We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Medium2 Studio ("MS").
"Medium" can refer to being in between two things, or it can refer to the medium that a message is communicated through. At Medium2 Studio, we are communicators who strive for balance in the middle ground. We explore the intersections of practicality and creativity, avoiding the extremes of rigid thinking and unfettered imagination. Our goal is to help brands effectively communicate with their audiences. We take all feedback about a brand into consideration, and we approach the brand's needs from the client's perspective. We use design in just the right amount – neither too little nor too much – to create an emotional connection between a brand and its users. This enhances product depth and firmly establishes a brand's place in the popular imagination.
Medium2 Studio Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Medium2 Studio.
Medium2 Studio Design - Pinch Chair
Designer Interview of Medium2 Studio:
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?
MS : From a very young age, I've always been drawn to creativity and craftsmanship. The freedom of expression that design offered was something that deeply resonated with me. I began my journey as a furniture designer after obtaining my degree in design and have been continuously learning and growing ever since. The process of turning abstract ideas into tangible, functional pieces of art is what made me fall in love with design. Yes, I've always had a propensity for aesthetics and the desire to create.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
MS : Medium2 Studio was established in 2015 and specializes in product design, furniture design, branding identity, and graphic design. The term "Medium" signifies being in between two things and also refers to the medium that carries messages in communication. Medium2 Studio acts as a mediator, seeking a balance between the two ends and carrying design value. We explore the intersection of practicality and creativity, navigating between the realm of reality and imaginative possibilities, to convey the message that designs aim to communicate to people.
DI: What is "design" for you?
MS : "To me, 'design' is a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics. I believe, not only serves a practical purpose but also invokes an emotional response and fosters meaningful connections.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
MS : The first thing I designed for a company was a task chair. The inspiration for its design came from a hedgehog. We transformed the image of the hedgehog into a perforated pattern on the chair's backrest. This unique and creative design was recognized with the prestigious Good Design Award in Japan.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
MS : When designing, I put a lot of emphasis on the functionality and durability of the product, but without compromising the aesthetics. I believe that each element in the design must serve a purpose. Additionally, I always consider the environment that the furniture will be placed in, striving to create a design that complements its surroundings and enhances the overall ambience.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
MS : When I design, I experience a wide spectrum of emotions. The early stages are often filled with excitement and anticipation as I explore ideas and possibilities. There's a certain joy in the process of creation, where the abstract starts to take shape. However, it also comes with its share of challenges and frustrations, particularly when trying to balance aesthetics, function, and feasibility. But overall, it's a deeply satisfying and fulfilling process.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
MS : Seeing my designs come to life is an incredibly gratifying experience. There's a strong sense of accomplishment and pride in seeing a concept that once only existed in my mind, now tangible and real. There's also a touch of anticipation, as I wait to see how people interact with and respond to my design.
DI: What makes a design successful?
MS : In my opinion, a design is successful when it fulfills its intended function well, resonates with its user on an emotional level, and stands the test of time. A successful design should not only meet the immediate needs but also contribute to the overall experience by creating an emotional connection and being aesthetically pleasing.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
MS : When assessing a design, I consider its functionality, aesthetics, sustainability, and originality.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
MS : The design field is continually evolving, largely influenced by advancements in technology and shifts in societal needs. We are seeing a growing emphasis on sustainable and inclusive designs. With the rise of technologies like AI, VR, and 3D printing, designers now have new tools and platforms to explore and express their ideas. In the future, I believe we will see a further blending of physical and digital realms, a greater focus on user experience, and an increased awareness of the social and environmental impacts of design.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
MS : I often find new perspectives in traveling and experiencing different cultures. Feeding my creativity involves continuous learning, observing, and staying curious. Books, movies, exhibitions, and even everyday objects can spark fresh ideas.
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?
MS : I strive to create designs that are not only beautiful but also serve their intended purpose efficiently. What draws me to this style is the challenge of finding the balance between form and function.
DI: How do you work with companies?
MS : I start with understanding the company's needs and vision, then I conduct research, generate and refine design concepts, get feedback, and create detailed design specifications for production, keeping regular communication with the client throughout the process.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
MS : My 'golden rule' in design is to always maintain a balance between form and function. A well-designed product must serve its purpose efficiently while being aesthetically pleasing.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
MS : Key skills for a designer include technical abilities with design software, creativity, problem-solving skills, communication, empathy, and knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
MS : We are Medium2 Studio, we work as a team.
DI: How can people contact you?
MS : People can reach me via email at jack@medium2studio.com. If you have any needs or inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact me. I'm always open to discussing potential projects or collaborations.