We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Ana Banić Göttlicher and Ivana Peko ("ABGAIP").
Ana Banić Göttlicher is an independent professional artist at the Croatian Freelance Artists Association whose work is recognized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Croatia. With more than 40 domestic and international exhibitions and awards, studio has been working in the field of product design and visual communication design for more than 20 years. Works in the field of industrial design are for clients and self-initiated projects accompanied by production. One of the most significant work is Elen Leaf, HEP, solar electric vehicle charging station, winner of the IF design Award in the field of architecture and the award of the Croatian Designers Association for product design. Significant works are in the field of Graphic Design, Interior Design, Illustration, Packaging Design, Logo Design, Industrial Design, Visual Design, Brand Design, and Print Design. Ivana Peko is a professional artist with more than 20 years of experience in the field of industrial design and visual graphic design, close work with multidisciplinary teams and experienced in monitoring product development from the initial stage to the final product. Narrow specialization in total design of all kind of vessels, external appearance and interior of motor boats, taxi boats, tourist submarines, passenger motor and sailing vessels, motor yachts and mega yachts.
Ana Banić Göttlicher and Ivana Peko Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Ana Banić Göttlicher and Ivana Peko.
Ana Banić Göttlicher and Ivana Peko Design - Gla Gla Educational Puzzle
Designer Interview of Ana Banić Göttlicher and Ivana Peko:
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?
ABGAIP : I graduated in design from the Faculty of Architecture and began working in design and conceptual art, such as installations for various artistic and dance projects, during my studies. What made you become an artist/designer? My passion for design and painting has been present since my earliest preschool days. Although I couldn’t grasp what design was back then, its elements were already a part of my life. Have you always wanted to be a designer? It’s hard to say whether I’ve always wanted to be a designer. I believe I gradually recognized the importance and influence of design on everyday life.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
ABGAIP : The studio specializes in multidisciplinary design, ranging from visual identities, brand design, and packaging, to congress and conference design, as well as product design, modeling, and rendering of both smaller functional objects and larger ones.
DI: What is "design" for you?
ABGAIP : For me, design is the art of solving problems creatively, blending functionality and aesthetics to improve everyday life and communication.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
ABGAIP : It's hard to say which type of design I love the most; every field within design has its own advantages.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
ABGAIP : My favorite design is the canopy and electric car charging station installed in Zagreb. It is perhaps one of the more technically complex projects I have worked on, and its aesthetic component is on par with its functionality.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
ABGAIP : A logo for a theater.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
ABGAIP : Wood and paper, also textile / printing and making textile objects
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
ABGAIP : It depends on the day and the project.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
ABGAIP : I focus on balancing functionality, aesthetics, and the needs of the user, ensuring the design effectively communicates its purpose while being visually appealing.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
ABGAIP : When I design, I feel a mix of excitement, curiosity, and fulfillment, as each project is an opportunity to solve problems creatively and bring ideas to life.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
ABGAIP : When my designs are realized, I feel a deep sense of pride, satisfaction, and joy, knowing that my vision has come to life and can positively impact others.
DI: What makes a design successful?
ABGAIP : A successful design effectively solves the problem it was created for, resonates with its intended audience, and strikes the right balance between functionality, aesthetics, and user experience.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
ABGAIP : When judging a design, I first consider its functionality and how well it meets the needs of the user. Then, I look at its visual appeal, clarity, and how effectively it communicates the intended message or purpose.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
ABGAIP : From my point of view, designers have the responsibility to create solutions that are sustainable, ethically produced, and mindful of the environment. They should also consider the social impact of their work, ensuring that their designs are inclusive, accessible, and contribute positively to society.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
ABGAIP : The design field is constantly evolving, driven by advancements in technology, sustainability, and changing social needs. The future of design will likely be more interdisciplinary, with an emphasis on innovation, digital integration, and environmental responsibility. Designers will play a key role in shaping solutions for global challenges, balancing creativity with functionality and ethical considerations.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
ABGAIP : Zagreb Design Week in Jadran film, Zagreb, Croatia, 2024. My nest exhibition is going to be held when opportunity arrives.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
ABGAIP : My design inspiration comes from various sources, including nature, architecture, art, and everyday life. I often draw ideas from observing patterns, colors, and structures around me. To feed my creativity, I stay curious and open-minded, exploring new environments, engaging with different art forms, and collaborating with others.
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?
ABGAIP : I would describe my design style as minimalist, functional, and concept-driven, with a focus on clean lines, simplicity, and clarity. I gravitate towards this style because I believe that less is more and that design should communicate effectively without unnecessary complexity. The main characteristics of my style include attention to detail, balance, and an emphasis on user experience. My approach to design involves deeply understanding the project’s context, user needs, and the desired emotional impact, always striving for harmony between aesthetics and functionality.
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?
ABGAIP : I live in Croatia, and I do feel that the cultural heritage of my country influences my designs. The rich history, traditional art, and local craftsmanship often inspire elements of my work, blending contemporary design with cultural nuances. A significant pro of living in Croatia is the deep connection to history and natural beauty, which provides a unique foundation for creativity. However, one of the cons is the lack of resources, which can sometimes make it challenging to implement more ambitious or cutting-edge designs. Despite this, I believe limitations often foster creativity and innovation.
DI: How do you work with companies?
ABGAIP : When working with companies, I start by understanding their brand, goals, and target audience. I collaborate closely with them to ensure that the design aligns with their vision and strategic objectives. The process typically includes research, brainstorming, concept development, and regular feedback loops to refine the design. I prioritize open communication and flexibility to adapt to the company’s needs while maintaining a strong focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
ABGAIP : Honestly, it's based on the materials provided, experience, and also my instinct on how well the candidate would fit into the team. But it is more complex than that.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
ABGAIP : My design process begins with understanding the project’s goals, target audience, and constraints. I start by researching and gathering inspiration to develop a clear concept. Then, I move on to sketching or brainstorming multiple ideas, followed by refining the best concepts. I focus on creating a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Once the design direction is clear, I create detailed drafts, prototypes, or mockups, depending on the project. Feedback is crucial, so I iterate and adjust the design based on client input. Finally, I ensure that the design is polished and ready for implementation, with attention to every detail. Communication and collaboration are key throughout the process.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
ABGAIP : Lamp, water heater, dishware, tablecloth and bed
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
ABGAIP : I work, take care of my child, and in my free time, I spend a lot of time talking on the phone with friends. I also try to find moments for myself to recharge, whether it's through reading, going for a walk, or working on creative projects. Balancing work, family, and personal time can be challenging, but I make an effort to stay organized and enjoy the little moments throughout the day.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
ABGAIP : Just be brave and yourself, with much respect, first for your self, then for others.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
ABGAIP : From my perspective, some positives of being a designer include the ability to express creativity, solve problems in innovative ways, and have a direct impact on how people experience the world through design. It’s rewarding to see your work come to life and positively influence users or clients. However, there are some negatives as well. The pressure to constantly innovate and meet deadlines can be stressful. Working with clients or stakeholders who have different visions can sometimes be challenging. Additionally, the balance between creativity and practicality can be difficult, especially when working within strict constraints or budgets.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
ABGAIP : Simple and based on solid concept.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
ABGAIP : I would say creativity and problem-solving.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
ABGAIP : I use Adobe suite, Rhinoceros, Keyshot, Autocad, external drives, paper sources and samples, different platforms as inspiration etc.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
ABGAIP : To manage my time effectively, I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance. I break down larger projects into smaller, manageable steps and set clear goals for each stage. Additionally, I try to stay flexible and adjust my schedule if unexpected challenges arise, ensuring I can meet deadlines without compromising the quality of the design.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
ABGAIP : It all depends on the project.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
ABGAIP : What do you think?
DI: What was your most important job experience?
ABGAIP : Every project is a new experience so it's very hard to say.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
ABGAIP : All about my clients can be found on my web-page. Always fair and supportive.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
ABGAIP : Since I work in various fields of design, it’s truly difficult to highlight just one.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
ABGAIP : My future plans involve continuing to explore new design challenges and expanding my skills across different areas. I aim to work on more interdisciplinary projects, where design intersects with technology and sustainability. I also plan to further refine my approach to creating impactful, user-centered designs.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
ABGAIP : I typically handle everything on my own, but for more complex projects, I sometimes involve others.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
ABGAIP : Currently, I’m mainly working on wonderful conference design projects, and I look forward to every opening and my participation in them.
DI: How can people contact you?
ABGAIP : e-mail: anabanic@4n4design.com
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
ABGAIP : No, thank you.