We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Kush Kaveh ("KK").
Kush Kaveh is a designer whose work is grounded in a rich background in arts, architecture, and music. This diverse expertise informs a professional approach that integrates aesthetic sensibility with practical functionality. With a career that spans various creative disciplines, Kaveh has developed a nuanced perspective on design, blending form and function in ways that are both innovative and accessible. His commitment to sustainable practices and cultural relevance is evident in his thoughtful approach to each project. Kaveh’s work reflects a deep respect for the interdisciplinary nature of design, showcasing a dedication to creating meaningful and enduring contributions to the field.
Kush Kaveh Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Kush Kaveh.
Kush Kaveh Design - Quiksip Drink Packaging
Designer Interview of Kush Kaveh:
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?
KK : I have a rich background in music, arts, and design, which has greatly influenced my perspective and approach. My journey into design was a natural progression from my artistic roots. I’ve always been passionate about creating, and design offered a way to blend creativity with functionality. It wasn't a path I always knew I'd take, but once I discovered it, there was no turning back.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
KK : I founded Neoclio, a branding, media, and design agency. We specialize in creating compelling visual identities and innovative solutions that resonate with audiences. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of both aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that our designs not only look good but also serve a purpose.
DI: What is "design" for you?
KK : Design, for me, is the art of problem-solving. It’s about understanding the needs of the user and crafting solutions that are both beautiful and functional. It’s a way to communicate ideas and emotions through visual and tactile elements.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
KK : I love a challenge and thrive on solving complex problems. The bigger the problem, the happier I am to tackle it. I enjoy trying new things and pushing the boundaries of what's possible, whether it's in branding, packaging, UX design, painting or digital design.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
KK : One of my favorite designs is the Quiksip drink packaging. It combines minimalism with bold, monochromatic visuals that emphasize natural flavors. It’s a design that’s both striking and functional, making it easy for consumers to connect with the product.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
KK : The first thing I designed for a company was a logo for a small local business. It was a simple yet impactful design that helped them establish their brand identity and stand out in their market.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
KK : I love exploring new materials and technologies. While the digital world offers unlimited opportunities, there's something special about the feel of material, texture, and the physical touch. Both realms have their unique place in my heart.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
KK : I feel the most creative late at night when the world is quiet. There’s something about the stillness that allows me to focus and let my imagination run wild without distractions.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
KK : I focus heavily on the user experience and the overall aesthetic. It’s important to me that the design is not only visually appealing but also intuitive and functional. I love thinking outside the box, but you have to know the rules to break them. Every element should have a purpose and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the design.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
KK : When I design, I feel a mix of excitement and curiosity. There’s always a sense of adventure in exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. It’s a deeply satisfying and fulfilling process.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
KK : Seeing my designs come to life brings immense joy and pride. It’s incredibly rewarding to see something that started as an idea in my mind take physical form and have a real impact on people.
DI: What makes a design successful?
KK : A successful design speaks to both the heart and the mind. It's a blend of function and beauty that makes people's lives better, even in small ways. It should feel intuitive and look timeless. But most importantly, a great design can help change the world and touch people's lives in ways that were never imaginable.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
KK : In design, it's hard to fake authenticity. Some focus too much on aesthetics and forget about functionality; both are equally important. A good design balances beauty and usability, ensuring it looks great and works well.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
KK : Designers have a responsibility to create sustainable and ethical designs. Our work can drive positive social change and promote environmental awareness, making a real impact on society and culture.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
KK : The design field is rapidly evolving with technology, AI and all the new stuff that is happening. However, I believe people will always value the raw, human touch. The future of design lies in authentic, human-centered creations.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
KK : My last exhibition was in Tehran, showcasing my modern art, sculptures, and paintings. I plan to hold my next exhibition soon, exploring new themes and mediums.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
KK : If inspiration had a formula, I'd be a millionaire! My inspiration comes from nature, music, art, and everyday life. I stay curious, observe the world around me, and constantly seek new learning experiences to fuel my creativity.
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?
KK : If I had the formula for inspiration, I'd be a millionaire! But my inspiration comes from nature, music, art, and everyday life. I stay curious, observe the world around me, and constantly seek new learning experiences to fuel my creativity.
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?
KK : I currently live in Turkey. The rich culture, history, and vibrant mix of traditions here greatly influence my designs. While they provide a unlimited source of inspiration, navigating different cultural expectations can be challenging. But I'm up for a challenge!
DI: How do you work with companies?
KK : Effective communication and understanding are key. I ensure I fully grasp the company's vision and goals and maintain open dialogue throughout the design process to create designs that resonate with their brand and audience.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
KK : When I hire, I look for attitude, personality, and the ability to learn. Talent is important, but so is character. Companies should seek designers who are adaptable, eager to learn, and great communicators.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
KK : My design process starts with thorough research and understanding the problem. Then, I brainstorm and explore different ideas. I refine these concepts through constant iteration, turning them into tangible designs that meet the final vision.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
KK : I love my vinyl record player, a blend of vintage and modern design. My ergonomic chair is both stylish and functional. My collection of art books is a constant source of inspiration. The minimalist lamp on my desk provides perfect lighting, and my hand-crafted ceramics add a personal touch to my space.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
KK : My day starts with a morning walk with my dog to clear my mind. I spend my mornings working on design projects, then take a break for lunch. Afternoons are for meetings and brainstorming sessions with my team. Evenings are reserved for personal projects or learning new skills. I end my day with some music or taking a few minutes to meditate and appreciate a moment of silence.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
KK : Stay curious and never stop learning. Embrace failure as part of the process. Build a strong portfolio and seek feedback. Surround yourself with inspiring people and always keep an open mind. Hard work and consistency will always trump effortless talent.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
KK : The positives include the ability to express creativity, solve problems, and make an impact. However, it can be challenging to balance client expectations with personal vision, and the field is highly competitive. So keep evolving and exploring.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
KK : Form follows function. A design should excel in performance before it shines in appearance.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
KK : Critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability are crucial. Strong communication skills and proficiency with design tools are also important. But most importantly, embrace growth. Change is always challenging, but it's worth the effort.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
KK : I use Adobe Creative Suite for most of my digital work. I love sketching ideas on paper first. My toolbox includes a laptop, design books, and a curated list of online resources and inspiration boards. I do acrylic on canvas painting and woodworking from time to time to keep my creativity going.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
KK : I prioritize tasks and set clear deadlines. I break projects into manageable chunks and use time-tracking tools to stay on schedule. Taking regular breaks helps maintain my productivity and creativity.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
KK : It varies depending on the complexity of the project. It can take anywhere from a few days to several months, from initial concept to final execution.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
KK : Most people ask about my creative process and where I find inspiration. It's always a joy to share my journey and what drives my creativity.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
KK : I value all my experiences, each offering unique benefits. Every project has enriched my skills and broadened my perspective in its own way, from UX design to branding and packaging.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
KK : My clients range from startups to established brands across various industries. Each project brings its own unique challenges and learning opportunities.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
KK : I thrive on projects that require innovative solutions and out-of-the-box thinking. I love creating designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
KK : I plan to continue exploring the intersection of technology and design, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. I'm also looking forward to expanding Neoclio and collaborating with other creatives.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
KK : value collaboration and often work with a talented team. However, I also enjoy solo projects where I can fully immerse myself in the creative process.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
KK : Yes, I’m currently working on a software project that integrates AI with design tools to enhance the creative process while maximizing business efficiency. It's an exciting blend of my interests in technology, entrepreneurship and design.
DI: How can people contact you?
KK : People can reach me through my agency, Neoclio, via email or social media. I’m always open to new opportunities and collaborations.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
KK : I’d like to emphasize the importance of continuous learning and staying curious. The world of design is ever-evolving, and it’s crucial to keep pushing the boundaries and exploring new ideas.