Interview with Sanaz Hassannezhad

My passion for design started at an early age, inspired by how objects function and impact users' lives. I formalized this interest through my education in industrial design and hands-on projects. My desire to solve problems creatively is what drives me in this field​.

I prioritize sustainability, functionality, and user experience. I use a combination of design research and digital tools like 3D and rendering alongside physical prototypes to refine designs, ensuring they’re both practical and aesthetically engaging​.

Excitement arises during the ideation phase, but seeing the final design come together brings immense satisfaction. I feel fulfilled when a design solves a problem and connects emotionally with users

In addition to design, my skills in project management, collaboration, and research have been crucial. Further more, I am an artist and photographer, and Art alwase was helpful for me to have diffrent view of everything, and it made me more creative and effective.

I aim to grow my sustainable fashion brand, focusing on upcycled, emotionally meaningful products. My dream project is creating a sustainable fashion product and home decor line using recycled textiles, merging fashion and furniture design​.

Patience is key. Stay curious and open to experimentation. Embrace challenges—they will shape you. The best advice I received was do nt give up! Consistency and adaptability are vital​.

Focusing on the user’s needs and remaining adaptable to new technologies are essential practices. Be mindful of sustainability in your work, and always seek to innovate.

I start my day by reading design news and checking ongoing project statuses espasialy in AI fild on social media. Then start doing ideation, sketching and design for myself. and some times client meetings, and collaborating with developers or engineers.​

I stay updated by attending design events and reading industry reports. While trends are informative, I balance them with my personal design style, ensuring longevity and relevance in my projects​.

Good design balances aesthetics, functionality, and user satisfaction. I focus on solving real-world problems while keeping user experience and innovation at the core​.

I know a design is ready when all functional, emotional, and aesthetic goals are met. However, I always leave room for iteration and improvement based on feedback and changing needs​.

My proudest project is my sustainable fashion line, which turns unuseable garments into bespoke, functional pieces. This project reflects my belief in zero waste and emotional design​.

I admire Donald Norman for his human-centered design philosophy, especially how he bridges usability with emotional design. Karim Rashid inspires me with his futuristic, fluid aesthetic and focus on democratizing design. I’m also drawn to the work of Patricia Urquiola, whose innovative use of materials and playfulness with form bring a fresh perspective to furniture and interiors. These designers not only push boundaries but also maintain a strong connection to how their designs enhance everyday experiences.

Living in London, a city rich in cultural diversity, greatly influences my lifestyle and work. I draw inspiration from my Iranian culture and art, which emphasize intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and deep storytelling. This background shapes my design philosophy, allowing me to blend traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics.

I emphasize collaboration, clear communication, and flexibility. I look for partners who share my commitment to sustainability and innovation, and I value creating a positive impact through my work​.

As a designer, I support sustainability and actively mentor young designers, contributing through pro bono projects that align with my values of eco-consciousness and community improvement. Additionally, I prioritize customer-centered design to meet user needs effectively, which can positively influence user behavior. This approach not only enhances individual experiences but also fosters a broader societal impact through behavior design, promoting healthier and more sustainable choices within the community.

Participating in the A’ Design Award has boosted my visibility and credibility, allowed me to connect with global talents, and provided inspiration for continuous improvement in my craft​.

My motivation to design comes from a desire to solve problems and improve people's lives through innovative and user-centered solutions. I became a designer to combine my passion for creativity and functionality, making a positive impact on the world.

I chose to become a designer. It has always been a personal aspiration driven by my interest in art, creativity, and problem-solving.

I specialize in industrial design, with experience in product design and development. I wish to design more sustainable products that contribute to environmental conservation and social well-being and also I'm crazy about behavior design.

I never thinking I'm a design legend, But I will tell to young designers should focus on continuous learning, gaining hands-on experience, and building a strong portfolio. Networking with industry professionals and staying updated with design trends is also crucial.

A good designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing designs, while a great designer goes beyond by innovating and pushing the boundaries of design to create impactful and lasting solutions.

A good design is one that meets user needs, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. It solves a problem effectively and enhances the user's experience. I evaluate good design based on its usability, innovation, sustainability, and overall impact that value it adds to users' lives.

Good design enhances the user experience, improves functionality, and can lead to better economic outcomes and adds value to products and services. Investing in good design leads to better user satisfaction, brand loyalty, and long-term success.

If I had the time, I would design innovative solutions for mentally disabled people like ADHD, Autistic, Anxiety and depression and etc, to focusing on improving their quality of life through functional products.

My dream project is to design a product help to change wrong behavior and habits and replace them with healthy and correct behaviors and habits.

My secret recipe for success in design includes a combination of creativity, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of user needs. My secret ingredient is persistence and a willingness to iterate and improve.

Every single designers are brilliant inspiration for me, because each one them have different attitude and style. and I can learn different things of them.

I admire Nima Bavardi, young and smart and creative Iranian designer.

It's not self explanatory if I say that most of my design are great, because I always seek to solve need and solve a problem for users. for example one of my greatest designs is a product developed during my dissertation, aimed at helping cure anxiety disorders. Its effectiveness in addressing a real-world problem and its innovative use of technology and user-centered design principles make it great.

To become better designers, people should focus on continuous learning, seeking diverse experiences, and browsing among good designs and see different designers projects. I improved myself by pursuing advanced education, participating in competitions, and working on a variety of projects and browsing among a lot of designs every day.

If I hadn’t become a designer, I might have pursued a career in psychology or Artist like painter. fields where I can still make a positive impact on people's lives.

For me, design is every things.

My biggest supporter is myself.

Really i don't think I'm a great designer, but I try. Continuous learning, hands-on experience, and a passion for innovation have helped me a lot. Staying curious and open to new ideas has also been crucial.

Some obstacles I faced included balancing creative vision with practical constraints, overcoming self-doubt, and staying updated with rapidly evolving design technologies and trends.

Highlighting the problem, design process, and solution. Visual aids like sketches, prototypes, and interactive models can help communicate ideas effectively.

I have some to do, like Lighting design, Product design and Sustainable products.

My ultimate goal as a designer is to create products that positively impact people's lives and people know me as a good and influencer designer.

People expect innovative, high-quality designs that solve real-world problems and improve user experience and at the same time creativity.

Design helps create a better society by addressing social, economic, and environmental and ect, issues through innovative solutions. Good design can improve quality of life, accessibility, sustainability and satisfaction.

I am currently working on a project that involves designing sustainable Product. This project excites me because it combines my passion for sustainability with reusing clothes and fabric.

My all projects that gave me the most satisfaction because all combined my passion for innovation with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Especially Voyz, Because I got the A"Design Award with this.

I would like to see how AI can help design industry. In fact, collaboration between design industry and AI.

The design field is headed towards more integrated and interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating advanced technologies like AI and IoT.

The time to finalize a design project varies depending on its complexity. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, including research, prototyping, and iterations.

When starting a new design project, I begin with thorough research and understanding of the problem, followed by user research, ideation, sketching, and prototyping to develop and refine solutions.

"Design with empathy, innovate with purpose."

Design can both set trends and be influenced by them.

Technology plays a crucial role in my design process, from research, digital sketching and 3D modeling to prototyping and user testing.

I use a variety of design software including Rhinoceros, Keyshot, Adobe Photoshop, Figma, Canvas For equipment. And my favorite equipment is my sketching notebook.

Color, materials, and ambient elements play a critical role in design, influencing aesthetics, functionality, and user experience. They contribute to the overall feel and effectiveness of a product.

I wish people would ask more about the design process, the inspiration behind the designs, and the impact of the designs on users.

When I see a great design, I think about the innovation and creativity behind it.

My ideal design partner is someone who shares my passion for innovation and sustainability. I believe in co-design as it brings diverse perspectives and enhances creativity.

My professors and mentors had a significant influence on my design approach.

Books like "Designing Design" by Kenya Hara and "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman have had a profound impact on my understanding of design principles and user-centered design.

I developed my skills through formal education, practical experience, continuous learning, and by seeking feedback from mentors and peers. Participation in design competitions, exhibitions and events also helped hone my skills.

I would love to meet and discuss with Leonardo da Vinci, as his multidisciplinary approach to art and science is incredibly inspiring.

Receiving awards and recognition is an honor and validation of my work. It also provides a platform to inspire and influence positive change in the design industry.

My favorite color is yellow, favorite place is the Jungle and rar places, favorite food is Persian food, favorite season is spring, favorite thing is my sketchbook, camera and dogs.

One funny experience as a designer was when I did the final prototyping, I realized that it was not the final design and I did wrong design, So I was angry about my self because spent a lot of time and energy for wrong things, then had to start again.

Seeing the positive impact of my designs on users makes my day great. I motivate myself by setting clear goals, staying curious, and finding inspiration in everyday life.

As a child, I was always interested in drawing, painting, building things, and solving problems.

In the future, I envision advanced technologies and sustainable practices shaping the design industry. In a thousand years, we may see designs that are completely integrated with nature and driven by artificial intelligence.

As a designer I am committed to creating products that not only look good but also improve people's lives and protect people and our planet.

At the moment I am working as a freelance designer and I am Co-Founder, lead designer & creative director at Relique London.

Every thing!

Product design is my favorite, and I enjoy exploring various types of design

It is so difficult to answer this question.

It was Kids furniture.

My favorite material is wood due to its natural beauty and versatility. and my favorite technology is AI because it enhances the design process through data analysis and pattern recognition.

It's intriguing how creativity can vary from person to person. While many find it in a relaxed and focused state, for me, it's different. I discover that stress can often ignite my creativity, and I also thrive during collaborative discussions about projects and issues.

Functionality, Innovation, Usability, Problem Solving and Aesthetics

Focus: Deep concentration on the task at hand.
Joy: Excitement from bringing ideas to life.
Satisfaction: Fulfillment from creating something meaningful.
Relaxation: Feeling of calmness and flow during the creative process.

When my designs are realized, I typically experience a range of emotions:

Pride, Excitement, Gratitude and Validation

The designer, but it's depends on different factors. A successful design is functional, visually appealing, easy to use, innovative, sustainable, accessible, adaptable, and emotionally resonant.

When judging a design as good or bad, I first consider its functionality, followed by its aesthetics, usability, and innovation. These aspects help determine if the design effectively meets its intended purpose, communicates its message clearly, and provides a positive user experience.

Designers are responsible for addressing societal needs, promoting inclusivity, minimizing environmental impact, upholding ethical standards, raising awareness about social and environmental issues, and collaborating to drive positive change.

The design field is evolving rapidly due to advancements in technology, changing consumer behaviors, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity. in addition, AI has been able to find its way in the field of design, so the future of design is mixed with technology and AI.

I had few exhibitions but can't remember when was the last, but good news is, I'll have new one as soon as possible.

Daily life and people.

Functionality and problem solving.

I am living in abroad, but yes, cultural heritage of my country (Iran) affects my designs.

If they need my creativity and skill, they can in touch with me, as a freelancer designer.

Follow them on social medias, and see what is their skill and abilities. and how they are close to your style and needs.

Research: Understanding the problem or opportunity
Ideation: Generating a wide range of ideas and sketching
Concept Development: Refining and developing
Prototyping: Creating prototypes or mockups

Persian carpet, Sofa, lighting, coffee table, air fryer

My days are a mix of design, movement, and meaningful work. I start with Pilates, then split my time between my job and building ReliqueLondon, designing products, sourcing materials, or working on our brand content. In the evenings, I unwind by cooking and sketching or refining concepts. Every day blends creativity, purpose, and a bit of calm.

Just follow your dreams and never give up!

Positives:
Creativity and Self-Expression
Problem-Solving Skills
Impact and Influence
Continuous Learning and Growth
Negatives:
Tight Deadlines and Pressure
Client Expectations and Constraints
Technical Challenges and Limitations
Burnout and Mental Health

Feel the users!

Creativity, Problem-Solving, Ideation

My main tools is my creativity and emotions. But I mostly use AI tools, a sketches book and a pencil.

yes it is, but I enjoy it. And I can cancel everything because of designing! but to manage time effectively, I prioritize tasks and set deadlines.

It depends on the subject and how is big the project.

Did you design this??!!

All was important, even if it was small. Because each of them teach a lot of think to me. and made me experienced person.

Product design and prototyping

Grow my business.

Myself, but sometimes as a team. depends on project.

Yes, sustainable products.

shasanezhad@yahoo.com and www.linkedin.com/in/sanaz-hassannezhad