Interview with Kush Kaveh

I’ve been drawing and tinkering since I was a kid. In school, I realized design was the perfect way to blend art and problem-solving. Once I dived in, it just felt right. Creating new things that actually improve daily life gave my sketches real purpose.

When I design, I focus on three core principles that guide everything I create. First, it has to solve a real problem, something that genuinely helps, improves, or inspires. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, it’s just decoration. Second, I believe in keeping things simple. I try to strip away the noise and get to the essence of the idea, because clarity always speaks louder than clutter. And finally, every design needs soul. It should carry a personal touch, a sense of emotion or story. Something that connects with people on a deeper level. My process usually begins with rough sketches on paper, letting ideas flow freely before I take them into the digital space to refine and shape them further.

At the start, I’m full of ideas! There’s energy, excitement, a sense of endless possibility. Then comes the slower, focused phase where I really get into the details. It’s calm, almost therapeutic. But somewhere in between, imposter syndrome always finds a way in. I start questioning my skills, my decisions, whether I’m even good enough to be doing this.

What helps is movement. I keep showing up, keep designing. I’ve learned to outwork my self-doubt. Not by silencing it, but by working alongside it. Every time I push through, finish something, and see it come to life, the noise quiets down a bit. That quiet confidence builds slowly, with every project. And honestly, the feelings never fully go away, But neither does the drive to keep creating.

Growing up, I was always sketching, painting, or making music. It taught me to see patterns and connections everywhere. Then, exploring UX and interaction design opened my eyes to how creativity and problem-solving can truly improve people’s lives. Those combined experiences gave me a holistic view of design, where empathy, aesthetics, and functionality all play key roles.

I see myself continuing to merge art and technology in more immersive ways, like interactive installations or digital experiences that evoke real emotion. I’d love to push the boundaries of how people engage with design, whether that’s a virtual concert platform or an app that feels like a living piece of art. One day, I hope people look back and say I made life a little more vibrant and meaningful.

First off, be endlessly curious! Test every medium, break stuff, and learn by doing. Don’t be afraid to fail or pivot, because that’s often where the gold is. Surround yourself with people who push you to grow, and keep the user’s perspective at the heart of everything. A strong sense of empathy is what really sets a designer apart.

Own your unique vision, but be open to change. Collaborate with people from different disciplines. Music, visual arts, coding, you name it. That mix sparks new ideas you’d never get on your own. And don’t forget to rest. Sometimes your best ideas come when you step back and let your mind wander.

Mornings usually start with a coffee and a walk with my dog. It’s a simple ritual that helps me reset and ease into the day. Sometimes I’ll check out what’s happening in the design world, other times I’ll pick up my guitar and play a bit if the mood strikes. Then it’s into project mode. Some days I’m sketching out new ideas, other days I’m deep in a visual layout or testing an interaction. I live for those unexpected sparks of inspiration, whether it’s from a song playing in the background or something random I notice on the street.

I browse design blogs, social media, and check out what other artists and technologists are doing. Trends can point you in fun directions, but I don’t let them dictate my entire style. If something resonates with the core idea, great. If not, I’d rather trust my own instincts and let the concept speak for itself.

Good design just feels right! It addresses a real need or sparks an emotion. It’s accessible, intuitive, and looks great without feeling forced and trying too hard. If people can use it naturally and it resonates with them, that’s a sign we’re onto something real.

There’s a point where extra tweaks don’t add real value. I test it, gather feedback, and refine. When it meets the goals we set out, functions smoothly, and feels cohesive, I consider it done. At least for now. There’s always room for updates, but you have to let it live.

I try to avoid glorifying a particular piece of work. I’m really proud of all my work, even the ones that I consider not so great. Specifically, failures are a big part of the process. I love it when my projects break boundaries between art forms and invite people to connect with each other.

I’m inspired by Dieter Rams for his timeless “less but better” approach and Ray & Charles Eames for bringing warmth and playfulness into functional pieces. If I could chat with one icon, I’d pick Leonardo da Vinci! Pure genius across so many fields.

I split my time between a buzzing city studio and a peaceful countryside retreat. Music is always part of my creative flow, from chill acoustics to upbeat modern jazz. My culture and experiences shape how I see the world, and I try to reflect that diversity in all my designs.

Collaboration is everything. I’m big on bringing in different viewpoints, be they fellow designers, musicians, or coders. I look for partners who value honesty, open-mindedness, and the willingness to take risks. A good designer (or artist, or musician) needs empathy, curiosity, and a sense of fun.

I try to volunteer my skills for community projects, like designing interactive workshops for kids or creating digital art for social causes. I also try to mentor younger creatives, because I remember how crucial guidance was when I first started. Giving back keeps the creative ecosystem thriving.

The A’ Design Award opened me up to a global network of innovators. From fellow designers to creators exploring new mediums. Three big pluses: visibility on an international stage, genuine feedback from pros, and fresh inspiration from seeing what others are making. Being recognized felt awesome, but more importantly, it reinforced my drive to keep exploring and pushing boundaries.

I design to make things feel more human. Every interface, every flow, every brand touchpoint is an opportunity to connect. I became a designer because I believe design is one of the few tools that can reshape how people live, think, feel, and even hope.

It chose me as much as I chose it. I followed curiosity. Even before I knew what "UX" meant, I was obsessed with how people interacted. With spaces, with tools, and with each other. Over time, design became my language for problem-solving.

I design experiences: from digital products and SaaS platforms to brand systems and AI-integrated tools. I’d love to design more systems that bridge accessibility and intelligence. Products that make tech truly inclusive.

Thank you, but I’m far from what I’d call a legend. Just someone who keeps learning and building. From what I’ve seen, the best place to start is by listening more than you speak. Understand people. Study behavior, psychology, and culture. Make things, break them, learn, and rebuild. And above all, stay curious and stay true to yourself.

A good designer delivers what’s expected. A great designer redefines the problem, surprises you, and makes the solution feel inevitable. Greatness comes from empathy, iteration, and bravery.

It solves the right problem in a way that feels effortless and emotionally resonant. A really good design makes people feel seen. If users can use it intuitively and remember it emotionally! that’s gold.

Good design builds trust. It reduces friction, elevates perception, and solves complex problems beautifully. It's not decoration, it's strategy. When done right, design becomes a competitive edge.

I’d design intelligent, self-sustaining systems for underserved communities. whether it's AI-powered tools for mental health or hydroponic modules for urban farming. Design should extend dignity.

A fully immersive learning platform that uses AI, spatial interaction, and adaptive design to help people find their ideal careers and skills. Personalized education meets behavioral UX meets generative design.

Curiosity. I don’t design from ego! I design to learn. Every project teaches me something. That mindset keeps the work fresh, user-centered, and scalable.

I’ve always admired Dieter Rams for his philosophy, Paula Scher for her boldness, and John Maeda for integrating tech and art. I’m also deeply inspired by newer voices blending design with ethics and futurism.

The NYC subway map by Massimo Vignelli. It’s iconic, functional, and timeless. I also love the microinteractions in Headspace’s app, they’re subtle, emotional, and deeply considered.

One of my favorite projects is actually something I’m working on right now. I won’t name it just yet, but it’s solving a real problem and already making a difference. It reminded me that good design isn’t about features. It’s about making life feel a little easier.

Design every day. But more than that, reflect. Ask for feedback. Study outside design, something that I am currently fascinated by is biomimicry, also psychology, philosophy, even biology. I grew by constantly reinventing my approach and never settling for surface-level thinking.

Probably a musician, creative director in film or an architect of future habitats, maybe even a writer or space entrepreneur. All my interests orbit around storytelling, systems, and shaping how people live.

Design is intentional problem-solving that considers both function and feeling. It’s the bridge between chaos and clarity, tech and people, now and the future.

Honestly, a combination of mentors, my partner, and an inner fire that refused to settle for mediocrity. I’ve had people who believed in me when I was still learning to believe in myself.

Showing up daily. Not just to design, but to observe, to question, to collaborate. The relentless pursuit of "better, not perfect" was key.

Imposter syndrome. Burnout. Saying yes to everything. But the biggest obstacle was learning to trust my vision and communicate it confidently.

As a narrative. Not just “what” and “how,” but “why.” Let your process show. Make the thinking visible. Because your mind is part of the value!

I'm building several products at the intersection of AI, self-improvement, and sustainability. Expect tools that help people learn, grow, and live better, smarter ecosystems for everyday life.

To design systems that empower, not just impress. I want my work to live beyond screens, to shape better futures, touch people's lives, and to inspire the next wave of creators.

Authenticity. Vision. The ability to make sense of complexity and bring calm through design. I also think people expect leadership through innovation, and I take that seriously.

Design is invisible architecture. It shapes how people access opportunities, health, education, and even joy. Good design removes barriers. Great design uplifts lives.

I’m building an AI-powered productivity tool and a health tech platform, both deeply rooted in human-centered design. They blend UX, automation, and systems thinking in ways I’ve never done before.

Honestly, each project has something I love! Whether it's the problem it solved, the team I worked with, or the creative risk we took. But the ones that bring the most satisfaction are always the ones that truly help people. When something I’ve designed makes someone’s day smoother or less stressful. That’s the kind of impact that sticks.

More inclusivity, less gatekeeping. More ethical tech. Less obsession with dribbble aesthetics and more focus on systems that work for real people.

Design is merging with AI, strategy, and systems thinking. The future is adaptive, co-created, and personalized in real time. UX won’t be just digital, it’ll be behavioral.

It depends on the scope, but I usually iterate quickly. I prototype fast, test fast, and refine until it feels right. Days for small projects, sometimes weeks, or months for complex systems.

Always with a lot of questions. What problem are we solving? Who is this for? What do they feel, need, and fear? Research comes before pixels.

Design less, observe more. Then create with clarity and care.

It’s a dance. Design influences culture, but culture also fuels design. Great designers spot the moment before the trend and shape it with intention.

The technology is always the canvas, the brush, and sometimes the paint. But never the idea. Technology should serve the human, not the other way around.

Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, Notion, ChatGPT, Midjourney, n8n, and sometimes code. I am always trying to keep myself up to date with the latest tools and I use what helps me think and build faster, but I don’t obsess over tools.

They’re silent narrators. Color evokes feeling. Materials shape perception. Ambient is mood. Together, they tell a story beyond words.

“What does this make people feel?” or “What did you learn building this?” I’d love more curiosity about the process, not just the surface.

I wonder who designed it, what was their thought process, what tradeoffs they made, and how intentional each choice was.

Someone curious, grounded, and eager to learn. Yes, I fully believe in co-design. Collaboration always brings unexpected magic.

My first creative mentor, a few close collaborators, and honestly users. Their unfiltered reactions taught me more than any book.

Don Norman’s The Design of Everyday Things. Also The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda, and lately, books on systems thinking and behavioral psychology.

I designed every day. I deconstructed what I admired, accepted critique, and stayed in love with the problem. Not just the solution.

Leonardo da Vinci. I think we’d vibe on the intersection of art, science, and curiosity.

I’m grateful for the recognition, but I don’t really see myself as famous. I just try to do good work and stay curious. Awards are nice, but the real reward is seeing something you’ve made actually help someone. That’s what matters most to me.

Color: seafoam green—calm with depth.
Place: anywhere I can catch a quiet sunset by the sea.
Food: anything cooked with heart—specially persian food.
Season: autumn, when everything softens and sharpens at the same time.
Thing: My bass guitar—it holds more versions of me than I can count.
Brand: the ones that feel real and don’t try too hard—like Notion, Patagonia, or anything built with purpose.

One time, I showed up to a client meeting with two versions of a concept, one polished, one super experimental. I accidentally opened the experimental one first and went forward with it… but instead of backtracking, I explained the thinking behind it. Turns out, they loved that version way more. It reminded me that being honest and open in the process can lead to better outcomes than playing it safe.

Progress. Even 1% better. I love creating new things, Seeing something go from idea to interface, especially if it helps someone, is the best dopamine.

Maybe not “designer,” but I was always building, sketching, fixing things. The urge to make sense of chaos was definitely there.

We’ll live in ecosystems powered by intelligence and empathy. I think design will be invisible—but essential. And hopefully, we’ll still care about beauty.

I’m not designing for applause, I’m designing for change. Whether you’ve followed my work for years or just discovered it: thank you. I hope my design makes you feel something real.

I founded Neoclio, a branding, media, and design agency. We specialize in creating compelling visual identities and innovative solutions that resonate with audiences. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of both aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that our designs not only look good but also serve a purpose.

Design, for me, is the art of problem-solving. It’s about understanding the needs of the user and crafting solutions that are both beautiful and functional. It’s a way to communicate ideas and emotions through visual and tactile elements.

I love a challenge and thrive on solving complex problems. The bigger the problem, the happier I am to tackle it. I enjoy trying new things and pushing the boundaries of what's possible, whether it's in branding, packaging, UX design, painting or digital design.

One of my favorite designs is the Quiksip drink packaging. It combines minimalism with bold, monochromatic visuals that emphasize natural flavors. It’s a design that’s both striking and functional, making it easy for consumers to connect with the product.

The first thing I designed for a company was a logo for a small local business. It was a simple yet impactful design that helped them establish their brand identity and stand out in their market.

I love exploring new materials and technologies. While the digital world offers unlimited opportunities, there's something special about the feel of material, texture, and the physical touch. Both realms have their unique place in my heart.

I feel the most creative late at night when the world is quiet. There’s something about the stillness that allows me to focus and let my imagination run wild without distractions.

I focus heavily on the user experience and the overall aesthetic. It’s important to me that the design is not only visually appealing but also intuitive and functional. I love thinking outside the box, but you have to know the rules to break them. Every element should have a purpose and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the design.

When I design, I feel a mix of excitement and curiosity. There’s always a sense of adventure in exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. It’s a deeply satisfying and fulfilling process.

Seeing my designs come to life brings immense joy and pride. It’s incredibly rewarding to see something that started as an idea in my mind take physical form and have a real impact on people.

A successful design speaks to both the heart and the mind. It's a blend of function and beauty that makes people's lives better, even in small ways. It should feel intuitive and look timeless. But most importantly, a great design can help change the world and touch people's lives in ways that were never imaginable.

In design, it's hard to fake authenticity. Some focus too much on aesthetics and forget about functionality; both are equally important. A good design balances beauty and usability, ensuring it looks great and works well.

Designers have a responsibility to create sustainable and ethical designs. Our work can drive positive social change and promote environmental awareness, making a real impact on society and culture.

The design field is rapidly evolving with technology, AI and all the new stuff that is happening. However, I believe people will always value the raw, human touch. The future of design lies in authentic, human-centered creations.

My first art and design exhibition is going to be in Istanbul next year, but I am actively exploring the new possibilities.

I think Inspiration is overrated, sometimes just getting to work is enough to get the ideas flowing! But I think my overall inspiration comes from music, art, and everyday life, seeing people and interactions and paying attention to what's happening. I stay curious, observe the world around me, and constantly seek new learning experiences to fuel my creativity.

I try to avoid becoming tied to a specific style or trend; I believe versatility is essential for any designer or entrepreneur. My preference leans toward clean, minimalistic, and functional styles. I am eager to experiment with our entire visual conceptual perspective. One element that consistently appears in my designs is the use of vibrant colors, which I’ve noticed when reflecting on my work!

I currently live in Turkey. The rich culture, history, and vibrant mix of traditions here greatly influence my designs. While they provide a unlimited source of inspiration, navigating different cultural expectations can be challenging. But I'm up for a challenge!

Effective communication and understanding are key. I ensure I fully grasp the company's vision and goals and maintain open dialogue throughout the design process to create designs that resonate with their brand and audience.

When I hire, I look for attitude, personality, and the ability to learn. Talent is important, but so is character. Companies should seek designers who are adaptable, eager to learn, and great communicators.

My design process starts with thorough research and understanding the problem. Then, I brainstorm and explore different ideas. I refine these concepts through constant iteration, turning them into tangible designs that meet the final vision.

I love my vinyl record player, a blend of vintage and modern design. My ergonomic chair is both stylish and functional. My collection of art books is a constant source of inspiration. The minimalist lamp on my desk provides perfect lighting, and my hand-crafted ceramics add a personal touch to my space.

My day starts with a morning walk with my dog to clear my mind. I spend my mornings working on design projects, then take a break for lunch. Afternoons are for meetings and brainstorming sessions with my team. Evenings are reserved for personal projects or learning new skills. I end my day with some music or taking a few minutes to meditate and appreciate a moment of silence.

Stay curious and never stop learning. Embrace failure as part of the process. Build a strong portfolio and seek feedback. Surround yourself with inspiring people and always keep an open mind. Hard work and consistency will always trump effortless talent.

The positives include the ability to express creativity, solve problems, and make an impact. However, it can be challenging to balance client expectations with personal vision, and the field is highly competitive. So keep evolving and exploring.

Form follows function. A design should excel in performance before it shines in appearance.

Critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability are crucial. Strong communication skills and proficiency with design tools are also important. But most importantly, embrace growth. Change is always challenging, but it's worth the effort.

I use Adobe Creative Suite for most of my digital work. I love sketching ideas on paper first. My toolbox includes a laptop, design books, and a curated list of online resources and inspiration boards. I do acrylic on canvas painting and woodworking from time to time to keep my creativity going.

I prioritize tasks and set clear deadlines. I break projects into manageable chunks and use time-tracking tools to stay on schedule. Taking regular breaks helps maintain my productivity and creativity.

It varies depending on the complexity of the project. It can take anywhere from a few days to several months, from initial concept to final execution.

Most people ask about my creative process and where I find inspiration. It's always a joy to share my journey and what drives my creativity.

I value all my experiences, each offering unique benefits. Every project has enriched my skills and broadened my perspective in its own way, from UX design to branding and packaging.

My clients range from startups to established brands across various industries. Each project brings its own unique challenges and learning opportunities.

I thrive on projects that require innovative solutions and out-of-the-box thinking. I love creating designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

I plan to continue exploring the intersection of technology and design, pushing the boundaries of what's possible. I'm also looking forward to expanding Neoclio and collaborating with other creatives.

I value collaboration and often work with a talented team. However, I also enjoy solo projects where I can fully immerse myself in the creative process.

Yes, I’m currently working on a software project that integrates AI with design tools to enhance the creative process while maximizing business efficiency. It's an exciting blend of my interests in technology, entrepreneurship and design.

People can reach me through my agency, Neoclio, via email or social media. I’m always open to new opportunities and collaborations.

I’d like to emphasize the importance of continuous learning and staying curious. The world of design is ever-evolving, and it’s crucial to keep pushing the boundaries and exploring new ideas.