We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Matteo Congiu ("MC").
Matteo Congiu is a 33-year-old young designer and entrepreneur from Sardinia, graduated in Product Design from IED in Cagliari and a master's degree in Digital Fabrication and Innovation from IED in Milan. Sustainability and innovation are his greatest passions. The first innovative project is an interactive breathalyzer, developed by Matteo in partnership with Samsung Italy and presented at the Milan Furniture Fair in 2015; in 2017 he founded the OTQ Design brand, designing and presenting BISU: the world's first cork bed capable of improving sleep quality thanks to the antistatic properties of cork. 2017 brought the development of another innovative idea. Igloo, an intelligent lamp connected to one's home, capable of communicating live home consumption by changing its color. The project won the DYSON AWARDS and ILLUMIA. Today, he collaborates with IED as a teacher, designs furniture for private clients and large companies in the high-end furniture sector. He also directs the OTQ brand as Creative Director and CEO.
Matteo Congiu Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Matteo Congiu.
Matteo Congiu Design - Bisu Bed
Designer Interview of Matteo Congiu:
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?
MC : I became an industrial designer due to a combination of influences and passions. Growing up in Sardinia, I developed a love for natural beauty and craftsmanship. From a young age, I showed a passion for creating objects, which eventually led me to pursue a career in design. While I didn't always know I wanted to become a designer, I discovered my passion for working with materials and transforming ideas into tangible products. I decided to study industrial design at IED in Milan to refine my skills. This education solidified my love for design and provided me with the opportunity to create meaningful projects, such as the BISU cork bed, which aims to improve sleep quality using natural materials.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
MC : I currently operate a design studio based in Sardinia, where I collaborate with various companies in the design and furniture industry. Our design philosophy revolves around the use of natural materials and a deep appreciation for the environment. We believe that combining aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability is key to creating products that resonate with people and stand the test of time. In my studio, we work on a wide range of design projects, from furniture and interior design to product design. Our emphasis on natural materials not only reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility but also celebrates the intrinsic beauty of these materials. We strive to create designs that evoke a sense of harmony with nature and seamlessly integrate into different living spaces. One of our most significant achievements is the development of the world's first cork bed, known as BISU. This unique creation is designed to enhance sleep quality through the natural properties of cork, which include insulation, breathability, and comfort. Our studio's dedication to innovation and sustainability has garnered attention, and we continue to explore new avenues in the world of design, seeking to make a positive impact on people's lives and the planet. Overall, our design studio is a hub for creativity and a testament to our commitment to combining innovative design with the inherent beauty of natural materials, offering a unique and environmentally conscious perspective in the design and furniture industry.
DI: What is "design" for you?
MC : For me, "design" is a multifaceted and deeply creative discipline that goes beyond aesthetics. It's the art of problem-solving and improving the human experience through thoughtful and intentional creation. Design encompasses a broad spectrum, from industrial and product design to interior and graphic design, but at its core, it's about making things better, more functional, and more beautiful. Design is the process of shaping ideas into tangible forms that serve a purpose, whether it's a product, a space, or a visual concept. It involves considering the user's needs, the environment, and the cultural context in which the design will exist. Design is about finding the right balance between form and function, aesthetics and usability, and often sustainability and innovation. Moreover, design is a medium for self-expression and a means to convey messages, evoke emotions, and tell stories. It's a dynamic field that continually evolves, responding to changing technologies, materials, and cultural trends. Ultimately, design, to me, is a powerful tool for positive change, allowing us to create solutions, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact on the world around us.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MC : I have a deep appreciation for various forms of design, but I'm particularly drawn to projects that involve the creation of functional and aesthetic objects, especially in the realm of product design and furniture design. There's something incredibly satisfying about designing items that people interact with in their daily lives. Here are the kinds of works I enjoy designing the most: Furniture Design: Crafting furniture pieces allows me to explore the intersection of form and function. It's an opportunity to create items that enhance living spaces, and I find it rewarding to design pieces that are both beautiful and practical. Product Design: Designing everyday products presents the challenge of making objects that seamlessly fit into people's lives while improving their experiences. I enjoy finding innovative solutions to common problems through product design. Interior Design: Shaping interior spaces is another passion of mine. It involves creating environments that tell a story and provide a sense of comfort and functionality. Interior design is about transforming spaces into holistic experiences. Sustainable Design: Given my preference for natural materials, I'm particularly enthusiastic about sustainable design. Designing eco-friendly products that promote responsible consumption and environmental stewardship is a cause I'm deeply committed to. Innovative and Unique Concepts: I'm also excited about projects that push the boundaries of conventional design. Designing one-of-a-kind, innovative, and avant-garde pieces challenges my creativity and allows me to experiment with new ideas and materials. In summary, I am most passionate about designing objects and spaces that have a positive impact on people's lives, are aesthetically pleasing, and incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly elements whenever possible. It's a privilege to create designs that resonate with users and leave a lasting impression
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
MC : As a designer, it's challenging to pick a single favorite design because each project I work on holds a special place in my heart, and they all have unique qualities and stories behind them. However, if I were to choose one that stands out as particularly significant, it would be the BISU bed, the world's first cork bed that I mentioned earlier. The BISU bed is a project I'm particularly fond of for several reasons: Innovation: The BISU bed is innovative in its use of cork as the primary material. Cork offers exceptional qualities like natural insulation, breathability, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for a bed. This innovation aligns with my passion for exploring new materials and pushing the boundaries of conventional design. Sustainability: Cork is a sustainable and eco-friendly material. Cork oak trees are not cut down during the harvesting process, and the material is renewable. Designing a bed using cork showcases my commitment to sustainable design practices, which is a core value in my work. Improving Quality of Life: The primary goal of the BISU bed is to enhance the quality of sleep. It does this by leveraging the natural properties of cork to create a comfortable and healthy sleeping environment. I find great satisfaction in knowing that a design I created can positively impact people's lives by improving their sleep quality. Embracing Nature: The BISU bed is a testament to my love for natural materials and craftsmanship. It beautifully blends the aesthetics of nature with functional design, creating a piece that harmonizes with the environment it's placed in. Challenging the Status Quo: The BISU bed represents a departure from traditional bed designs, offering a unique and alternative approach to sleep comfort. Challenging the status quo in design is something I'm passionate about, and this project allowed me to do just that. In summary, the BISU bed is a favorite project of mine because it embodies innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to improving people's lives through design. It's a design that reflects my design philosophy and values, making it a particularly meaningful creation in my career.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
MC : The first thing was a breathalizer for Samsung. With gamification i realized a product that could help people to drink responsibly.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
MC : Cork and wood are my favourite materials. CNC the best technology.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
MC : I feel most creative when I'm in an environment and mindset that fosters inspiration and innovation. Creativity is a fluid and dynamic process, and it can strike at different times and under various circumstances. However, there are certain conditions and moments when I tend to feel the most creative: Nature and the Outdoors: Being in natural surroundings, whether it's hiking in the mountains, strolling along the beach, or simply sitting in a park, often ignites my creativity. Nature's beauty, diversity, and tranquility inspire new ideas and designs. Solitude: Having moments of solitude, away from distractions, allows me to focus my thoughts and delve deep into the creative process. It's during these quiet moments that I often have breakthrough ideas and concepts. Collaborative Sessions: Brainstorming and collaborating with other creative individuals can be incredibly stimulating. Sharing ideas, perspectives, and insights with a team often leads to the generation of innovative concepts. Travel: Exploring new places and cultures exposes me to fresh experiences and perspectives. Travel broadens my creative horizons and offers a wealth of inspiration from different parts of the world. Material Exploration: When I'm in my workshop, experimenting with materials and creating prototypes, I often find myself in a state of flow. Working with my hands and physically engaging with materials can trigger bursts of creativity. Sensory Stimulation: Engaging my senses through art, music, literature, and even culinary experiences can spark creativity. These forms of sensory stimulation can lead to new ideas and ways of thinking. Challenges and Problem-Solving: When faced with complex design challenges or problems to solve, my creativity is often at its peak. Necessity is the mother of invention, and the process of finding innovative solutions can be highly stimulating. Personal Passion Projects: Pursuing projects that align with my personal passions and values often fuels my creativity. When I'm emotionally invested in a project, I find that my creative energy is particularly high. Overall, creativity is a dynamic and adaptable force that can be sparked by different triggers and environments. Being attuned to these moments and intentionally seeking out sources of inspiration is essential for a designer.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
MC : During the design process, I prioritize several key aspects to ensure that the final product is both functional and aesthetically pleasing while aligning with my design philosophy. These are the aspects I focus on most: User-Centered Design: The user's needs, preferences, and comfort are of utmost importance. I aim to create designs that enhance the user's experience and fulfill their requirements. This involves in-depth research and understanding of the end user. Functionality: The practicality and functionality of a design are critical. Every element of a design should serve a purpose and contribute to the overall utility of the product or space. I strive to eliminate unnecessary complexity and ensure ease of use. Aesthetics: The visual appeal of a design is essential. Aesthetics can evoke emotions, create a connection with the user, and make the design stand out. I focus on harmonizing form and function to create visually appealing and cohesive designs. Sustainability: I have a strong commitment to sustainability, so I prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable design practices. This includes using natural materials, minimizing waste, and considering the product's environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. Material Selection: The choice of materials is crucial. I prefer natural materials for their inherent beauty, sustainability, and unique qualities. The selection of materials plays a significant role in achieving the desired aesthetics and functionality of a design. Innovation: I look for opportunities to innovate and challenge conventional design norms. Innovation can lead to groundbreaking solutions and fresh perspectives in design. Cultural and Contextual Considerations: Understanding the cultural and contextual aspects of a design's intended environment is vital. A design should be culturally sensitive and relevant to the context in which it will be used. Quality and Craftsmanship: I prioritize high-quality craftsmanship to ensure that the final product meets the highest standards of durability and craftsmanship. Quality materials and meticulous attention to detail are essential. Ergonomics and Comfort: For furniture and product design, I pay close attention to ergonomics and comfort. The design should promote a comfortable and healthy user experience. Emotional Connection: I aim to create designs that foster an emotional connection with users. Whether through storytelling, aesthetics, or functionality, I want the design to resonate with people on a personal level. In summary, my design process is guided by a holistic approach that considers the user, functionality, aesthetics, sustainability, and the broader context. By focusing on these key aspects, I strive to create designs that are both meaningful and impactful.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
MC : When I design, I experience a mix of emotions, including: Excitement: The thrill of embarking on something new and creative. Inspiration: Ideas sparked by influences and research. Satisfaction: When I find innovative solutions to design challenges. Frustration: During the difficult phases and revision processes. Pride: In the end, when I see my work come to life. Connection: When a creation evokes empathy and connection with others. Anxiety: In the pursuit of perfection and the anticipation of feedback. Passion: For the creative process and a love for design. These emotions fluctuate throughout the design process, but they all contribute to driving and motivating my work.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
MC : When my designs are realized, I feel: Satisfaction Pride Excitement Gratitude Validation Relief Curiosity Motivation
DI: What makes a design successful?
MC : A successful design is one that effectively achieves its intended purpose and resonates with its audience. Key factors that contribute to the success of a design include: Functionality: The design must be practical and serve its intended function efficiently and effectively. It should address a specific need or problem. Aesthetics: A successful design is visually appealing and harmonious. It should evoke positive emotions and create a strong first impression. User-Centered: It considers the user's needs, preferences, and comfort, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Innovation: Successful designs often push the boundaries and introduce fresh ideas or approaches, setting them apart from the ordinary. Sustainability: An increasing emphasis on environmental responsibility means successful designs often incorporate sustainable practices and materials. Adaptability: Designs that can evolve and adapt to changing needs and contexts are often more successful in the long term. Cultural Relevance: A design that resonates with its cultural and contextual environment is more likely to succeed and connect with its audience. Quality: High-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail are essential for a design's success, ensuring durability and longevity. Emotional Connection: A successful design creates an emotional connection with users, making it memorable and desirable. Simplicity: Simplicity in design often leads to user-friendly and accessible solutions, contributing to success. Market Fit: The design must align with the target market's needs and preferences, making it relevant and competitive. Feedback and Iteration: The ability to gather feedback and make iterative improvements is crucial for a design's ongoing success. In summary, a successful design is a balance of form and function, catering to user needs, and often pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability while resonating emotionally with its audience.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
MC : When judging a design as good or bad, I consider several key aspects, with a primary focus on the following: Functionality: The design's ability to effectively serve its intended purpose is paramount. It must be practical, user-friendly, and efficient. Aesthetics: Visual appeal is crucial. I assess how well the design aligns with its intended aesthetic and whether it evokes positive emotions. User Experience: How well the design enhances the user's experience and addresses their needs and preferences is a critical factor. Innovation: I look for elements of innovation or creativity that set the design apart from conventional or existing solutions. Sustainability: The design's eco-friendliness and consideration of environmental impact are increasingly important in my evaluation. Cultural and Contextual Relevance: The extent to which the design fits within its cultural and contextual environment is an essential consideration. Quality and Craftsmanship: Attention to detail and the overall quality of the design's execution are important for durability and longevity. Simplicity: Simplicity in design, where it enhances usability and clarity, is favored. Market Fit: Whether the design aligns with the target market's needs and preferences is a key factor in my assessment. Emotional Connection: I evaluate the design's ability to create an emotional connection with users, making it memorable and desirable. Adaptability: Designs that can evolve and adapt to changing needs and contexts are often more positively judged. Feedback and Iteration: The potential for the design to gather feedback and make iterative improvements is considered, as it can contribute to its overall quality. In summary, a good design is a well-balanced combination of form and function that caters to user needs and preferences while considering innovation, sustainability, and cultural relevance.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
MC : Designers have significant responsibilities toward both society and the environment. From my perspective, these responsibilities include:Sustainability: Prioritize eco-friendly materials and practices. Innovation: Drive eco-friendly solutions. Accessibility: Create designs for all, including those with disabilities. Ethical Choices: Avoid harmful or exploitative designs. User-Centered: Focus on user well-being.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
MC : Tokyo 2023
DI: How can people contact you?
MC : www.matteocongiudesign.it