We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Riccardo Petruzzelli ("RP").
Precise, professional, independent, punctual, creative and focused on collaborative work, constantly looking for new sources of inspiration and committed to maintaining a continuous update. His distinctive feature, which will play a crucial role in the pursuit of his objectives, is perseverance. His technological skills are integrated in a synergistic way with manual ones, allowing his to face projects in a complete and versatile way. Research, development and project planning are the essential foundations on which he bases his professional approach. His customer-oriented methodology, combined with technical expertise, allows his to offer a complete and targeted service, characterized by a thorough understanding of the project dynamics and expectations of the client.
Riccardo Petruzzelli Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Riccardo Petruzzelli.
Riccardo Petruzzelli Design - Echos Electric Charging Station
Designer Interview of Riccardo Petruzzelli:
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?
RP : My background is more technical than artistic. I started my career by attending an industrial technical institute and then I studied engineering, that helped consolidate my inclination towards a more creative approach. This led to the decision to embark on the path in product design, a choice that day after day is more and more suitable to my aspirations. The desire to become a designer has its roots since childhood: since I was a child, I manifested an innate curiosity, constantly dismantling and reassembling my games to understand how they work. Over the years, this curiosity has turned into a desire to create objects with a precise purpose. My academic career in design has given me the opportunity to broaden my vision of what it means to be a designer: a professional figure who focuses his attention on human needs and is committed to translating them into practical solutions, products and effective services. Every designer's goal is to help improve the world around us, considering the progress and the potential that it contains. My desire is to create a positive impact on our environment through design, innovating and constantly trying to overcome current challenges for a better and more sustainable future.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
RP : I am currently exploring a wide range of projects without having a specific preference for an object type to be designed. I am applying my design method in different areas to identify my "comfort zone" in the design world. I am experimenting with various situations and approaches to broaden my skills and discover my passions. This exploration process helps me to better understand my inclinations and identify areas where I can excel. While the journey can be challenging, I’m excited to take on the challenges and see where my experiences and commitment to design will take me.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
RP : My first project for a company was the creation of a concept for the interior design of a smart ambulance. This work was an exciting challenge, as I was committed to designing an efficient and functional space for rescuers and patients. Subsequently, my role expanded to the design of front and rear spoilers, which not only increase visibility during emergency operations, but also integrate directional and position lights to ensure road safety. The complete ambulance, also equipped with a drone for surveillance and rescue operations, was successfully presented at the REAS (International Emergency Exhibition), receiving appreciation for the innovation and functionality of design. In detail of the interior layout, I focused on the design of the bulkhead, the ceiling and the perimeter walls of the passenger compartment, as well as upper storage compartments. Once the concept was completed, the work was transferred to the engineering team, which took care of the prototyping of the bodies and the technical compartments, ensuring that the design was successfully implemented and meet the practical and safety needs required in the field of medical emergency.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
RP : During the design process, I mainly focus on the functionality and usefulness of the product. Once the function is defined, I work to develop the shape, expanding the aesthetic appearance and refining the details. This approach allows me to ensure that the design not only meets the practical needs of the user, but that it is also aesthetically pleasing and engaging. The balance between function and form is essential to create products that not only work well, but also arouse positive emotions and meet the aesthetic expectations of users.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
RP : In the design process, the emotions I experience are multiple and often conflicting. On the one hand, there is an initial enthusiasm in bringing an idea to life and exploring new creative possibilities. However, this enthusiasm can be followed by moments of discouragement and frustration when challenges and obstacles arise in the design process. Anger can emerge when you encounter unforeseen limitations or criticalities, but it is precisely through the resolution of these challenges that you come to gratification and happiness. Finding innovative solutions and overcoming obstacles brings a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction. In addition, there is a sense of freedom derived from creativity, which offers endless possibilities for expression and experimentation. However, this freedom inevitably confronts the reality of the technical, economic and practical feasibility of a project, often generating a tension between creative vision and real constraints. In summary, design is an emotional journey made of ups and downs, enthusiasm and disappointments, but it is precisely this range of emotions that makes the process so engaging and rewarding.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
RP : No doubt, to witness the evolution of a product, which was initially just an idea in your mind, along a path studded with joys and sorrows, victories and defeats, of appreciation and criticism, whether constructive or not, is a deeply rewarding experience. Every change made, every confirmation obtained, represents a significant stage in this journey towards realization. Seeing the fruit of one’s work transformed into something tangible and concrete generates a sense of pride and indescribable joy. These feelings and emotions are precisely what fueled my motivation to pursue this path. The ability to transform an abstract idea into something tangible and functional is one of the greatest satisfactions that a designer can experience. This is why I decided to take on this challenge and to dedicate time and energy to the realization of my projects: the desire to turn creativity into reality.
DI: What makes a design successful?
RP : The success of a project lies in being guided by a strong idea, a concept that, stressed and declined in many ways, always retains its effectiveness and impact. In addition, the attention to detail represent, in my opinion, the added value that makes a product truly unique and memorable. It is important to stress that these two aspects are closely related: the strong idea manifests itself through attention to detail, while attention to detail helps to consolidate and amplify the effectiveness of the basic idea. A well-defined and consistently developed concept is the beating heart of a successful project, providing clear guidance and a shared vision for the team. At the same time, attention to detail adds depth and sophistication to the final product, capturing the audience’s attention and creating an emotional bond with users. In practice, this means dedicating time and resources to finishing every aspect of the project, from the choice of materials to the visual presentation, from the user experience to the quality of the design.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
RP : I am convinced that inspiration can come from every aspect of our world, regardless of its direct relationship to what we are planning. I try to be open and curious about everything around me, because I think this attitude is fundamental to deepen my knowledge and stimulate my creativity. Although my projects are characterized by geometric and rational lines, I often find inspiration in the automotive design world. This sector fascinates me deeply for its unique combination of dynamic shapes and refined details. Despite the stylistic differences, I find that exploring the world of automotive design helps me to better understand the aesthetic and functional principles that guide my work. To fuel my creativity, I am committed to staying constantly informed and exploring new territories. Participating in exhibitions, traveling to new places and doing research are just some of the activities that allow me to broaden my horizons and discover new sources of inspiration.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
RP : The choice is vast but if I had to opt for five basic objects I would go to: 1. LC2 armchair by Le Corbusier: It embodies the elegance and functionality of modern design, with clean and geometric lines that integrate perfectly in any context, offering sophistication and comfort. 2. Atollo table lamp by Vico Magistretti: Icon of Italian design, offers a perfect combination of shape and function, with a hemispherical silhouette and diffused light to create a welcoming atmosphere in any environment. 3. Arco floor lamp by Fratelli Castiglioni: An illuminating work of art that adds elegance and modernity, with an arched structure and marble base that allows you to place the light exactly where it is needed, creating focal points of comfort and style. 4. Eames Lounge Chair: Celebrated for its iconic design and unbeatable comfort, this armchair quickly becomes the center of any environment thanks to its upholstery high quality leather and wrap-around shape that invites relaxation and rest. 5. Conical Coffee Maker by Aldo Rossi: In addition to preparing a great coffee, it is a piece of art in itself, with a simple and essential design that goes perfectly with any decor style, adding a touch of sophistication to your daily routine.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
RP : In my "toolbox" for design, I have a variety of software that allow me to deal with different stages of the creative process. Here are the main ones: - Modeling: I mainly use Rhino for its versatility and power, but I also have experience with Autodesk’s Fusion 360, offering an integrated approach to 3D modeling and parametric design. - Rendering: To bring my models to life, I rely mainly on Keyshot and Vray, two leading rendering software that deliver realistic, high-quality results. These tools are critical to communicating the final design effectively. - Graphics and presentation: For creating attractive graphic documents and presentations, I use Illustrator and Indesign. These software offer a wide range of tools for designing layout and creating high-quality visual content. - Animation: To add dynamism to my projects, I rely on After Effects. With this software, I can create animations fluid and engaging that improve the presentation of my work. However, I am always open to learning new software or resources to expand my skills and achieve my goals more effectively. I recognize the importance of staying up to date on the latest technologies and tools available in the field of design, and I am ready to invest time and resources to acquire new skills when needed.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
RP : There have been projects that I’ve managed independently, but I recognize the value of teamwork in design. I firmly believe that the success of a project depends on the collaboration and contribution of each team member. Each component has a fundamental role and contributes significantly to achieving the objectives set. Working in a team offers the opportunity to make the most of different skills and perspectives, encouraging creativity and synergy. Ideas are enriched through the exchange of views and interaction between team members, leading to innovative and well thought-out solutions. Therefore, although I have experience in working independently, I am always ready to collaborate with other professionals to address complex challenges and achieve excellent results in the field of design.