready when it has passed through several rounds of feedback, testing, and iteration. The final design should feel complete, with no loose ends or unaddressed issues. At that point, I ask myself whether it’s truly fulfilling the user’s needs and aligning with the project’s goals. Once that’s achieved, I feel confident that the design is ready to be launched, though I always keep an open mind for improvements in future updates.
One of my most significant works is the website for the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics. It was a major challenge because it involved presenting complex data in a way that was accessible and understandable to the general public. It was both a design and an engineering feat, requiring extensive collaboration with developers and data experts. The success of this project was a proud moment for me, as it combined function with clarity and delivered real value to the community.
I admire the work of Dieter Rams for his minimalist approach and commitment to functionality. His designs have a timeless quality that still resonates today. If I could talk to any designer, I’d love to sit down with him and understand how he developed his design philosophy.
I’m based in Israel, and my culture certainly influences my design work. The country’s diversity and rich history provide a unique backdrop for creativity. Music and art are integral to my life, and they often inspire my design thinking. Good design, in my view, is essential for societal progress—it creates more inclusive, accessible, and effective environments. My personal life is a balance of work, family, and creativity, and I constantly draw inspiration from all aspects of life.
I foster a culture of collaboration and transparency in my work. I believe in clear communication with clients and team members, which allows us to deliver high-quality work that meets everyone’s expectations. I’m always looking for partners who share a passion for design and who are dedicated to making a positive impact.
I believe in giving back by offering pro bono design work for non-profits and community projects. I’ve also mentored young designers and contributed to design events to support the next generation. I see design as a tool for positive social change, and I’m always looking for ways to use my skills to make a difference.
Participating in design awards like the A’ Design Award has been an incredibly positive experience. It provides a platform for recognition, helps connect me with other talented professionals, and offers valuable feedback that pushes me to grow. Design competitions can really help expand your network and elevate your work, providing exposure and fostering new opportunities. Being named Designer of the Day was a humbling experience, and it reinforced my belief in the power of great design.
Design Legend Interview
30 December 2024
I’ve been working in design for over 20 years, having started as a web designer in the 90s when I was a teenager. I later pursued formal education in design, earning a Bachelor of Design degree, which helped solidify my foundation. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with prominent companies such as Google, Intel, and Siemens, and collaborating with startups like 'The Newsroom' and 'Payem.' I also founded my own company, Rikover & Co, through which I provide UX, product, and design consulting services. The mix of academic and industry experience has shaped my approach to design and given me the opportunity to work on projects that have real impact.
I love solving problems in a way that feels intuitive and delightful for people. There's nothing quite like seeing someone use something I’ve designed and knowing it made their life easier or more enjoyable.
It was a choice driven by passion. I’ve always been drawn to creating and understanding how things work. Design felt like a natural fit.
I design user experiences, interfaces, and products, but I’d love to explore more projects that integrate storytelling, like interactive books or narrative-driven apps.
Stay curious, keep learning, and always put users first. Experiment with different tools, talk to people who use your designs, and remember that every mistake is a chance to grow.
A good designer solves problems; a great designer anticipates them and goes beyond to create something meaningful and memorable.
A good design is functional, intuitive, and delightful. If it solves a problem effectively and makes the user’s life easier or better, it’s a win.
Good design saves time, reduces frustration, and adds value to people’s lives. It’s an investment in trust, usability, and the future of any product or service.
I’d love to design tools for children to learn and explore creatively, like apps or games that nurture curiosity and critical thinking.
Creating an interactive platform that bridges storytelling, education, and design in a way that’s accessible to everyone.
Empathy. Understanding the needs and feelings of the user is the foundation of every good design decision.
Dieter Rams, Jonathan Ive, and current innovators like Don Norman inspire me with their timeless and user-focused approaches.
I love designs that are simple but powerful, like Google’s search interface or Braun’s classic product designs—both embody clarity and purpose.
One of my favorite projects was solving a complex navigation issue in a product. It’s great because it eliminates user frustration and makes the experience seamless.
Practice, feedback, and iteration are key. Talk to users, observe how they interact with your designs, and always ask, "How can this be better?"
I might have been a teacher or a writer. Both involve understanding people and telling stories, which are essential to design too.
Design is problem-solving with purpose and empathy. It’s about creating things that work, feel good, and make sense.
Mentors, colleagues, and my family have been my greatest supporters. They’ve given me guidance, encouragement, and the freedom to grow.
Curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to listen to feedback—even when it’s tough to hear.
Learning to balance creativity with practicality was a big challenge. Understanding constraints while pushing boundaries takes practice.
Tell a story—explain the problem, show your process, and highlight your design's impact.
I’m working on some exciting projects, including for the legal and real estate industries, the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics website, and a recipe website for a healthier life. Stay tuned!
To create designs that positively impact people’s lives and to help others grow in their design journeys.
Clear thinking, practical solutions, and a bit of creative magic bring it all together.
Good design makes information, tools, and opportunities accessible, enabling people to live better and work smarter.
I’m working on a project that combines AI and user interactions to let users connect with legal content in new ways. It’s exciting because it pushes the boundaries of design and technology.
Facilitating a Design Sprint for a finance tech company was deeply satisfying. It solved a major user pain point and gave the team clarity and direction in just a few days.
I’d love to see more emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity, as well as sustainable design practices that prioritize the environment.
Design is becoming more collaborative and AI-driven. Tools empower non-designers, which means a designer's role is shifting to strategy, storytelling, and creating frameworks.
It depends on the scope, but anywhere from a few weeks for a smaller project to several months for a comprehensive solution.
I always start with research: understanding the users, their needs, and the problem we’re solving. Then comes sketching out ideas and mapping the flow.
“Design for people, not for perfection.” It’s about creating something that works and resonates, not chasing an ideal.
It’s a cycle. Design shapes trends, and trends inspire new designs. The key is to balance innovation with timelessness.
Technology is both a tool and a collaborator. It enables me to prototype, test, and iterate faster, but it’s important not to let it dictate creativity.
Primarily Figma for design and collaboration.
These elements set the tone and emotion of a design. They’re critical for creating an experience that feels cohesive and engaging.
I wish more people would ask, “How did you arrive at this solution?” because the process is often as fascinating as the result.
I think about the team and the process behind it, and I feel inspired to learn something from their approach.
Someone who challenges my ideas but shares the same goals. I believe in co-design—it brings diverse perspectives and better solutions.
Mentors, clients, and users have all shaped how I approach design. Their feedback and stories fuel my growth.
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman.
Through practice, feedback, and always staying curious. Every project, no matter how small, has been a learning opportunity.
Leonardo da Vinci—his blend of art, science, and curiosity would make for an inspiring conversation.
Recognition is gratifying, but the real reward is knowing my designs make a difference. I wouldn’t call myself “famous”—just passionate about my work.
Blue, a quiet beach, sushi, spring, and brands that prioritize design and usability, like Apple.
During a workshop I facilitated, a team hilariously designed a sophisticated robot that did nothing but make tea.
Seeing progress, no matter how small, motivates me. Feedback from users always brightens my day.
Not obvious, but I was always curious and creative—drawing, building, and tinkering with everything I could get my hands on.
I imagine design will be more integrated into daily life, with AI and human creativity collaborating in ways we can’t yet imagine.
I design to make life better, one experience at a time. My goal is to empower others to create and connect through thoughtful, impactful design.
Designer Interview
29 December 2024
I started designing for the web as a teenager in the 1990s, driven by a curiosity about technology and how it could be used creatively. This early fascination with design led me to formally study it. I earned a Bachelor of Design degree, and during my time at the academy, I worked in the industry, gaining hands-on experience. I didn’t always know I’d become a designer, but the journey was a natural progression from my passion for problem-solving and creating engaging user experiences.
My company, Rikover & Co, focuses on creating meaningful digital experiences. We collaborate with startups and established companies, bringing expertise in UX, design, and product strategy. It’s all about aligning business goals with user needs to create something exceptional.
Design is the perfect blend of empathy, creativity, and functionality. It’s about understanding people’s needs and solving problems in a seamless and delightful way.
I enjoy working on complex systems that challenge me to simplify and enhance user experiences. Whether it’s a startup platform or a sports team’s digital presence, it’s the impact on the end user that excites me.
One of my favorite projects is the app and website for Hapoel Petah Tikva. It’s a blend of my personal passion for this football club since I was a teenager and design, and it allowed me to bring their digital presence to life, connecting fans with their team in an intuitive way.
The first design I created professionally was a website for a small business. It was a simple project, but it taught me the value of understanding the client’s vision and the importance of clear communication.
Any interactive products
I feel most creative in the early mornings or after engaging in conversations. Brainstorming with others often sparks ideas I wouldn’t have thought of alone, especially after I ask clients the right questions, and gather insights.
I focus on usability and emotional resonance. If a design doesn’t feel intuitive or doesn’t connect with the user, it’s not fulfilling its purpose.
Designing feels like solving a puzzle. It’s a mix of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes frustration, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see everything come together.
It’s incredibly satisfying. Seeing people interact with something you’ve created and watching it improve their experience is the ultimate reward.
A successful design solves a problem, feels intuitive, and resonates with its audience. If users barely notice the design because it just works, that’s a success.
I look at clarity, usability, and how well it meets the user’s needs. A good design communicates its purpose without unnecessary complexity.
Designers have a responsibility to create solutions that are inclusive, sustainable, and ethical. Every choice we make impacts people and the planet.
The field is moving towards personalization and AI-driven experiences. The challenge will be to balance innovation with maintaining human-centered design principles.
I don’t typically hold exhibitions; my work lives in digital spaces. However, I’m open to showcasing projects in the future if there’s an opportunity to share the process behind the work.
I draw inspiration from the world around me—nature, technology, people, and experiences. I find that staying curious and observing how things work in the real world helps spark creativity. I also feed my creativity by collaborating with others, reading, exploring new tools, and staying in tune with design trends and innovations.
My design style is minimalist, focused on clarity and user-centric experiences. Over time, I’ve gravitated toward simplicity and functional design because I believe less is more, and the user should always be the center of attention. My approach is always about solving problems in intuitive and engaging ways.
I live in Israel, and yes, the cultural heritage here absolutely influences my design approach. There’s a strong sense of community, history, and innovation that shapes the way I think about design. The pros are the constant inspiration from diverse cultures and the emphasis on creative problem-solving. The challenge, however, can be balancing traditional values with the need for modern, globalized design trends.
I collaborate closely with companies to understand their needs and vision. My approach is hands-on, ensuring that we’re aligned on the strategy, the user experience, and the final product. I believe in clear communication and iterative design to refine the work along the way.
My advice would be to look for a designer who not only has technical skills but also understands the business and user context. A good designer should be a problem-solver, willing to collaborate, and open to feedback. The best designers are those who can balance creativity with practicality and empathy.
My process starts with research and understanding the user. I then move on to wireframes and prototyping, refining the design based on feedback and testing. Finally, I focus on the details—polishing the UI and ensuring the experience is seamless and intuitive.
I enjoy having objects that are both functional and beautifully designed—such as my white living room lamp, minimalist dining chairs, pop art posters, my electric smart table, and my favorite coffee cup. Each piece serves a purpose and adds to the ambiance of my workspace.
My day usually starts with a cup of coffee and reviewing design projects. I spend a lot of time in meetings with designers and clients, brainstorming, and iterating on designs. I balance that with personal time for creativity, usually through spending time with my family or collaborating with my team.
My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because they’re the best opportunities to grow. Build a portfolio that showcases your problem-solving skills, and always keep the user at the heart of your creations.
The positives are the opportunity to impact people’s lives, solve interesting problems, and continuously learn. The negatives can be the pressure of meeting client expectations and the challenge of staying ahead in an ever-evolving field.
My golden rule is: Keep it simple, keep it clear, and always keep the user in mind. If your design isn’t intuitive and doesn’t meet the needs of the people using it, it’s not doing its job.
Apart from technical skills, empathy is key. Understanding users' needs, behaviors, and emotions allows you to design better experiences. Communication and collaboration are also essential, as design is rarely a solo endeavor.
I rely heavily on Figma. I also use tools like Slack, Toggl, and Trello for project management and Fig Jam and Google Docs for brainstorming sessions. My inspirations can be anywhere on the internet, apps, or in a physical environment - depending on the project.
Time management is all about prioritization. I break projects into smaller tasks, set deadlines, and stay focused. I also make sure to take breaks and recharge when needed, as a fresh mind leads to better design.
The time it takes can vary depending on the complexity of the project. For smaller tasks, it might take a few days, but for larger, more intricate designs, it can take weeks or even months. It’s a process of iteration and refinement.
One of the most frequently asked questions is, "How do you come up with your ideas?" I usually explain that creativity is a mix of research, experience, and collaboration.
One of my most important experiences was working on the website for the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics. This project was a significant challenge, as it required creating a platform that would present complex statistical data in an accessible and user-friendly way for the public. It taught me a lot about balancing design with functionality and accessibility, ensuring that information was both accurate and easy to navigate for a wide range of users.
I’ve worked with various startups, such as Innoviz, Iguazio, and Rail Vision, as well as larger organizations like Google, Stanley Black & Decker, and Siemens.
I love working on UX/UI design for products that impact people’s everyday lives. There’s something incredibly rewarding about solving problems and making complex systems simple to navigate.
I’m focused on continuing to collaborate with innovative companies and exploring new opportunities to teach and mentor young designers. I also want to explore more sustainability-focused design projects.
I work with a team of talented professionals, as collaboration often leads to the best results. While I lead design projects, I value input from others to ensure we create well-rounded, effective solutions.
I’m currently working on a few exciting projects, including a collaboration platform for lawyers and an AI-driven investment platform in the real estate industry. Each has its unique challenges, and I’m excited to see how they evolve.
People can contact me via my website www.rikover.com email, or LinkedIn. I’m always open to conversations about design, collaboration, and new opportunities.
I’d like to emphasize how important it is to stay true to the values that drive you as a designer—whether that’s empathy, creativity, or a passion for problem-solving. Design is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about making a positive impact.