We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Gabriel Antunes Henke Carrano ("GAHC").
Graduated on Architecture and Urban Planning and a current Furniture Designer - highly developed skills in creating 3d models, mockups and rendering images. Defined as an adaptable, ambitious, self-motivated and confident individual, qualities that I combine with a limitless imagination and creativity. I can spend a day reading and living design, learning about materials (especially different types of woods), design history and support others really talented designers on social media. I can be easily found in a woodshop where I make myself useful to society!
Gabriel Antunes Henke Carrano Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Gabriel Antunes Henke Carrano.
Gabriel Antunes Henke Carrano Design - Pudu Pet House
Designer Interview of Gabriel Antunes Henke Carrano:
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?
GAHC : My first contact with design was in 2011 when I started architecture school. I made my own bedroom furniture from cardboard boxes, and that experience made me realize how important functionalism, aesthetics, and structure are in design. From there, I continued studying and improving my knowledge of furniture design by reading, prototyping, experimenting, and drawing. I didn’t always want to be a designer; I started wanting it when I needed it to live a better life.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
GAHC : I am an autonomous designer working from my home studio, which I call HNK—my surname without the "E's." Here, I experiment with forms, materials, and ideas that can or cannot transform into original designs. It’s a small yet meaningful setup where I pour love and respect into everything I create for my clients.
DI: What is "design" for you?
GAHC : Design is the opportunity to elevate everyday environments, enabling people to experience atmospheres with a heightened sense of engagement and emotion. It represents the harmonious convergence of functionalism and beauty—where art seamlessly intertwines with science. Much like crafting a recipe, it requires the perfect blend of practicality and personal expression, balancing technical precision with creative intuition to enrich lives.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
GAHC : I design to meet people's needs, focusing on furniture that blends innovation with traditional techniques.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
GAHC : My design crush is the LCW chair by Charles and Ray Eames. It’s beautiful, fun, well-constructed, and made of wood—the most democratic material for designers. The way the pieces support each other is essential, and it’s timeless.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
GAHC : My first design was a nightstand called Corça, made of tubular steel and freijó wood. It’s light and distinctly Brazilian.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
GAHC : Wood—the most democratic material. It’s versatile, sustainable, and connects deeply with human touch and tradition. While I prioritize working with wood, I also leverage modern technologies like 3D modeling software, CNC machines, and digital fabrication tools to push creative boundaries and explore new dimensions of design.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
GAHC : When I discover something that could be improved with adjustments, inspiration often strikes during showers, meals, or moments of mental freedom. But I know, that’s cliché—sorry!
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
GAHC : I ask myself: Is it functional? Is it unique? Is it possible? Will it be affordable? Is it going to last?
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
GAHC : A mix of love, frustration (when things don’t work), happiness after a discovery, and peace when I see my designs improve someone’s life. It’s a journey of emotions, starting with, “This would be awesome to have in my home.”
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
GAHC : Excitement, euphoria, and happiness all at once, along with a sense of accomplishment.
DI: What makes a design successful?
GAHC : A design is successful when it builds a meaningful relationship with its users.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
GAHC : Originality, respect for traditions, material usage, and affordability. A design is not good if people can’t afford it.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
GAHC : Designers must translate societal needs into functional spaces or objects—even needs society doesn’t realize it has yet. Beyond that, designers hold the power to shape sustainable futures by focusing on material longevity, production methods that minimize waste, and designs that reflect cultural respect and inclusivity. They must ensure that their work enriches lives while leaving a minimal ecological footprint.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
GAHC : Design is evolving to improve relationships and create more functional lifestyles. The future of design lies in prioritizing realistic and sustainable material usage cycles.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
GAHC : My work has been featured in two exhibitions: the Abimóvel event in Brazil and the Utopia exhibition in New York. These experiences were incredibly enriching, as they allowed me to share the narrative behind the Pudu Pet House with diverse audiences. I look forward to future exhibitions that celebrate both individuality and collaboration, showcasing how my designs can resonate with both global and local audiences. A place where I can inspire others to make a difference, showing that a Latino gay man can create impactful designs!
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
GAHC : My inspiration comes from nature, Brazil’s unique landscapes, local materials, and traditions. I also stay informed and inspired by diving into newsletters, books, mood boards, and even public spaces. Often, unexpected places like church ceremonies or simple interactions spark new ideas, keeping my creative process dynamic and ever-evolving.
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?
GAHC : I call my style "Brasilidade": a celebration of Brazilian traditions, materials, and manufacturing processes. It’s characterized by a harmonious blend of modern innovation and deep respect for cultural heritage, reviving Brazil’s cultural pride in every creation.
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?
GAHC : I live in São Miguel Arcanjo, São Paulo. Brazilian culture, with its vibrant diversity and deep-rooted traditions, provides endless inspiration for my work. It’s a double-edged sword, though—the richness of local resources and heritage fuels my creativity, but the high production costs and logistical challenges can sometimes be restrictive. Nevertheless, these challenges push me to innovate and adapt, reinforcing my connection to the culture I strive to represent.
DI: How do you work with companies?
GAHC : Currently, I have a curatorship office doing this bridge between me and the furniture industry. I have to say a big thanks to Victor Leite and all people on Mollde design office.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
GAHC : Listen to designers and avoid defensive postures. Respect their process, don’t waste really valuable resources, and trust their expertise.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
GAHC : I start with simple mood board references, then identify a motive for the design. From there, I create drawings, cardboard models, and conceptual art, explore various forms and structures, refine details, and produce technical drawings. It’s a straightforward yet iterative process—the usual. I’m not trying to reinvent any methods; I listen to people who have been in this job longer than I have.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
GAHC : My armchair where I spend part of my day reading, sketching, and checking other designers' work. My bed—a good night’s sleep is always a priority. My old 3D printer, which doubles as a stand for my fan during summer. My office table, of course. The nightstand I designed, with a soft top to avoid injuries when turning off my alarm.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
GAHC : Wake up > Running routine > Read a design book > Check the news > Drawing session > Meetings > Create new drawings > Consult other professionals involved in projects > Attend restoration classes > Reflect on "what I learned today" in my diary.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
GAHC : Read, read a little bit more, and discuss what you read.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
GAHC : The positives include the power to create, being part of people’s lives, the ability to work while listening to music, and the opportunity to improve relationships. On the downside, there are challenges like high production costs, the complexity of detailing intricate designs—especially highly organic shapes—and, perhaps the most difficult, dealing with egos within the industry.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
GAHC : If it’s not useful for one, it’s not useful for anyone. I strive to design pieces that are inclusive and accessible. Leaving any part of society feeling excluded by my work is something I take very seriously and work hard to avoid.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
GAHC : Imagination and good communication.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
GAHC : Paper, pencil, crayons, mouse, 3Ds Max, SketchUp, Illustrator, Rhino, Solidworks. cardboard, wire, glue, wood, a manual saw, more glue, glasses, an iPad, headphones, and lots of good brazilian coffee.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
GAHC : By meticulously planning every step using Google Sheets.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
GAHC : If it depends solely on me, about two months. If machinery or others are involved, it can take longer.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
GAHC : “What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?” (Yes, that’s the real answer. And Im really sorry!)
DI: What was your most important job experience?
GAHC : During the summer of 2015, I spent two months at USC’s architecture office working with Gail Borden. That experience taught me invaluable lessons and became the foundation for everything I’ve built since then.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
GAHC : I like to think of them as people with really good taste.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
GAHC : I love designing with purpose and tailoring designs to individual needs and routines. This approach ensures both uniqueness and functionality. While mass production is a reality in my daily work, it doesn’t mean I can’t address specific needs. Every experience in life is collective, and I aim to reflect that philosophy in my designs.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
GAHC : I’m preparing to become a professor and teach the next generation of designers. Additionally, I’m working on a unique furniture line inspired by Brazilian folklore.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
GAHC : I consult impressive advisors, but my designs start with me, a pencil, and my notebook.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
GAHC : I’m working on designs featuring organic shapes in a sophisticated way while keeping concepts simple. However, details are under wraps for now.
DI: How can people contact you?
GAHC : By my Instagram! It's 2025, people! @henke.gabriel By the way.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
GAHC : Democratic design is vital. If we don’t prioritize accessibility, we’ll end up designing only for museums.