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GCA Design Studio

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Interviews with GCA Design Studio

Read the interviews with GCA Design Studio: understand their philosophy, creative process and award-winning work.

Designer Profile

We have several interviews with GCA Design Studio.

They are published in English only and are shown below in their original language.

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Design Legend Interview

50 questions

I studied Industrial Product Design at Gazi University in Ankara and graduated in 2013. Since then, I have worked across different areas of industrial and product design, with a strong focus on glass packaging.

Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

I studied Industrial Product Design at Gazi University in Ankara and graduated in 2013. Since then, I have worked across different areas of industrial and product design, with a strong focus on glass packaging.

What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

I think I became a designer because I have always been curious about why things are the way they are and how they could be better. For me, design is a way of solving problems, but also a way of creating meaning and emotion around everyday objects.

Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

I definitely chose it. I always enjoyed drawing, making hand crafted things and observing objects. Industrial design felt like the perfect combination of creativity, problem-solving and the physical world.

What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

My main field is packaging design, especially glass packaging for food, beverage and spirits brands. I particularly enjoy projects where the packaging itself becomes part of the brand identity rather than simply being a container. I would love to work more on projects where material, manufacturing technology, sustainability and brand storytelling come together.

What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

Stay curious, observe everything, learn how things are actually made, understand business and listen to people outside the design world. And most importantly, develop your own point of view.

What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

A good designer can solve a problem. A great designer can identify the problem behind the problem.

I also think great designers are able to balance creativity with reality. They understand the user, the business, the technology, the materials and the cultural context.

What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

For me, good design has three qualities: it should be relevant, meaningful and appropriate. I ask myself whether the design solves the right problem, whether it communicates something clearly, and whether it has a reason to exist.

What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

In packaging, a few millimeters, a curve, a material decision or a small detail can completely change how a product is perceived. Good design is not simply an expense. It is an investment in how a brand is experienced and remembered.

What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

I would focus on everyday products that people use regularly but often overlook, especially household objects. These products have the potential to improve daily routines through small but meaningful details.

What is the dream project you haven't yet had time to realize?

I would love to create a completely new glass packaging system. A system that considers production, transportation, reuse, recycling, user experience and brand identity from the very beginning.

What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

I don't think there is a magic formula. You have to keep questioning, keep learning and keep improving the work even when you are already tired of looking at it. And one more ingredient: caring about the details that nobody notices consciously.

Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

There are many, but I have always admired designers who were able to create a strong philosophy rather than simply a recognizable style.

What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

I love the simplicity and emotional intelligence of Naoto Fukasawa's works.

What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

One of the projects I am particularly proud of is the Avoya mineral water bottle. What makes it special to me is that the form, proportions, glass material, color and brand positioning were developed together. It was also very rewarding to see the project receive international recognition, including Red Dot Award. But more importantly, seeing the bottle actually produced and experienced in the market is what makes me proud.

How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

I believe designers improve by designing, but also by looking beyond design. I spent a lot of time learning about materials, manufacturing processes, business, branding and consumer behavior. Working directly with manufacturers has taught me things that I could never have learned only from a design studio.

If you hadn't become a designer, what would you have done?

I have always been interested in making and creating things, so perhaps I would have ended up somewhere close to architecture, art or engineering.

How do you define design, what is design for you?

For me, design is ultimately about creating value through thoughtful decisions, while also recognizing the boundaries within which those decisions must exist.

Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

No designer reaches anywhere alone. Throughout my career, I have been supported by colleagues, mentors, clients, manufacturers and of course, my family.

What helped you to become a great designer?

Experience. Not just the number of years, but the number of different problems you encounter during those years.

What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

One of the biggest challenges was learning that a good idea is not enough. In the real world, design has to work within budgets, technologies, production limitations, timelines, regulations and business expectations.

How do you think designers should present their work?

They should tell the story behind the design. Don't only show the final beauty shot. Explain the problem, the insight, the exploration, the decisions and why the final solution makes sense.

What's your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

I am increasingly interested in projects that connect packaging design with strategy, sustainability and manufacturing innovation.

What's your ultimate goal as a designer?

I want to create designs that people genuinely value, use and remember.

What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

I think people expect consistency, originality and responsibility.

How does design help create a better society?

Actually, design shapes everyday life. From the products we use to the way information is communicated and the systems we interact with, design influences our behavior and expectations. Good design can make things more accessible, inclusive, understandable and sustainable.

What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

I am particularly excited about the development of GCA Design Studio, where we respond to clients’ bespoke design needs and develop customized glass packaging solutions tailored to their brands.

Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

The projects that gave me the most satisfaction are usually the ones where there was a real challenge behind them. Avoya is one of them, because we were able to connect a distinctive form with glass production and a strong brand story.

What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

I would like to see designers involved much earlier in decision making. Design is often invited at the end of the process, when the important decisions have already been made.

Where do you think the design field is headed next?

I think the boundaries between industrial design, technology, branding and engineering will become increasingly blurred. AI will change how designers generate and explore ideas, but I don't believe it will eliminate the need for designers. The value of designers will increasingly come from asking the right questions, making judgments and understanding human needs.

How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

It depends completely on the project. A simple packaging project can take weeks, while a complex industrial or glass packaging project can take months or even longer.

When you have a new design project, where do you start?

I start with questions, not sketches. Who is it for? What problem are we solving? What is the business objective? What already exists? What can we change? Only after understanding the context do I start thinking about form.

What is your life motto as a designer?

“Make it meaningful.”

Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

I think it works both ways. Design responds to cultural and technological changes, but good design can also influence culture and create new behaviors.

What is the role of technology when you design?

Technology is a tool, not the purpose. It expands what we can imagine and manufacture, but technology alone doesn't create good design.

What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

I use a combination of 2D and 3D design tools, including Rhino and Adobe CC, together with rendering, visualization and prototyping tools.

What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

They are fundamental because people experience objects with all their senses.

What do you wish people to ask about your design?

I would love to ask what they felt. What did this design make them feel? Did it create a sense of curiosity, familiarity or emotion? For me, understanding how people emotionally experience a design is just as important as knowing what they think about its form or function.

When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

My first reaction is usually curiosity. I immediately start wondering: Why did the designer make this decision? How was it manufactured? What problem were they solving? What could have been done differently?

Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

Absolutely. My ideal partner is someone who is open-minded, curious and willing to challenge ideas rather than simply approve them.

Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

Working closely with people who know materials and production deeply has changed the way I design. It taught me to respect the intelligence of the manufacturing process.

Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

Books about design philosophy, psychology, creativity, architecture and human behavior have probably influenced me more than technical design books.

How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

There is no shortcut to developing design judgment. You have to sketch hundreds of ideas, make mistakes, receive criticism, present work, negotiate with clients and see your designs manufactured.

Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

I would love to have a long conversation with Leonardo da Vinci. Not only because of his artistic genius, but because he represents the kind of multidisciplinary curiosity I admire. I would want to ask him how he approached problems when nobody had established rules for solving them.

How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

Awards are wonderful because they validate the effort of a team and help a project reach a wider audience. But the greatest reward is still seeing a design become real, go into production and have a meaningful life in the market. And I don't consider myself “famous.” I simply feel fortunate to have my work recognized internationally.

What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

My favorite color changes depending on the context, but I am generally drawn to deep, muted and natural tones. I love places with a strong sense of history and character, especially cities where old and new coexist. As for food, I am definitely a Mediterranean person. My favorite season is autumn.

Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

One of the funny things about being an industrial designer is that you eventually start looking at everything around you as a design problem. I have caught myself analyzing the shape of a bottle, the ergonomics of a door handle or the opening mechanism of a package while everyone else was simply enjoying their day.

What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

There is something very satisfying about starting the morning with a problem that seems difficult and ending the day with a new possibility.

When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

I was always curious about how things worked, and I liked drawing and making things. Looking back, I can see the signs. At the time, I simply thought I was playing.

What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

A thousand years is almost impossible to imagine. But I hope that despite all the technological changes, humans will still value beauty, curiosity, creativity and meaningful experiences.

Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

I don't really see myself as someone who has reached the end of the journey. I am still learning, still questioning and still making mistakes.

Designer Interview

17 questions

GCA Design Studio is the creative hub of GCA – Gürallar Cam Ambalaj, one of Turkey’s leading glass packaging manufacturers with a strong international presence.

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

GCA Design Studio is the creative hub of GCA – Gürallar Cam Ambalaj, one of Turkey’s leading glass packaging manufacturers with a strong international presence. Established to bridge design and manufacturing under one roof, our studio focuses on holistic packaging design, encompassing bottle structures, closures, and graphic design elements. Supported by Gürok Group’s 30+ years of manufacturing experience, we brings flexibility, aesthetics, and reliability to clients.

We operate as a multidisciplinary team made up of industrial designersa and graphic designers. What makes our work unique is the seamless collaboration with in-house engineering, mold development, and production departments. This integrated approach allows us to ensure that every concept we develop is not only visually compelling but also production-ready and aligned with market demands.

Our studio has been recognized for its innovative approach, most recently receiving an A’ Design Award in the Packaging Design category, which reflects our commitment to design excellence at both a creative and technical level.

We primarily serve premium spirits, food and beverage sectors, working with both global brands and boutique producers. At GCA Design Studio, we view packaging not just as a container, but as a powerful medium for storytelling, brand differentiation, and sustainable innovation. Here, creativity is not an isolated phase—it’s part of a continuous dialogue between strategy, design, and manufacturing.

What makes a design successful?

A successful design is one that creates a meaningful connection between the brand, the user, and the context in which it exists. At GCA Design Studio, we believe success lies in the intersection of functionality, aesthetics, and purpose.

In packaging design especially, success means more than just looking visually appealing. It must communicate the brand story clearly, stand out on the shelf, and function seamlessly—from the production line to the consumer’s hands. It should also consider sustainability, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness without compromising quality or innovation.

But perhaps most importantly, a successful design feels inevitable—as if it couldn’t have been designed any other way. It solves a problem, evokes emotion, and leaves a lasting impression.

We measure success not only by market response or awards, but also by how well the design holds up over time—technically, commercially, and culturally.

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

The first thing I look for is clarity of intent—does the design serve its purpose effectively, and is it aligned with the brand’s values and target audience? A good design should communicate the right message at a glance, while also delivering a seamless user experience.

Functionality comes next. Particularly in packaging design, a product might look beautiful, but if it’s not ergonomic, not feasible to produce, or doesn’t protect its contents well, it cannot be considered successful.

I also evaluate the originality and coherence of the design. Does it offer a fresh perspective without being different for the sake of it? Do the form, material, and graphic elements feel unified and meaningful?

Finally, I consider sustainability and scalability. A truly good design should be mindful of environmental impact and adaptable for real-world production conditions.

In short, I look for a balance between strategic thinking, technical performance, and emotional appeal—when those elements come together, the design speaks for itself.

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

As designers, we carry a significant responsibility—not only to the brands we serve but also to the society we design for and the environment we draw resources from. At GCA Design Studio, we believe that good design goes beyond aesthetics or functionality. It must also be responsible, inclusive, and sustainable.

From an environmental perspective, our role is to minimize waste, prioritize recyclablity, and design with longevity and circularity in mind. Especially in packaging, every design decision—from form choice to weight, from production methods to end-of-life scenarios—has an environmental impact. We take this seriously, and as part of a manufacturing company, we have the opportunity to implement sustainable thinking directly into the industrial process.

From a societal perspective, designers have the power to influence behavior, improve accessibility, and create emotional connections through the objects we create. That’s why we strive to design packaging that’s not only functional and beautiful but also communicates clearly, feels intuitive to use, and respects the cultural and ethical context it will live in.

Ultimately, our responsibility is to design not just for today, but for the future—to create value without creating unnecessary harm.

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

The design field is undergoing a significant transformation—becoming more interdisciplinary, more strategic, and more accountable. In the past, design was often seen as a finishing touch. Today, it’s recognized as a critical driver of innovation, sustainability, and brand differentiation.

At GCA Design Studio, we observe that design is increasingly shifting from purely visual solutions to system-based thinking. Designers are now expected to navigate complex challenges—balancing aesthetics, user experience, environmental responsibility, and production feasibility—all within the same project.

One of the biggest changes is the growing role of sustainability. The future of design demands that we move beyond superficial green claims to real, measurable impact. This means rethinking materials, minimizing waste, and considering the entire lifecycle of a product—especially in packaging, where design decisions directly affect recyclability and resource consumption.

Technology is also reshaping how we work. AI-assisted design tools, rapid prototyping, and digital twins are accelerating workflows and enabling more experimentation early in the process. But alongside that, there’s also a growing appreciation for authenticity, craft, and storytelling. The most successful designs will be those that combine innovation with emotional resonance.

In short, the future of design will belong to those who can think across disciplines, act responsibly, and design not just for today—but for the world we want to live in tomorrow.

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

Inspiration for us comes from a wide range of sources—both structured and spontaneous. At GCA Design Studio, we closely follow global packaging trends, innovations, and consumer behavior shifts, within the food and beverage sector, with a strong focus on premium spirits.

We regularly visit trade fairs and design weeks which help us stay in tune with both creative movements and technical advancements. Internally, we maintain a dynamic visual archive and material library, where the team shares inspiring references, samples, and case studies. One of our key internal tools is Eclectic, our own trend magazine that we curate to explore sector news, global launches, emerging materials, and evolving aesthetics. It serves as both a creative archive and a source of strategic foresight for our team and our clients.

We also draw inspiration from art, architecture, nature, and cultural heritage—anything that offers a meaningful narrative through form, texture, or symbolism. Our design process is further enriched through cross-functional collaboration. Conversations with clients, engineers, and marketing teams often unlock unexpected ideas, especially when we’re balancing creative ambition with technical feasibility.

Lastly, we believe that creativity requires space and discipline. We encourage time for sketching, prototyping, research, and observation—whether through internal workshops or simply stepping back to see things differently. Creativity isn’t a one-time spark; it’s something we continuously cultivate through curiosity and connection.

How do you work with companies?

At GCA Design Studio, we believe that successful design outcomes are rooted in strategic collaboration. Our process begins by understanding the company’s brand values, market positioning, and technical needs. Whether we’re designing a bespoke bottle, closure, or complete packaging system, we approach each project with a tailored mindset.

We typically start with a discovery and briefing phase, where we align with the client’s expectations, target audience, and commercial goals. From there, we move into concept development, supported by market data, visual research, form exploration. At every key stage, we share visuals, mock-ups, and presentations for feedback—ensuring that the client remains actively involved throughout the journey.

One of our strengths is being embedded in a production-driven environment. This means we collaborate not only with brand teams, but also directly with our technical, marketing, and manufacturing departments, ensuring that the final design is both compelling and feasible for mass production.

Whether the company is launching a new product or refreshing an existing one, our goal is to act as both a creative partner and a strategic guide, helping bring ideas to life in a way that’s aesthetically strong, technically sound, and aligned with the brand’s long-term vision.

Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?

My first piece of advice would be: stay curious and stay humble. Design is not just about having good taste or mastering software—it’s about asking the right questions, understanding real-world needs, and constantly learning from your surroundings. Be open to feedback, observe how things are made, and try to understand the constraints as much as the possibilities.

Secondly, don’t be afraid of the “boring” parts of the process—technical drawings, feasibility meetings, or revisions are just as crucial as mood boards and sketches. Great design happens when creativity meets real-world application.

Also, try to build a strong foundation in both form and storytelling. Especially in fields like packaging, it’s important to create something that not only looks good but communicates meaning and creates connection.

Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Collaboration will teach you as much as solitude, and both are needed.

Finally, remember that your work has an impact. Whether it’s through sustainability, accessibility, or emotional resonance, design is a tool for change. Use it consciously.

What skills are most important for a designer?

From my perspective, one of the most critical skills for a designer is the ability to think holistically—balancing creativity with functionality, and aesthetics with feasibility. Especially in packaging design, it’s essential to understand not only form and visual communication but also how materials, production methods, and user experience come together in the final product.

Beyond technical proficiency in design tools, strong communication and collaboration skills are key. Designers need to be able to listen, interpret brand needs, and work across disciplines—from marketing teams to engineers and production experts. At GCA, we also place a high value on curiosity and adaptability. The landscape of materials, sustainability standards, and consumer expectations is constantly evolving, and a great designer stays ahead by asking questions, embracing change, and never losing sight of the end user.

Ultimately, successful design stems from the ability to translate strategy into emotion—creating something that not only looks good, but feels right and performs well.

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

I see our toolbox as a blend of digital precision, tactile experimentation, and conceptual exploration. On the technical side, we use industry-standard softwares such as SolidWorks and Rhinoceros 3D for structural design, and Adobe Creative Suite—particularly Illustrator and Photoshop—for graphic design and label development. For advanced visualization and realistic renders, we also rely on tools like KeyShot.

In terms of hardware, we frequently use 3D printers, CNC prototypes, and mock-up techniques to test form, ergonomics, and production feasibility. Physical modeling still plays an important role in our process—it allows us to evaluate scale, proportion, and texture in ways screens can’t always capture.

But our toolbox goes beyond just software and machines. We draw creative inspiration from material libraries, trend reports, art and design books, museums, and even field visits to production lines. Understanding manufacturing capabilities firsthand is essential for us. Additionally, we keep a close eye on global packaging innovations, particularly in premium spirits, beauty, and gourmet food sectors, to stay aligned with international trends and sustainability movements.

Lastly, we believe that conversation is a tool in itself—whether it's with our clients, engineering teams, or fellow designers. A successful project often starts with the right questions.

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

Design by nature is iterative—it requires exploration, refinement, and at times, stepping back to see the bigger picture. To manage this effectively, we work with clearly defined project timelines, milestones, and review checkpoints, which allow us to structure the creative process without compromising its depth.

Internally, we prioritize early alignment with all stakeholders—clients, engineers, and production teams—to reduce revisions and prevent delays later in the process. I also encourage the team to adopt a modular mindset: breaking down complex design challenges into manageable stages and addressing each with focused intent.

Personally, I make space for both deep work and quick feedback loops throughout the week. Creative work needs periods of uninterrupted focus, but it also benefits from moments of collaboration and input. I’ve found that managing energy is just as important as managing time—knowing when to push, when to pause, and when to let an idea evolve naturally.

Ultimately, good time management in design is not about rushing—it’s about knowing where to spend your time to create the most meaningful impact.

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

The duration of a design project can vary significantly depending on the scope, complexity, and the level of customization required—but generally, at GCA Design Studio, a full packaging design process takes anywhere from 6 weeks to several months.

We begin with a discovery phase, which includes understanding the brand, market positioning, technical requirements, and production constraints. This is followed by concept development, where we explore form, functionality, and graphic elements in parallel. After internal reviews, we align with the client at key milestones through structured presentations and feedback rounds. Depending on the pace of client approvals and the number of iterations, this creative phase typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.

Once the design is finalized, we move into technical detailing and production feasibility studies, where we collaborate closely with our engineering and manufacturing teams. This stage ensures the concept can be efficiently produced at scale and meet performance requirements. Including mock-ups or 3D prototypes, the full timeline may extend to 10–16 weeks for a complete, production-ready solution.

Ultimately, we see time not just as a schedule to follow but as a framework to ensure both creativity and precision are given the space they need to result in a successful, brand-aligned product.

Who are some of your clients?

At GCA Design Studio, we are proud to collaborate with a range of distinguished clients across the beverage and spirits industries, as well as other premium sectors. Our portfolio includes partnerships with leading companies such as Mey Diageo, and brands like VOSS where we’ve contributed to high-profile packaging projects that emphasize quality and innovation.

We also work with both established global brands and emerging craft producers, helping them translate their unique stories into impactful design solutions. While we maintain confidentiality agreements with many of our clients, our ongoing relationships reflect the trust placed in us to deliver premium, functional, and market-relevant packaging designs.

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

At GCA Design Studio, we’re entering an exciting phase of growth and ambition. Looking ahead, one of our key priorities is to expand our presence internationally, both through global collaborations and by positioning ourselves more prominently in the premium spirits design landscape. This is an area where we see strong synergy between craftsmanship, storytelling, and material innovation—and we believe we have a unique contribution to make.

We also aim to participate more actively in international design award programs, as a way to benchmark our work, gain visibility, and engage with the global design community. Recent recognitions, like the A’ Design Award, have encouraged us to continue pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve as a cross-functional design and production team.

In parallel, we plan to deepen our investment in sustainable design practices, material innovation, and trend research, as well as expand the reach of our in-house publication, Eclectic, which has become a valuable tool for both inspiration and strategic insight.

Ultimately, our vision is to grow as a recognized creative partner for global brands, especially in the premium packaging space—delivering designs that are not only visually impactful but also forward-thinking and responsible.

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

As the lead of our design processes, I guide the creative direction and ensure alignment between the client’s vision and our design strategy. However, our work is very much team-based. At GCA Design Studio, we operate as a multidisciplinary team composed of experienced product and graphic designers who collaborate closely throughout every stage of development.

We also work hand-in-hand with our production and engineering departments, which is a critical part of our process. This cross-department collaboration ensures that our concepts are not only visually impactful but also technically feasible and optimized for large-scale manufacturing. Additionally, we involve our clients at key milestones, valuing their input and ensuring that each design genuinely reflects their brand identity and market positioning. This integrated approach is what allows us to deliver cohesive, high-quality packaging solutions that perform both aesthetically and functionally.

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

Yes, we’re currently engaged in a number of integrated packaging projects for the premium spirits sector—designing the bottle, closure, and label as a unified system. These projects are particularly exciting as they allow us to approach packaging holistically, ensuring every component works together to reflect the brand’s identity and elevate the overall consumer experience.

Sustainability is also a key focus. We're exploring refined glass forms and responsible material choices that not only meet aesthetic and technical expectations but also align with the growing demand for environmentally conscious design. While the details are still under development, these works-in-progress represent a thoughtful balance between craftsmanship, functionality, and long-term impact.

How can people contact you?

You can reach GCA Design Studio by emailing Sule Esra Cetinkaya at suleesra.cetinkaya@gca.com.tr. We're always happy to connect regarding design collaborations, packaging projects, or any creative inquiries. You can also learn more about our work through www.gca.com.tr.

Grand Interview

Avoya Glasverpackung · 10 questions

From a functional perspective, the subtly conical silhouette of the Avoya glass packaging enhances ergonomics by guiding the hand naturally to the center of the bottle.

Your innovative approach to Avoya Glass Packaging's narrowing form beautifully merges ergonomics with symbolism - could you elaborate on how this design decision enhances both the functional experience and brand storytelling?

From a functional perspective, the subtly conical silhouette of the Avoya glass packaging enhances ergonomics by guiding the hand naturally to the center of the bottle. This form makes holding, drinking from, and pouring the bottle easier and more comfortable. In terms of brand storytelling, the gently tapering, unembellished shape is more than just an aesthetic choice, it is a meaningful expression. It reflects Avoya’s core values of elegance, purity, and simplicity. Representing the functional power of minerals, this minimal yet distinctive design becomes a quiet but compelling ambassador of Avoya’s promise.

The research indicating 67% of Turkish consumers prioritizing health-oriented products clearly influenced Avoya Glass Packaging - how did these consumer insights shape your specific material choices and design elements?

The Avoya bottle is made from high-quality, 100% recyclable flint glass, a deliberate material choice that directly supports health-conscious consumer preferences. This type of glass stands out for its clarity and for being chemically inert, ensuring no interaction with food or beverages. It aligns perfectly with the expectations of health-oriented consumers by offering a pure, safe, and sustainable packaging solution, free from the harmful contaminants often associated with plastic. From a design perspective, visual clarity and purity were emphasized to reflect the clean and natural quality of the contents. The minimalist, engraving-free form was carefully crafted to convey sophistication while preserving the perception of cleanliness and simplicity.

The integration of circular icons in Avoya Glass Packaging's label design creates a powerful visual metaphor for renewal - what inspired this particular symbolic language and how does it connect to the broader brand narrative?

The integration of circular graphics into the Avoya Glass Packaging label is a direct reflection of the core themes embedded in the brand’s narrative; renewal, continuity, and the natural cycle. These circular elements are not merely decorative, they are intentional visual metaphors that convey the promise of both inner and outer revitalization. Prominently positioned on the main section of the label, the clean and simple renewal symbol reinforces Avoya’s slogan: “Sende bi’ yenilik var” (“There’s a renewal in you”). This visual language emphasizes that Avoya is not just a beverage, but a catalyst for transformation, clarity, and balance. At the center of the circle, vivid imagery of the product’s natural ingredients further strengthens the message of renewal. These carefully selected visuals highlight the purity and functional strength of the contents while providing consumers with clear and transparent information about what they are consuming.

Considering the challenge of achieving a lightweight bottle design while maintaining production criteria for Avoya Glass Packaging, what innovative solutions did you implement to balance these competing demands?

One of the most significant technical challenges we faced while developing the Avoya bottle was achieving a lightweight design that would still meet stringent durability and production criteria. To strike this balance, we adopted a series of innovative, precision-focused solutions. A key step in this process was strategically optimizing the glass distribution throughout the bottle. This was carried out in close collaboration with GCA’s highly experienced production teams and engineers. While the bottle’s gently tapered silhouette offers visual elegance, it also serves a functional purpose in manufacturing: the narrowing form was designed with production-friendly angles that allow for reduced weight while maintaining structural integrity without increasing glass density. Additionally, the relatively narrow shoulder area was shaped to minimize glass usage and enhance production efficiency. The lightweight structure not only offers cost advantages in production and logistics, but also aligns seamlessly with Avoya’s brand philosophy centered on naturalness, purity, and sustainability. As a result, we developed a packaging solution that is both highly competitive in the market and a strong visual and functional expression of the brand’s identity.

The development of Avoya Glass Packaging spans three distinct sizes with different glass colorations - could you share the strategic thinking behind these variations and how they enhance the product experience?

The development of the Avoya bottle in three different sizes (20 cl, 25 cl, and 75 cl) and various glass colorations was a strategic decision aimed not only at offering functional variety, but also at enriching the user experience, enhancing shelf presence, and deepening the brand narrative. Each volume was carefully planned to respond to different moments and needs in consumers' lives. The 20 cl and 25 cl bottles are ideal for individual consumption or on-the-go use. The 75 cl medium size was selected for everyday table use or shared drinking occasions. These volume choices were made in line with familiar market formats and with consideration for existing consumer habits. Glass coloration choices were directly aligned with the product’s content and its intended context of use. The Blend Series, which features the natural strength of fruit extracts, is presented in clear flint glass. This transparency reveals the vibrant colors of the real fruit inside, creating a direct and trustworthy visual connection between the consumer and the product. For the classic sparkling mineral water, a traditional deep green glass was chosen. This color references the established aesthetic codes of the category while serving a functional purpose, protecting the contents from light and helping to preserve the mineral integrity. The Signature Series, known for its smooth and lightly sparkling profile, is presented in soft aquamarine-toned glass. This unique hue subtly evokes the product’s connection to nature and the geological richness of its source. At the same time, it delivers a distinctive yet elegant presence on the shelf or table, creating an emotional connection with the consumer.

Your work on Avoya Glass Packaging demonstrates remarkable attention to sustainability - how did environmental considerations influence your design decisions throughout the development process?

Sustainability is a core guiding principle in all packaging development processes at the GCA Design Studio. This approach has been instrumental throughout the design of Avoya Glass Packaging—placing environmental sensitivity at the heart of every decision, from material selection and form development to production efficiency and aesthetic choices. Glass, being infinitely recyclable, stands out as an ideal material that serves both environmental responsibility and the principle of circularity. Additionally, to further minimize environmental impact, we implemented a lightweighting strategy for the bottle. Through structural optimization, we reduced the glass weight without compromising durability. By intelligently planning the distribution of glass throughout the bottle, we ensured that less raw material and energy are used in both production and logistics. As a result, we achieved a design with a significantly lower carbon footprint.

The Bronze A' Design Award recognition highlights Avoya Glass Packaging's innovative approach - what aspects of the design do you believe most strongly exemplify the balance between creativity and practicality?

One of the most compelling examples is the bottle’s distinctive narrowing silhouette. This form is not only visually elegant and symbolic—evoking renewal, purity, and the natural flow of water—but also highly ergonomic, guiding the hand for a more comfortable grip and precise pour. It demonstrates how sculptural beauty can serve a clear functional purpose. Rather than relying on excessive embellishments, Avoya communicates its premium positioning through transparency and minimalism, aligning with modern consumer values around authenticity and eco-consciousness. Hence, by aligning color, size, and series identity, we created a cohesive yet layered product range that meets varied consumer needs—from everyday hydration to premium gifting—while reinforcing the core values of purity, sustainability, and design excellence that define Avoya. In essence, Avoya doesn’t just look innovative—it works beautifully in the real world. This blend of aesthetic storytelling, user-centered functionality, and production intelligence is precisely what makes it a standout in the eyes of both design juries and conscious consumers.

Avoya Glass Packaging's premium positioning is reflected in its sophisticated silhouette - how did you approach translating the concept of "renewal and vitality" into tangible design elements?

For us, these concepts are not abstract ideals—they are deeply tied to the origin, purpose, and emotional promise of the product. Avoya is more than just mineral water; it’s a daily ritual of replenishment, clarity, and natural energy. The foundation of this translation lies in the bottle’s sophisticated silhouette—a gracefully narrowing form that evokes the motion of a mineral spring emerging from the earth. This movement isn’t just visual—it’s tactile. When held, the bottle guides the hand naturally, making the act of drinking feel elevated, intuitive, and connected to the body. Finally, we approached sustainability not as an add-on, but as a core expression of renewal. The lightweight structure, recyclable materials, and minimalist label all reflect our belief that true vitality includes respect for the natural cycle—from earth to bottle and back again. In every decision, we asked: Does this form energize? Does it restore? Does it tell the story of nature’s intelligence? With Avoya, we aimed to embody renewal and vitality not just in symbolism, but in every physical and emotional interaction with the product. Every design element, from the carefully chosen glass hues to the tactile feel in hand, was guided by the idea that renewal is not only a function of what’s inside the bottle—but also how it’s experienced visually and physically. Avoya’s form becomes a vessel for both purity and transformation, embodying its premium position through refined elegance through form and detail and purposeful design.

The collaboration between bottle design and label design teams for Avoya Glass Packaging must have been intricate - could you describe how this partnership influenced the final outcome?

The collaboration between the bottle design and label design teams for Avoya Glass Packaging was a carefully orchestrated partnership that played a pivotal role in achieving a cohesive and elevated final outcome. From the start, both teams worked under a shared creative vision: to reflect purity, renewal, and sophistication not just through isolated elements, but through a seamless, holistic experience. The bottle’s narrowing silhouette provided the structural foundation—a form that conveyed elegance and fluidity. With this in mind, the label design team intentionally crafted visuals that would complement rather than compete with the form, allowing the form to remain dominant while the branding subtly enhanced its story. A key example of this synergy is the integration of circular iconography on the labels—symbols of renewal that echo the soft, clean geometry of the bottle itself. The minimalist typography and intentional use of color were developed to honor the purity of the flint or pale aqua glass, never overpowering its presence but instead amplifying the sense of clarity and balance. Frequent prototyping sessions and cross-disciplinary feedback loops ensured that both structural and graphic elements worked in harmony—from shelf impact to hand feel. This close collaboration resulted in a design that doesn’t just look premium—it feels unified, intentional, and true to Avoya’s brand values at every level.

Looking at the future of sustainable packaging design, how do you envision Avoya Glass Packaging's innovative features influencing broader industry trends and consumer expectations?

Avoya Glass Packaging was designed not only as a premium vessel for mineral water, but also as a forward-thinking model for what sustainable packaging can and should be—elegant, efficient, and environmentally responsible. Its innovative features are poised to influence both industry trends and consumer expectations in several meaningful ways. First, Avoya challenges the false dichotomy between sustainability and luxury. By combining lightweight glass engineering with a refined silhouette and premium detailing, it proves that eco-conscious design can enhance—not compromise—aesthetic and functional value. This sets a precedent for brands aiming to reduce material usage and carbon footprint without sacrificing market positioning. Second, Avoya’s minimalist label system showcase a move toward branding through form itself. This reinforces the idea that less can be more, further encouraging refined designs without complex material compositons and pushing the industry toward simplified, solutions that are both premium and planet-friendly. As sustainability becomes a baseline expectation rather than a differentiator, Avoya leads by example—not just responding to eco-conscious consumers, but shaping their standards. Its design encourages the broader market to innovate beyond compliance, toward regenerative, beautiful, and emotionally resonant packaging experiences.

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The design interview data shown in our design interview page with GCA Design Studio regarding Avoya Glasverpackung comes from the Design Interviews platform, where leading designers, architects and brands are interviewed regarding their award-winning designs, products and projects.