Interviews med Roberta Rampazzo

I always focus on innovation. In this specific table I have played with the legs to create a unique product with rather simple lines.

The focus was to find the right proportions for the beauty and stability of the table.

In this case it is an ongoing process, as this table was released at Maison & Objet Paris last year (also other main furniture fairs), and this award will further enhance its visibility on the market.

The concept took just few days, on the other hand some months were spent on product development.

In this case it was pure inspiration.

A personal challenge to create a unique table with innovative shapes.

People looking for a table that easily fits in any decor style with simple and good design.

I am proud to say that the Illusion table is really unique. It is simple and elegant, and if you change the position of the legs it will be another table. There is no way to design a similar table.

The name reflects the final design and its infinite angles that looks like a Illusion.

The Illusion is a ludic table.

The challenge is to find the right material and thickness to give stability for the table.

I believe this table is a strong piece of furniture.

During the process I heard a few times that the table would not be stable, so I have learnt to follow my instincts, as well thinking outside the box to find solutions.

My father worked with creative direction and art, sparking my interest in the field. Through him, I was exposed to diverse approaches—both creative and rational—that enriched my education, including graphic design.

Growing up in a creative environment naturally led me to design. My passion for interior decor and creating furniture and objects solidified my career choice.

Becoming a designer was a natural choice influenced by my upbringing and personal interests.

I primarily design furniture and objects but would love to explore other areas, such as jewelry, food, and even clothing.

Study, observe the world around them, and be open to experimenting with different materials, styles, and influences.

Their ability to imbue pieces with emotion and meaning, going beyond function and aesthetics.

Good design transcends form and function; it should evoke emotions, foster connections, and reflect high quality and social values.

Good design enhances spaces, positively influences lives, and brings emotional and aesthetic comfort.

I would explore various possibilities across different industries.

I would love to design for some renowned companies I admire.

Simplicity, elegance, and emotional design.

I don’t have one specific influence but admire various designers and objects.

Curva Chair by Joaquim Tenreiro for its simplicity and elegance, as well as Thomas Heatherwick’s Spun Chair, which I find playful and emotionally engaging.

The Illusion Table is one of my favorites—it combines simplicity with boldness, concept, and emotion, almost like a sculpture.

To be a better designer, observe the world, study consistently, and design with people's physical and emotional needs in mind.

I might have been an architect or a chef.

Design is the fusion of form, function, and emotion, reflecting society and creating connections between objects and people.

Some close people supported me, but no one specific stands out.

A combination of study, hands-on experience, and everyday observation helped me grow as a designer.

Finding high-quality manufacturers and balancing conceptual and commercial pieces were significant challenges early in my career.

Authentically.

I’m currently developing collections and new partnerships. In the future, I aim to work across various industries and collaborations.

Create pieces that inspire and emotionally connect, contributing to people’s overall well-being.

Innovative, functional, and emotionally resonant designs.

Good design improves spaces, well-being, and meets both emotional and functional needs.

My current project is confidential, but it involves developing a new product type.

The Lovely Table gave me the most satisfaction because of its emotional and conceptual depth.

I hope for more accessible manufacturing technologies and processes in the design industry.

I believe the future of design lies in greater freedom for designers and consumers, driven by AI innovations and more responsible consumption of high-quality, emotionally resonant pieces.

Project timelines vary—some are deadline-driven, while others evolve more freely.

I start new projects by creating a concept, sketching freely, then defining shapes, materials, measurements, and technical details.

Design your life.

Trends emerge from societal behaviors, with design reflecting and adapting to those changes over time.

Technology plays a crucial role in making products feasible.

I use various 3D modeling software and technical detailing tools depending on the project’s complexity.

Colors, materials, and ambiance are essential in design to convey emotions and harmonize with spaces.

About the emotions and stories behind each piece.

When I see great new designs, I feel inspired and curious about their development process and emotional impact.

It depends on the project, but I strongly believe in partnerships—with companies or other designers.

My designs are a reflection of who I am as a person.

I can't name a specific book but draw from a wide variety of reading materials.

I honed my skills through study, observation, and practice.

If I could, I’d love to talk with Terence Conran, Norman Foster, or Oki Sato.

I’m delighted by the awards and recognition; they reflect appreciation for my work.

Favorite color: white; favorite food: seafood; favorite season: spring.

A funny moment was when someone doubted the functionality of Illusion Table—it works perfectly!

A great day involves inspiration, which keeps me motivated.

As a child, it wasn’t obvious I’d become a designer, but my interest in creativity suggested a similar path.

The infinite possibilities of the future excite me—let it unfold.

I’m a very spiritual, and every piece I create carries emotional significance, aiming to evoke feelings alongside functionality.

The influence of my father, who worked as an art director and advertiser, led me to pursue a career in the creative field. Throughout my life, I have held a strong fascination for decoration and furniture, which ultimately led me to specialize in product design. The concept of designing something and witnessing its transformation into a tangible product has always captivated my imagination.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Roberta Rampazzo is a London based Brazilian respected furniture designer whose work has gained recognition worldwide. Her collaborations with esteemed brands like Allez, Firma Casa, Decameron, Mosarte, Vermeil, and Objekto showcase her expertise and skill in creating exclusive pieces.

Roberta's work has been extensively featured in renowned magazines and websites, reaching over 25 countries. Publications such as Wallpaper, AD France, Frame, Elle Decoration, Marie Claire Maison, and Casa Vogue have showcased her creations. This global exposure attests to the quality and impact of her designs.

Her pieces stand out for their distinctive and striking style, crafted through a meticulous design process. Regardless of the product or materials used, each creation by Roberta possesses a unique appeal and a remarkable feminine sensibility, expressed in a captivating and emotive manner.

For Roberta, design transcends mere form and function, incorporating beauty and emotion. As a conscientious professional, she utilizes eco-friendly and high-quality materials, including certified wood. In doing so, her creations not only visually captivate but also respect the environment and promote sustainability.

In my view, design holds the power to evoke a meaningful emotional response and contribute positively to people's lives. I firmly believe that individuals often form deep connections with objects, which is why I consistently strive to infuse my creations with a profound sense of emotion.

While my passion primarily lies in furniture design, I also possess a keen interest in a diverse range of fields, including products, fashion, and food. This multifaceted curiosity allows me to draw inspiration from various sources and explore innovative design concepts across different industries.

I had the opportunity to create a table collection for Decameron, a prominent Brazilian company. The experience was truly remarkable, resulting in highly successful products that have remained part of their range even after 15 years. It was a testament to the enduring appeal and quality of the collection.

As an avid enthusiast of wood, I greatly appreciate its sustainable and inviting nature when utilized appropriately. However, I also find immense satisfaction in working with a diverse range of materials. I firmly believe that each material possesses its own unique beauty and distinct characteristics, providing endless opportunities for exploration and creative expression.

My primary focus is to create designs that are timeless and aesthetically pleasing, while also embodying the essential characteristics that define my work, such as innovation, bold lines, and evoking emotions. Although ideas may come to me spontaneously, I understand that the journey from the initial concept to the finished product is a meticulous and extensive process that requires careful development and refinement.

First and foremost, I must express my profound love for the art of designing. While it may sound cliché, I firmly believe that this unwavering passion serves as the foundation for creating exceptional designs. To me, design is far from a purely rational endeavor; it is an immersive experience where my soul and passion intertwine, allowing me to pour my heart into every project.

Witnessing the final results of my work is an immense pleasure that fills me with a profound sense of accomplishment. The feeling is truly awe-inspiring, knowing that I have brought an idea to life and transformed it into a tangible creation. It serves as a reminder of the purpose and fulfillment I find in my craft.

The true essence of design is realized when it establishes a deep emotional connection with the user. Without that sense of involvement, a product may lack significance. However, when a design resonates with the user, it becomes an integral part of their life, creating a profound impact and setting it apart from the rest. This ability to forge such a connection is what ultimately sets remarkable designs apart from the ordinary.

The emotional aspect of a product encompasses a wide range of elements, including its values, shape, materials, and many other factors. These components collectively contribute to the overall emotional experience and perception of the product. By carefully considering and incorporating these aspects into the design process, it becomes possible to create products that evoke specific emotions, resonate with users on a deeper level, and ultimately enhance their overall satisfaction and connection with the product.

The role of a designer extends beyond creating visually appealing products; it also entails incorporating sustainability into their designs. This involves making conscious choices regarding materials, addressing transportation issues, emphasizing quality and durability, and considering the genuine necessity of the product. However, it is important to recognize that responsibility for sustainability is not solely on the designer's shoulders. The consumer, who often drives the market, shares the responsibility to make sustainable choices. By fostering a collective awareness and commitment to sustainability, both designers and consumers can contribute to creating a more sustainable future.

Design has a promising future. Companies that are at vanguard are integrating design into every product stage, from conception to disposal. The AI will be a big chance in the world and of course in the design as well.

Milan Design Week

Indeed, those who work in the creative industry are constantly in a state of inspiration, finding inspiration in every moment. Books, magazines, the internet, and even everyday experiences serve as abundant sources of inspiration. With experience, one learns to synthesize ideas and direct them towards a specific path. This ability to distill and focus ideas becomes a valuable skill, allowing for the transformation of inspiration into actionable and purposeful creative endeavors. Experience refines the process of channeling inspiration, enabling creatives to navigate the vast array of ideas and shape them into meaningful and impactful outcomes.

I would describe my design style as one that embraces emotions and timelessness, characterized by strong and pure lines. By infusing my creations with a sense of emotion, I aim to elicit a deep response from the viewers or users of the design. At the same time, I strive for a timeless quality that transcends fleeting trends, ensuring that my designs possess longevity and relevance throughout the years. The use of strong and pure lines further adds a sense of clarity and purpose to my work, emphasizing the essential elements and creating a visually impactful aesthetic.

Being from Brazil and currently living in London, I have the privilege of experiencing the blend of two distinct cultural influences. Brazilians are known for their emotional nature, while European design is revered for its tradition and high quality. This fusion of cultural backgrounds offers a unique advantage, allowing me to draw inspiration from both worlds. I can harness the passion and emotional depth of my Brazilian roots and combine it with the refined craftsmanship and design principles synonymous with European traditions. This mix of influences creates a rich and diverse design perspective, enabling me to create truly remarkable and globally resonant designs.

I believe that establishing a shared understanding and alignment of values and design style between the designer and client is indeed a crucial first step. By agreeing on the fundamental principles and aesthetic preferences, it sets the foundation for a productive and harmonious collaboration. This shared vision ensures that the designer's work reflects the client's values, goals, and desired style, resulting in a final product that meets their expectations and resonates with their intended audience.

Always follow your heart and design with passion. When you let your heart guide your creative process, the results are bound to be remarkable. Designing with passion infuses your work with a sense of purpose and authenticity. It ignites a fire within you, driving you to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. So, trust your instincts, embrace your passion, and let it fuel your journey as a designer. Remember, the most exceptional designs are born from the heart.

A commonly emphasized "golden rule" in design is to prioritize and respect the customer or end user. This principle emphasizes the importance of understanding and meeting the needs, desires, and expectations of the target audience. By placing the customer at the center of the design process, designers can create solutions that are user-centric, intuitive, and relevant. This involves conducting thorough research, gathering feedback, and actively involving users throughout the design journey. Respecting the customer's perspective and valuing their experiences can lead to the creation of designs that truly resonate and provide meaningful value.

A good balance between emotional and rational aspects, combined with a creative mind, is indeed crucial in the field of design. Emotional aspects help designers connect with their audience on a deeper level, evoking feelings and establishing a strong emotional connection. Meanwhile, rational aspects bring structure, functionality, and usability to the design, ensuring that it meets the practical needs and requirements of the users. A creative mind allows for the generation of innovative and unique ideas, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and bringing fresh perspectives to the design process. Striking the right balance between these elements is key to creating designs that are both emotionally resonant and functionally effective.

My design process.

Firma Casa

Vermeil

Decameron

Mosarte

They can contact me through my website - www.robertarampazzo.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/robertarampazzodesign

Linked In - Roberta Rampazzo