Ionut Sur

Specialized in Lighting Design.

Ionut Sur

About Ionut Sur

  • Winner of the A' Design Award.
  • Specialized in Lighting Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Lighting
Prometheus ILight Pendant Light

Prometheus ILight Pendant Light

Lighting Design


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Interview with Ionut Sur

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?
My passion for design was born in my father's woodworking shop; because of the limited resources available to us we were forced to always improvise and think creatively. This led me to develop a passion for problem solving and acted as the foundation stone for my future as a designer.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I especially enjoy industrial design, because of the challenges and the complexity.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
It was a calendar witch presented (through drawings) the Art Nouveau architecture of my home town. This was in my first year of high school.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I enjoy working especially with wood and plastic. Wood because as a material is alive and demands respect; plastic because is very easy to use.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
When designing I try to focus on all the aspects at once, from ergonomics to marketing. If I focus only on a single aspect, problems soon emerge.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
For me the greatest feeling is when I can hold in my hands the project that has been "trapped' in my head.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
The future of design? As long as humanity will evolve, design will evolve at the same rate. Design will stop only when humanity will stop.
Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
Because of my current environment I develop all my designs myself. But I enjoy teamwork very much.

Extended Interview with Ionut Sur

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I studied Design starting from High School (High School of Art in Romania) and followed with the University of Art and Design up to my masters degree in design.
How did you become a designer?
I’ve always been drawn to problem-solving. Design allows me to take complex challenges and break them down into intuitive and effective solutions. Seeing something I’ve created make a difference in someone’s life is incredibly motivating, whether it’s simplifying an interface or creating a product that makes tasks easier
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
I definitely chose to become a designer. Ever since I was young, I’ve been drawn to creativity and problem-solving. Design felt like a natural path for me, and every step along the way has confirmed that it’s what I’m passionate about.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
To become a great designer, focus on mastering the fundamentals first. Then, keep evolving by learning new tools and trends. Always be curious, open to feedback, and willing to push boundaries.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
A good designer focuses on meeting the brief—delivering solutions that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. A great designer goes beyond that: they challenge the brief, consider the larger context, anticipate future needs, and create work that evokes emotion, tells a story, and inspires. Great designers have a combination of technical skill, empathy for the user, and the courage to take risks and innovate.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
A good design becomes a really good design when it achieves simplicity, functionality, and emotional resonance. It’s not just about how it looks but how it works, feels, and interacts with its audience. I evaluate good design by asking: Does it solve the problem it was intended to? Is it intuitive and accessible for its target audience? Does it evoke the intended reaction, whether joy, trust, or inspiration? If the design communicates effectively and leaves a lasting impression, it has succeeded.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Good design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating meaningful connections. A well-designed product or experience enhances usability, builds trust, and increases engagement. For businesses, good design translates to stronger brand loyalty, higher customer retention, and a competitive edge. By investing in good design, you’re not just creating something functional or beautiful; you’re creating something valuable and memorable that stands the test of time.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
I hope to start working (for some years now) on a floor lamp, also interactive, but the project is very complex because it involves a lot of moving parts.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
My secret ingredient is empathy. Truly understanding the needs, emotions, and goals of the people you’re designing for unlocks the most innovative and effective solutions. Combine that with curiosity, a love for problem-solving, and the willingness to iterate endlessly until it feels right—that’s the recipe for success.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
I’m deeply inspired by Dieter Rams for his principles of simplicity and functionality, Paula Scher for her boldness in typography, and Eileen Gray for her timeless approach to furniture design. Each of them embodies a unique perspective, and their work reminds me that design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating meaning and impact.
What is your biggest design work?
I’m fascinated by Massimo Vignelli’s work on the New York City subway map. It’s a masterpiece of clarity and structure, proving that good design can simplify even the most complex systems. I also admire Jony Ive’s work on Apple products—minimal, elegant, and completely user-centered. These designs resonate with me because they balance beauty and functionality effortlessly.
Who is your favourite designer?
My greatest design is The Prometheus pendant light featured in this competition. It wasn’t just about creating something visually appealing—it engaged users, streamlined a process.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
To improve as a designer, you need to stay curious and keep learning. Study great design from the past, keep up with current trends, and seek feedback from others. I personally improved by experimenting constantly, taking on challenging projects, and being open to critique.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
Probably what I am doing now I run a business and a lot of CNC work.
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Design is the process of solving problems creatively while considering both functionality and aesthetics. For me, design is about creating experiences and making life better, whether it’s through visual communication, a product, or an environment. It’s about connecting people and ideas through thoughtful, purposeful creation.

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