Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

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?

As far back as I can remember, I’ve always loved creating. Like so many kids who found joy in playing with LEGO, I was hooked but I rarely followed the instructions. Instead, I’d mix parts from different sets, building new creatures and gadgets, or constantly turning each piece into something it wasn’t meant to be. Beyond that, I’d always find myself doodling cars and spaceships in the margins of my schoolbooks. I even imagined an entire car brand called Nitro, where I was the designer. Eventually, I discovered the world of industrial design and began studying it four years ago.

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

Currently, I’m working at Hobo Lighting, a company founded by Mr. Mohammad Mostafa Sharifian Mehr. Last year, we won a Bronze A’ Design Award together for the Modulo project, and we’ve also managed to secure several other awards. Mohammad is exceptionally strong in product engineering, and I can confidently say that Hobo is the top specialized lighting company in my country we produce some of the finest lights out there. That said, in the near future, I’m really eager to establish my own design studio, ideally alongside collaborating with or better yet, designing for major brands.

What is "design" for you?

For me, design is the greatest joy in life it’s pure creation. In a thorough and professional process, we first search for the problem, observing everything with meticulous attention. We don’t just put ourselves in the user’s shoes; we step into the problem itself, and with great care, we solve it, answering the questions that have long gone unanswered. To me, design is about creating solutions, overcoming challenges, and shaping the future. We carry a spark of the Creator’s spirit within us, drawing the timelines of what’s yet to come.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

I’ve always preferred to keep my hands in all areas of design, rather than limiting myself to a single path. At the moment, I’m working in lighting, but my true passion lies in transportation design especially automotive design, with a childhood dream of working for a brand like BMW. Still, I’m not willing to confine myself to lighting, transportation, or anything else. If I have an idea for fashion, jewelry, or even architecture, I don’t want to hold it back. Sometimes, I even find myself imagining musical instrument designs!

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

If I answer from the heart, the first product that comes to mind is the BMW 428i Coupe F32, produced between 2013 and 2020. Its Zeus blue color was simply stunning in every way, and every time I see one on the street, I just want to pull up a chair, pour myself some matcha tea, and admire it for hours. Maybe even rev the engine a bit or run my hands along its bodywork. But if I think logically, the iPhone lineup from the 2G to the 4S era under Steve Jobs was, in my view, one of the most flawless designs in history. Nothing at the time could match that level of design perfection so much so that I actually have an iPhone 4S mounted on my wall like a piece of art, and I look at it every day.

What was the first thing you designed for a company?

The first professional project I did for a company was Project 7 for Hobo an outdoor stand light. I was fully focused on it, and honestly, the only real challenge was making it waterproof.

What is your favorite material / platform / technology?

Aluminum is my favorite material, and recently, I’ve been fascinated by 3D printing technologies, especially for metals like aluminum. It’s truly groundbreaking, and with the rapid progress of technology, we should expect even more integration of AI and 3D printing, leading to incredible transformations in the industry. As designers, we need to keep updating our knowledge and stay ahead to make the most of these innovations.

When do you feel the most creative?

I get most creative when driving, at crowded parties, or in noisy environments I find concerts and stadiums to be great for sparking new ideas. Since these places aren’t always accessible, I use headphones and music for brainstorming and sketching, especially between midnight and 4 AM. The external noise combined with internal solitude creates a unique focus for me. However, for collaboration, I believe having a partner or a design team works best when there’s genuine warmth and communication, not just cold professionalism.

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

I don’t focus on a single point instead, I try to concentrate on whatever aspect of the design I'm working on at the moment, because if you think in a one dimensional way, it limits your creativity.

What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?

Any word to describe this feeling would diminish it, much like when, as a parent, you hold your child for the first time.

What makes a design successful?

A successful design is one that you pour your soul into, the kind that you personally want to have first, and proudly announce wherever you go, 'Hey! I’m the creator of this masterpiece.

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

The key question is, when solving a problem or performing a task, does this product introduce another problem? Or are the forms used in this product truly necessary in that place, or was an unnecessary step added to the production process? Earth only has 30% of its life in a living form. These things matter for the future.

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

God knows how much the environment around us, and the products within it, not only affect their functionality but also their appearance, influencing people's minds. And yes, the designer is responsible not just for the peace of mind that comes from the correct functionality of their products but also for maintaining an aesthetic that creates a sense of comfort and calm in the user's eyes, all while ensuring no harm to the environment. This should be the designer’s greatest responsibility, or rather, their top priority.

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

I believe design is moving in a positive direction, with the growing focus on sustainability and green design. It’s especially valuable to see students and emerging designers embracing this approach. If this attention continues to increase, we can gradually and consistently help save our world from destruction and guide it toward a better path. Designers play a key role in shaping public taste and trends across all design fields, so their influence is powerful over time.

When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?

I have not held an exhibition yet, but I look forward to organizing one in the future to showcase my work and connect with a wider audience.

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

I constantly observe the objects around me, even those used by others, and reflect on their strengths and weaknesses. I often pick up and examine items, thinking about how they could be improved. My first focus is always on how they can make people more comfortable and happier. Then I consider how nature, culture, or existing forms in human life can inspire the product’s improvement.

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?

My design approach focuses primarily on sustainability and green design, which naturally leads me toward minimalism. I also embrace deconstruction and human-centered design. For me, it’s essential that my creations not only function well but also provide visual and emotional comfort. My goal is to design products that bring people a sense of well-being, peace, and ease in their daily lives.

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?

I currently live in Iran, a country with immense potential for product improvement and innovation. While some challenges exist in terms of development opportunities, the country’s rich culture, diverse traditions, and breathtaking nature offer endless inspiration. The unique blend of history, symbols, and local lifestyles continually fuels my creativity and design thinking.

How do you work with companies?

My first step is to study the story and background of the partners. I then research the brand’s history and symbols. If there’s a brand slogan, I consider that highly important as well. Once I have a clear understanding of the brand, I analyze its challenges and needs. I then begin the design process, using the brand’s own language and identity to enhance its products in the most effective way.

What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?

The most important quality when selecting a designer is having a broad, multi dimensional perspective someone who doesn’t approach a problem from just one angle and is genuinely curious about the company’s challenges. Only after that should you focus on their skills and other qualifications.

Can you talk a little about your design process?

A deep understanding of the brand, its values, and the needs of its users is the starting point of my design process it forms the foundation upon which I build every stage of development.

What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?

The framed, disassembled iPhone 4S on my wall exemplifies design perfection compact, precise, and beautifully engineered. Microsoft’s ergonomic mouse, despite its plastic shell, shows clear ergonomic intent. The Sony XM5 meets daily needs with quiet efficiency. Apple Pencil (2nd gen) is elegantly functional, though heat buildup warrants improvement. The Xbox controller remains a standard in long term ergonomic comfort.

Can you describe a day in your life?

I usually wake without an alarm unless duty demands it. My day begins with a shower, breakfast, and a quiet mental reset. At work, I move from ideation to team discussions, followed by development. Evenings are spent in traffic, listening to music, podcasts, or catching up with a friend. Once home, I develop personal projects with music in the background, ending the night with a series or a round of FC25.

From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?

The only drawback, as a designer, is the weight of responsibility that comes with the work. A designer’s creation inevitably impacts the world for better or worse and that alone is a profound burden. There's also the pressure of public reception; a few negative reactions can be deeply discouraging. But, like professional footballers, designers must stay focused and prove their value over time. As for the positives being a designer means being a creator. And creation, in my view, is the most fulfilling and elevated experience one can have. It's the very essence of Maslow’s peak.

What is your "golden rule" in design?

For every problem that arises in the design process, there’s at least one, if not several, solutions. My golden rule in design is simple: the work must get done, and no excuse is acceptable for veering off course or neglecting the required performance. Sometimes, problems become our saviors, and with the right solution, we can create a new path and an even better design.

What skills are most important for a designer?

Creativity, boldness, optimism, being constructive, having an open mind, and embracing challenges and problems loving the hassle! Be a creator.

Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?

Paper and pen iPad Pro with Apple Pencil and Procreate Lenovo Legion or ASUS ROG laptop (ASUS for the office, Lenovo for home) SolidWorks KeyShot Photoshop Illustrator InDesign Premiere Pro

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

I try to advance up to three projects in one day. To give a simple example: In the morning, ideation for one project, modeling for another at noon, and rendering and presenting a third project in the afternoon.

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

Approximately 3/4 months, both intermittently and intensively, even up to 30 days.

What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?

The question of where ideas come from whether inspiration or thinking well, it’s clear that design follows a process. But occasionally, there are moments of inspiration, like when you're about to sleep, which is still a result of overthinking the relevant issues, naturally.

What was your most important job experience?

For Design world, it’s the Infinito project, but for me, it’s the Modulo and 7 projects my first projects where I was directly involved in both the design and production.

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

Almost the entire process is enjoyable for me, but brainstorming, sketching, and group ideation are the most rewarding. Then, product modeling brings me a special sense of calm, and finally, rendering offers me endless joy as I see and create the final result.

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

I prefer to focus on non lighting projects alongside lighting, and aim to present more projects if time management allows. I might even apply for a few major brands if I have the time.

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

In my view, teamwork is always better than working alone. I’ve had an excellent team with Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr so far, and I still do. But for the years ahead, alongside him, I would like to have other talented teams for new projects.

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

I prefer to discuss the design of projects after they are completed and presented to the world.

How can people contact you?

At the moment, I’m active across all major social media platforms. However, my preferred method of communication is via my professional email: Bayerstarkdesign@gmail.com. That said, I also dedicate time each day to check and respond to business inquiries on social media, so I’m accessible there as well.

Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?

For now, I don't have an opinion on this topic :) Perhaps in the near future.

Designer of the Day Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

I began my professional journey in lighting design the specialized branch of industrial design in the summer of 2023. My career started at HOBO Studio under the mentorship of Mr. Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr, and I continue to work there to this day. I entered university in 2020 to study industrial design, and I have been pursuing my academic education alongside my professional experience ever since.

How did you become a designer?

From an early age, I was deeply fascinated by creating new things. Whether it was the margins of my school notebooks or even the backs of my exam papers, they were often filled with sketches of cars or ideas that emerged from reimagining LEGO sets—always deviating from the instructions to build something better. But the turning point came when I was around eight years old, playing Gran Turismo with a friend. He casually said he wished he could design a car someday. Surprised, I asked, 'Wait, is that even a real job?' Until that moment, I had naively assumed that company owners designed their own products. That conversation sparked something profound in me. I decided, right then and there, that I wanted to become a designer—a car designer at BMW, my favorite automotive brand. Years later, that early passion led me to discover the field of industrial and product design during university.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

My design process consistently follows a four-phase structure 1 Research & Problem Identification I begin by thoroughly understanding the users’ needs, expectations, and pain points. This involves analyzing existing solutions, identifying gaps, and when necessary—developing new approaches or techniques to address the core issues. 2 Ideation & Concept Development This stage is closely intertwined with research. I explore potential functions and forms, translating insights into conceptual directions that balance innovation with practicality. 3 3D Modeling & Digital Testing I move on to precise digital modeling using engineering and design tools such as SolidWorks and KeyShot. These platforms also allow for early-stage simulations and performance evaluations within a virtual environment. 4 Prototyping & Iteration Physical or digital prototypes are tested and analyzed. If results don’t meet expectations, I’m fully prepared to revisit earlier phases refining and evolving the design until it reaches its optimal form.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

What feeling could possibly surpass the sense of being a creator? There’s a unique kind of fulfillment in envisioning an object in your mind, translating it onto paper, bringing it to life through digital modeling, watching it evolve into prototypes, and finally seeing it mass produced integrated into people's daily lives. I truly savor every moment of this journey. For me, it’s not just work it’s a deep, ongoing joy.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

Beyond technical skills, my greatest strengths lie in my mindset. I constantly seek lessons in every experience and never walk away without gaining insight. My open-minded approach allows me to explore ideas freely, embrace critique, and stay curious rather than judgmental. Most importantly, I’m not afraid to take risks because that’s where real innovation begins.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

Talking about the future is easy living up to it is the hard part. But I’ve always been drawn to hard things. That’s why I speak with confidence about what lies ahead: I aim to create something truly significant. Perhaps it’s to fulfill a promise I made to my 8 year old self to design and mass-produce a car. Or perhaps it’s to realize what I call a 'Mother Design' a foundational creation, much like what Steve Jobs achieved with the iPhone.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

Last year, I was invited to speak at Azad University, South Tehran Branch, to share my experiences with fellow students how to take the first step in starting their own careers. My message was simple: just say yes.Say you'll do it. Say you can handle it even when it feels beyond your reach. Then work hard enough to prove yourself right. As the character Dory once said in Finding Nemo, a film from our childhood, Just keep swimming. That’s the mindset. Just do it.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

If I had to say just one thing about achieving success in any aspect of life, it would be this: you have to love what you do and pour your heart into it. I have a personal motto that guides me through every project: Feel your design as your life, be your product as you are. Design isn't something I do it's something I live.

What is your day to day look like?

My days begin with quiet often accompanied by music, especially Hans Zimmer’s compositions which helps clear my mind. I spend the early hours imersed in research, observation, and visual exploration. Nature is a key source of inspiration for me; wildlife and plant documentaries often spark ideas, particularly in bionic design when fused with minimalism. As the day progresses, I move into ideation, sketching, and collaborative brainstorming with my team. I believe that creativity thrives in conversation. By evening, I recharge either by surrounding myself with the energy of crowds and spontaneous discussion or, when needed, through gaming and quiet reflection to reset my mind.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

It would be naive to say I never pay attention to trends but I don’t follow them blindly. I prefer to build product collections based on my own design language, occasionally drawing subtle influence from current movements. That said, good design is good design if a trend aligns with the context and elevates the work, I embrace it.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

To me, good design begins with responsibility first and foremost, to our planet. With only around 30 percent of Earth’s natural health remaining, I believe every design must be rooted in sustainability and aligned with green principles. Beyond that, a good design should solve problems without creating new ones for the user. It should do so with simplicity making complexity feel effortless. And importantly, form and color should harmonize with their surroundings, not feel like a visual intrusion. A well designed product belongs in its space it doesn’t scream for attention; it earns it.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

A design is never truly complete at least not in the absolute sense. If by 'complete' we mean a product that has fulfilled its intended purpose and is ready to serve in society, that’s a different discussion. But in the broader, idealistic sense of perfection, no product is ever truly finished. There’s always room for improvement; even the most refined designs today may be surpassed by something better next year. That said, a product reaches readiness when it fulfills its purpose, contributes meaningfully to progress in design, and makes you proud to look at it. At that point, it's not perfect but it is complete enough to matter.

What is your biggest design work?

I genuinely stand behind every project I’ve worked on except for one, which I won’t name out of respect for the teammates I had at that time. The project didn’t reach completion, but I value the experience nonetheless.That said, one project that truly stands out for me is Infinito. It’s the evolved and elevated version of my very first product to reach production. The concept of Infinito began to take shape from that early work and gradually matured into something much greater. That’s what makes it so special it marks both a personal and professional turning point.

Who is your favourite designer?

Steve Jobs! Yes, I know he was a founder and executive not formally trained in industrial or product design. But given his lifestyle, approach, and deep involvement in every stage of product development, from concept to execution, I consider him an extraordinary industrial design thinker. To me, he’s the best designer who was never academically a designer. Beyond that, I hold great admiration for the designer of the BMW 4 Series (428i) Nicolas Huet , a model I’ve long loved for its sculpted elegance. I also take deep pride in the work of Nader Faghihzadeh, especially his contributions to the BMW 6 Series his achievements as an Iranian in global automotive design are truly inspiring. And of course, how could I not mention the legendary Philippe Starck? A true visionary whose work continues to redefine what design can be.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

Design has made me more adaptable and observant. It has taught me to find beauty even in the most overlooked or unconventional things. More than that, it has helped me stay calm and grounded in all circumstances. I now enjoy the smallest moments and details of life not just emotionally, but analytically as sources of inspiration for my creative process. It has truly transformed the way I see the world.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

I believe the design workspace must be flexible and open. Creativity thrives on freedom and designers need the mental space to explore, question, and discover. In my view, teamwork is not optional in a design process it's essential. A strong design team is built on mutual comfort, open communication, and a sense of camaraderie. I often use humor as a way to create a warm, collaborative atmosphere because a rigid or tense environment can easily stifle innovation and suppress great ideas.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

When supporting other designers, I often draw from stories of successful individuals to remind them that hope is not a vague idea it’s real, present, and always waiting for those who are ready to act. I encourage them to face challenges with the mindset of: ‘Absolutely. I’ll do it.’ That attitude, in my experience, is the first step toward growth. Alongside this, I’ve often shared my skills in industrial design software freely, offering training and guidance to students and peers without expecting anything in return.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

Awards like the A’ Design Award empower designers by boosting their confidence and giving them the credibility to present their work to a global audience. They support meritocracy in the design world and help bring truly outstanding designers into the spotlight. I’m genuinely proud to have been part of this achievement first as a team member in the Modulo project led by Mr. Mohammad Mostafa Sharifian Mehr last year, and then this year as a team leader with Infinito. These experiences not only fuel personal motivation but also inspire other designers to aim higher. Seeing and studying winning projects also broadens our perspective on innovation and the future of design.

Extended Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

My academic journey in industrial design began around 2019 or 2020 at Azad University, Central Tehran Branch. I officially kicked off my professional career in product and lighting design in the spring or summer of 2023, joining HOBO as a designer.

How did you become a designer?

I've always had a deep passion for creating it's something that's been with me since childhood. I’ve never been one to follow instructions, even as a kid building LEGO sets. I’d always stray from the manuals to build something original new forms, new ideas. My school notebooks were filled not just with notes, but with sketches of futuristic products mostly cars and spacecraft. That drive to improve things and push boundaries has never left me.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

Becoming a designer was never a coincidence it’s been my choice for as long as I can remember, and I believe it always will be. In my view, there’s no profession more fulfilling than design. The act of creation of bringing something new into the world is, to me, the greatest joy there is.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

I approach design by observing products from angles most people overlook. I focus on subtle, often-ignored aspects and try to build meaningful solutions around them. While I firmly believe the world needs more sustainable products, I also understand that design can't rely on that alone. My work blends sustainability with minimalism and, at times, deconstruction deeply influenced by bionic design. Nature, after all, is the most flawless example of creation. In short, my work often integrates minimalist principles, elements of deconstructivism, sustainable design thinking, and inspirations drawn from the elegance of nature through bionic design. That’s the space I feel most alive in, and the type of design I wish to explore even further.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

Design or any craft, really requires an obsessive attention to detail. But if someone’s asking for the truth about growth and progress, here it is: you have to do the work. Not talk about it, not overthink it just do it. But do it only if you're absolutely sure you love it. Passion isn’t optional in this field; it’s the fuel that carries you through the hard days.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

A good designer creates beautiful, functional products. But for what I call a great Designer, there’s something more what I like to refer to as a (Mother Design). It’s a creation so impactful, it gives birth to entire categories beneath it. Think of the original iPhone Steve Jobs, whom I personally consider a designer in his own right, didn’t just launch a product he introduced a whole new paradigm. That’s the level of design I deeply admire and strive for.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

Good design, in my view, is one that performs its function flawlessly without creating any visual or environmental noise. Its form should feel so natural and appropriate that it never irritates the eye. Above all, a well designed product solves a problem without causing new ones in the process.

What is your day to day look like?

If I ever find the time, I’d love to design the House of Iranian Music a dedicated space for traditional Persian music performances. It’s a dream project where architecture and cultural identity could harmonize beautifully.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

One of my biggest goals and dreams in design is to lead the creation of a new generation of BMW’s 4, 6, and 8 Series sedans especially the 4 Series. Becoming the lead designer for these iconic cars would be a defining milestone in my career.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

Thinking and creating is always on my mind whether I’m at a concert, a party, the stadium, eating, at university, or work. I’m constantly observing random objects in my hands, studying their details to inspire product and design improvements. I always keep my environment comfortable and fun to maintain my creative freedom, because pressure tends to disrupt a designer’s mind. Also, wildlife documentaries are absolutely perfect for fueling creativity.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

Steve Jobs has been a major source of inspiration for me. He’s the greatest legend I know someone who truly redefined what it means to create with purpose, vision, and impact.

Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

About Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Infinito Light

Good Design Deserves Great Recognition

Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Designer of the Day Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Extended Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

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Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

About Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Infinito Light

Good Design Deserves Great Recognition

Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Designer of the Day Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Extended Interview with Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

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