We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Azadeh Gholizadeh ("AG").
Azadeh Gholizadeh is an award-winning designer that helps make the World a better place with their original and innovative creations and advanced design works.
Azadeh Gholizadeh Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Azadeh Gholizadeh.
Azadeh Gholizadeh Design - Sister's Ice Cream
Azadeh Gholizadeh Design - Pure Juice Packaging
Designer Interview of Azadeh Gholizadeh:
DI: 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?
AG : From the very early stages of my life, I had a burning desire to become a designer and I was encouraged by my parents to design as much as possible. In fact, I was only an 11 or 12-year girl when I started to go to a painting class, then I went to high school after 3 years and beginning to learn graphic design where I decided to continue this major in university. All the happening that I've gone through which has shaped my personality and made the woman that I'm right now. Now I have an MA in Graphic design and also I'm a teacher in university while I've been working in my own studio.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
AG : It is a very nice cozy studio with a good atmosphere where my colleagues are very friendly and we are making quite an effort to give the best experience possible to our client. due to the fact that I was grown up in an artistic family, I live among many Graphic designers, illustrator and motion graphist, truth be told, my family members are my colleague, as a result, I have a close-knit cooprators because of that I really adore my studio.
DI: What is "design" for you?
AG : It is to me is very much like being able to breathe deeply without which I can not live.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
AG : I'm really into challenging design in which I should try to find a reasonable solution for faulty designs, you know it makes me I'm still alive, cheers me up.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
AG : I've always been into things that are innovative and far more creative, I'm really enthusiastic about packaging structures, I mean those which have had a solution for packaging problems in terms of usability or being user-friendly. you know problem-solving is my thing and that's why I love such designs.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
AG : It was about a couple of years ago, precisely when I was 19. The first thing that was designed by me was a set of design including label for an oil Büttel the Logo , and statinery design
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
AG : My favourite material is without a doubt Paper which allows me to touch and test every thing from the beginning and not to forget that being environmentally is another reason why I'm into paper as a material.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
AG : Specially when I'm free enough to deal with a wide variety of designs barriers, I mean I'm not busy with my life and its challenges. When I try to look the world through rose colored spectacles is exactly the moment that I can be much more creative. Being careless about the rules and regulare habits in design can be one of the ways of being innovative.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
AG : Simplicity, expressiveness, and creativity in design are the most important aspects of a design for me which Leads to customer attraction.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
AG : I feel that totally living in another world without stress and any negative energy which helps me discover new aspects of my project.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
AG : It is such a sweet victory after a hard battle and this is the time when I can lean into my chair and take a deep breath and tell myself you've done it.
DI: What makes a design successful?
AG : A good design is effective and efficient in fulfilling its purpose. It relies on as few external factors and inputs as possible, and these are easy to measure and manipulate to achieve an expected other output. A good design is always the simplest possible working solution.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
AG : It is not an easy task, but mixing talent with an ability to communicate is what makes a remarkable design stand out from the rest.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
AG : The designer plays a complex role in modern industrial societies. Besides its explicit practical functions, the design also has implicit social functions. Designers not only create useful products and images, but they also produce and reproduce cultural meanings through those products and images which can be a powerful tool for saving the environment and enhancing society.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
AG : The future of design is going to be elevated to new heights by being fused with augmented reality and eventually, 3D printing. Augmented reality and virtual reality experiences allow people to get inside the experience whether it's for recreational, educational or occupational purposes.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
AG : My last exhibition was on 31st October in Ukraine, Dnipro and about the future one, I should add the fact that no one knows what lies in the future but I hope to hold a new one in the foreseeable future.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
AG : Sometimes the best thing I can do is push myself outside of our comfort zone. Challenge me to try a new medium, something that isn’t quite my “thing” or “style.” I notice how this might challenge my usual creative process. Sometimes I take the time to notice the world around me. I notice the small things, the patterns, and shapes in the trees, the architecture. I let my mind take it all in to help me foster a new perspective.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
AG : My design style is best described as minimalistic and modern, with a focus on clean lines, functional simplicity, and thoughtful use of color and texture. I’m drawn to the idea that less can say more, and I find that minimalism allows the core message or purpose of a design to shine without unnecessary distractions. What made me explore this style is the clarity it brings. I love how minimalism creates space—not just visually but emotionally—allowing designs to connect with people in an authentic and impactful way. It also challenges me to think critically about every element I include, ensuring it has a purpose and adds value. The main characteristics of my style include a balanced use of negative space, harmonious proportions, and modern typography. I pay close attention to detail, using materials and finishes that enhance the tactile experience of a design. My approach is rooted in understanding the essence of what I’m designing for—whether it’s a brand, product, or concept—and translating that into something visually and functionally meaningful. For me, design is about problem-solving with creativity. I aim to craft solutions that are not only visually engaging but also resonate with the audience on an emotional level. My process involves research, exploration, and refinement, ensuring that the final outcome feels both fresh and intentional.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
AG : I currently live in Berlin, Germany, a city that deeply resonates with my appreciation for modernity and minimalistic design. Berlin offers a unique environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and simplicity, which aligns perfectly with my design philosophy. At the same time, I remain profoundly inspired by my cultural heritage from Iran. Persian culture, with its noble, pure, and sophisticated artistry, is deeply rooted in my life and work. It represents an art form without hypocrisy, one that values authenticity and harmony. These qualities often find their way into my designs, whether subtly or overtly. I love how Berlin complements this with its focus on modernism and functionality. It’s a city that thrives on clean lines, fresh ideas, and innovation, which encourages me to refine and modernize my inspirations. Yet, I sometimes miss the distinct air and essence of my hometown in Iran—those intangible cultural nuances that only a native can fully understand. Living in Berlin provides me the advantage of accessing global trends and a multicultural audience while still carrying the deep-rooted elegance of Persian artistry. This combination is both a challenge and a blessing, as it allows me to merge tradition and modernity seamlessly in my work.
DI: How do you work with companies?
AG : When working with companies, I always aim to understand their vision, values, and goals to ensure that my designs align with their objectives. I like to maintain open communication throughout the process, sharing initial concepts, gathering feedback, and refining the design until it’s the perfect fit. Whether it's a new product launch or a rebranding effort, I focus on creating designs that will resonate with the target audience while enhancing the company’s overall identity.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
AG : I suggest that companies focus on selecting a designer whose style aligns with their brand values. It's important to look at a designer's portfolio and previous work to gauge their approach to problem-solving and creativity. A good designer should be someone who listens to the client, understands their needs, and brings fresh, innovative ideas to the table. Companies should also ensure there is a good cultural fit and open communication throughout the project to foster collaboration and produce the best results.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
AG : The design is the result of our different outlook on the environment and a desire to seeking unspoil aspects of a subject or a product. My design process begins with thorough research—understanding the product, its market, and the brand’s values. I then explore conceptual sketches and ideas, focusing on minimalism and functionality. I typically test my designs through prototypes or visual simulations to ensure they work in real-world scenarios. Once the concept is clear, I refine the design, balancing aesthetics with usability. Feedback is essential, so I make sure to involve the client and make necessary adjustments before finalizing the design.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
AG : Some of my favorite design items at home include: A minimalist sofa with clean lines. A sleek desk lamp with a modern design. Simple ceramic vases in neutral tones. An ergonomic office chair with a minimal aesthetic. A series of abstract art prints that align with my design sensibilities.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
AG : A typical day starts early with some quiet time to gather my thoughts before heading into my workspace. I usually begin by reviewing my project list, prioritizing tasks, and engaging with clients to discuss updates. Throughout the day, I work on design iterations, communicate with suppliers, or collaborate with other creatives. I make sure to take short breaks for inspiration, and by the evening, I reflect on the day’s progress before winding down.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
AG : My advice would be to stay true to your creative instincts but also be open to learning and evolving. Experiment with new ideas, and don’t be afraid of making mistakes, as they are part of the learning process. Seek feedback, build a strong portfolio, and develop your unique voice in design. Stay curious and never stop exploring what excites you about design.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
AG : The positives of being a designer include the freedom to express creativity and solve problems in innovative ways. It’s rewarding to see ideas transform into real-world designs that people interact with. However, there are challenges, like tight deadlines and balancing client expectations with personal design principles. Design can also be isolating at times, as it often requires long hours of focused work.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
AG : My golden rule in design is to prioritize simplicity and clarity. The best designs are those that are visually striking while remaining functional and intuitive. I always aim to create designs that not only look good but also serve a clear purpose and connect with people.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
AG : For me, the most important skills are creativity, problem-solving, and communication. Creativity allows you to develop fresh ideas, while problem-solving ensures those ideas are practical and effective. Good communication is crucial to collaborate with clients, team members, and suppliers throughout the design process.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
AG : My primary tools are Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) for digital design work. I also use Sketch and Figma for UI/UX design projects. In terms of hardware, I rely on a MacBook Pro and a Wacom tablet for precise drawing. For inspiration, I often turn to design books, architecture, and art galleries, as well as online platforms like Behance and Dribbble.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
AG : Time management is key to staying on track. I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and complexity. I also break larger projects into smaller tasks, which makes it easier to track progress. To stay productive, I use tools like Trello or Asana to organize my workflow and ensure I’m focusing on the most critical tasks first.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
AG : The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the design. A simple product packaging project could take a few weeks, while a more intricate design—such as a brand identity or product launch—may take several months. Each stage, from research to final tweaks, requires time and careful attention to detail.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
AG : The most frequently asked question is often about my design process—specifically, how I begin a new project and what inspires my work. Clients and fellow designers are always curious about how I translate ideas into finished designs.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
AG : My most important job experience was when I worked on a project that challenged me to combine innovation with tradition. It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, leading to a breakthrough in my approach to minimalist design. It was a pivotal moment that shaped my creative philosophy.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
AG : I work primarily with companies in the food industry and media companies. My clients are often looking for fresh, modern design solutions that resonate with contemporary audiences while reflecting their unique brand values.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
AG : I enjoy packaging design the most, as it combines both functional and creative elements. Packaging not only serves a practical purpose but also needs to engage consumers on an emotional level. I find it exciting to create designs that can tell a story while also being visually appealing and functional.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
AG : In the future, I hope to continue pushing the boundaries of minimalist design and explore more sustainable solutions. I’d like to collaborate on larger projects that allow me to integrate design with technology, creating more interactive and user-centered experiences.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
AG : I prefer to work independently on the initial concepts but I also collaborate with a team of specialists, such as illustrators, photographers, and developers, when the project requires it. This allows me to focus on the overall vision while benefiting from the expertise of others.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
AG : I’m currently working on a new project that explores the intersection of packaging design and augmented reality. It’s an exciting challenge that combines my minimalist style with the potential for interactive, tech-driven design.
DI: How can people contact you?
AG : People can contact me via my website, where I provide my contact details and showcase my portfolio. I’m also available on LinkedIn and Instagram for direct communication and updates on my work.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
AG : I’d like to emphasize the importance of constantly evolving as a designer. The design world is ever-changing, and it’s important to stay curious, adaptable, and open to new ideas. Whether through collaborations or independent projects, I’m excited to continue exploring new creative challenges.