We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Sean Miller ("SM").

Sean Miller’s intent is to design a variety of products incorporating recognizable function and unique form. In addition, he is interested in creating distinctive designs that solve real world problems. He has a collaborative personality and thrives at bringing style to new ideas. Furniture and home products captivate Sean. He enjoys a wide variety of sports activities and has love for photography. Sean Miller has worked at several design firms creating a wide range of products for the sports industry. He is currently a Master’s Candidate at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA., USA.

Sean Miller Designs

We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Sean Miller.

Designer Interview of Sean Miller:

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?

SM : I studied art and movie making in High School. I continued to study art in college. It was there that I became intrigued by Industrial Design and integration of the user's need and art.

DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?

SM : I am working on my master's degree so I have not formed a company as yet.

DI: What is "design" for you?

SM : I believe design is a plan or drawing which shows the look and function of the product.

DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?

SM : I enjoy designing for the sports industry and household goods.

DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?

SM : My favorite design is a portable surfboard carrier that unfolds to make a dressing area for the surfer.

DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?

SM : I was involved in creating a new water sport called Skwim.

DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?

SM : The user and the experience they have with the product is relevant to every aspect of the design process

DI: What makes a design successful?

SM : A design is successful if it is innovative, useful and aesthetically pleasing.

DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?

SM : I would consider how the user would interact with the product or design.

DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?

SM : Designers should create products that take into consideration the user's needs and that are sustainable.

DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?

SM : As technology evolves so must the design field. It will need to incorporate new technologies into the design process as well as the products themselves.

DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?

SM : Inspiration for my designs comes from my observations of the world around me. I appreciate nature in all of its changing forms. I am constantly analyzing the form and function of products.

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?

SM : My design style is still evolving but will always consider the user.

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?

SM : I live in San Francisco, California, USA. The city is so diverse that I would say that my environment rather than a specific cultural heritage influences my designs.

DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?

SM : My process begins with determining a need. I observe and research users and the product to determine what might be done to solve the problem be it creating something new or enhancing an existing product. Drawings are done and 3-D models built. Prototypes are tested. Modifications are made throughout the process. After final testing the design is considered finished.

DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?

SM : Always consider the "How". How will you enhance the user's experience?

DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?

SM : Always consider the user.

DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?

SM : I set long and short-term goals. Of course these are constantly being adjusted but they provide a framework.

DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?

SM : Depends on many variables. There is always a time-line.

DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?

SM : I enjoy designing products for the sports industry and household goods.

DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?

SM : I will complete my master's degree in Dec., 2014 and then I plan to secure a position with a design firm.

DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?

SM : I have worked as a member of a team and by myself.

DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?

SM : I am designing a mobile ski slope that can be used in the summer or during times of low snowfall. The purpose is to encourage newcomers to try snow sports and keep current users interested.

DI: How can people contact you?

SM : sean.v.miller@gmail.com 253-223-5176