Interview with Sanda Strugar

I am motivated by the diversity and dynamic nature of design. Becoming a designer was the only way I could truly express my essence and nature. The ability to create unique, meaningful pieces that reflect both my vision and the individuality of my clients drives me every day. Design allows me to bring beauty into the world and to share a part of myself through my creations.

If others had their way, I would have pursued a career in architecture, for which I studied. However, my soul chose design.

I design jewelry, and I am fortunate to already be creating the pieces I dream of. However, I am always excited about designing things I haven't yet imagined are possible. My goal is to continuously challenge and surpass myself, exploring new realms of creativity and innovation.

Young designers should listen to themselves, not the surroundings. If they find their true calling, they need to be persistent and dedicated. By staying true to their vision and continuously working hard, they will eventually receive all the accompanying benefits, including the title of a design legend.

A good designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing designs, meeting the client’s needs and expectations. However, a great designer goes beyond that—they innovate and push the boundaries of creativity. A great designer listens deeply to their clients but also brings their own unique vision and expertise to the table, creating designs that are not only beautiful and functional but also evoke emotion and tell a story. They continuously seek inspiration, embrace feedback, and are always evolving their craft.

A really good design combines functionality, aesthetics, and innovation. It solves a problem, is visually appealing, intuitive to use, and emotionally engaging. I evaluate good design by considering its functionality, aesthetics, innovation, user experience, and emotional impact.

Good design enhances functionality, aesthetics, and user experience. Investing in good design improves efficiency, visual appeal, brand image, longevity, emotional connection, and encourages innovation. This leads to greater satisfaction and success.

If I had the time, I would love to design jewelry for the Met Gala event. It would be an incredible opportunity to showcase unique and extravagant pieces on such a prestigious platform. My dream clients would include Ciara, Johnny Depp, Tom Hardy, Kate Middleton, and many others. Designing for these distinguished personalities would be an honor and an exciting challenge, allowing me to create truly exceptional and memorable jewelry.

A dream project I haven’t yet had time to realize is a collaboration with Anna Wintour, the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue. Working with her to create a special jewelry collection would be a tremendous honor and an exciting challenge.

My secret ingredient for success in design is magic—the spark of creativity and passion that turns ideas into extraordinary designs. It comes from a deep love for the craft and a belief in the potential of every project

only legend for me is Elsa Peretti

One of my favorite designs is Elsa Peretti’s Bone Cuff. I admire it because she took inspiration from human bones, blending natural forms with artistic design. It inspires me to explore unconventional sources for design ideas.

My favorite design is the Inaequo ring. It’s made of 14k yellow gold and features a 150ct smoky topaz with 42 smoky diamonds. The flawless craftsmanship and luxurious materials make it a standout piece in my collection.

To be a better designer, focus on personal growth and creativity. Spend time in nature for inspiration and listen to quality music to stimulate creativity. These practices have been essential for my own development as a designer.

I would be singer and architect

For me, design is about making the world a more beautiful place. It’s a way to transform ideas into tangible forms that enhance our surroundings and improve our lives. Design adds value and meaning to objects, spaces, and experiences, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Without design, the world would lack the aesthetic and functional elements that make life more enjoyable and inspiring.

My biggest supporters have been my family and friends. Their constant encouragement and belief in me have been crucial in helping me reach these heights as a designer.

What helped me become a great designer is the influence of my father. His passion for music and art, along with his support and encouragement, inspired me to follow my own creative path.

Before becoming a design master, I faced various obstacles, including skepticism from others and challenges in establishing myself in the industry. I overcame these challenges through perseverance and a strong determination to make a difference in the world of design. My passion for creating meaningful and beautiful pieces drove me to keep pushing forward despite setbacks. Each challenge taught me valuable lessons and helped me grow, ultimately leading me to where I am today.

Designers should present their work with authenticity and originality. It’s important to showcase their unique vision and stay true to their own style.

I can’t reveal too much about my next project at the moment, but I promise it will be exciting and innovative. Stay tuned and follow our journey for updates—I won’t disappoint you!

My ultimate goal as a designer is to change the course of the design world and be remembered for my unique contributions. I want to create a lasting legacy and inspire future generations.

People expect me to keep advancing and pushing the boundaries of design. As an esteemed designer, it’s important for me to innovate, set trends, and deliver exceptional work.

Design helps create a better society by enriching our environment with beauty and functionality. It transforms everyday objects and spaces into art, enhancing our quality of life and creating a more aesthetically pleasing and inspiring world.

Right now, I’m incredibly excited about a new project where I’m collaborating with Swiss partner who is expert in rare gemstones. We’re working on a collection that features some of the most exquisite and rare stones, and I’m thrilled about the unique opportunities this project presents. Stay tuned for more updates—this is a project we are very proud of, and I can’t wait to share the results with everyone!

The project that gave me the most satisfaction was my collaboration with A’ Design Award. It was my first world prestigous award, which made it a significant milestone in my career and a rewarding recognition of my work.

I would like to see more emphasis on handcrafted design and less reliance on 3D technology. Traditional craftsmanship offers unique value and authenticity that digital tools alone cannot achieve.

I see the design field moving towards more digital and automated solutions, but I hope we don’t lose the unique spark and soul that traditional craftsmanship brings to design.

The duration to finalize a design project depends on the complexity of the idea, production methods, and materials used. It can range from a few weeks to several months based on these factors.”

I start a new design project by understanding the client’s needs and finding inspiration from various sources like nature and art.

My life motto is: ‘Fashion is fleeting, but jewelry is eternal.’ I create pieces that are timeless and enduring, beyond just trends.

I think design sets the trends, especially when it is original and has soul. Unique designs can create new trends in the industry.

Technology can play a role in the design process depending on the client’s needs and the specifics of the project. However, I always prioritize traditional craftsmanship and manual techniques in my work. While technology offers useful tools and possibilities, I believe that the true essence of design lies in the personal touch and artistry that only handmade creations can achieve.

I don’t use any design software or high-tech equipment for my work. Instead, I rely on simple tools like paper and pencil for sketching my designs. My main resources are constant communication and collaboration with skilled artisans who have decades of experience. This hands-on approach allows me to develop my ideas and ensure that my designs are brought to life with the highest quality craftsmanship.

In design, color, materials, and ambient play crucial roles in creating an aesthetic and meaningful experience. For me, gold and colors that are pleasing to the eye are central to my designs. I use a wide spectrum of colors provided by gemstones from Mother Nature to enhance the beauty of each piece. The choice of materials and the overall ambiance of the design help evoke emotions and convey a sense of elegance and timelessness.

I wish people would ask about the symbolism and stories behind each unique piece of my design. I enjoy sharing the deeper meaning and inspiration behind my creations.

When I see a new great design or product, I feel a deep sense of admiration and inspiration. I appreciate the creativity and skill involved in creating it.

I’m still figuring out the concept of co-design, so I don’t have a specific ideal partner in mind. I’m open to collaboration if it aligns with my vision and offers a creative exchange of ideas.

My family and the brilliant individuals I’ve met throughout my career have had the most influence on my design. Their support, inspiration, and insights have been invaluable to me.

The book ‘The Life and Work of Antoni Gaudí’ had a profound effect on my design. It offers insights into Gaudí’s innovative approach and has inspired my own creative process.

I developed my skills from a young age by drawing and being inspired by beautiful design pieces around me. This passion motivated me to refine my craft through practice, learning, and exploration.

elsa Peretti

I am very grateful for the awards and recognition I have received so far, but I see them as just the beginning of my journey. While it’s wonderful to be acknowledged for my work, I remain focused on the future and excited about the opportunities and successes that lie ahead. I believe that fame and recognition come with their own challenges, but I am committed to staying grounded and continuing to grow as a designer. The real reward for me is the chance to keep creating and pushing the boundaries of my craft.

My favorite color is turquoise, food is pasta, place is Montenegro, season is spring, thing is jewelry, and brand is Sanda Design.

One memorable and funny experience I had as a designer was when I was commissioned to create an extremely luxurious piece of gold jewelry for a husband to give to his wife for their 30th wedding anniversary. I spent a lot of time and effort crafting a beautiful and elegant piece, only to discover that the wife was allergic to gold! It was an unexpected twist, but it became a humorous reminder of the importance of thoroughly understanding a client’s needs and preferences. In the end, we were able to adapt the design to use a different material, and the couple was very happy with the final result. This experience taught me a valuable lesson about attention to detail and communication in the design process, and it remains one of my favorite stories to share.

A great day for me as a designer involves being around positive people, enjoying good energy, and experiencing nice weather. I motivate myself by focusing on the joy of creating and the satisfaction of seeing my designs come to life.And beautiful reactions of my clients.

When I was a little child, it wasn’t immediately apparent that I would become a great designer. I was a very joyful and energetic kid, with a love for artistic activities and creativity, but there weren’t any clear indications at that time that I would end up pursuing a career in design. My early years were filled with playful artistic explorations, and it was only as I grew older that I started to realize my deep passion for design. My journey to becoming a designer was a gradual process, where my childhood interests evolved into a dedicated pursuit of creating beautiful and meaningful work.

When I think about the future, especially a thousand years from now, it’s a fascinating and somewhat abstract concept. While it’s challenging to predict exactly what will happen, I believe that the pieces of jewelry created by Sanda Design, made from precious and timeless materials, will still hold their value and beauty. I like to imagine that these pieces will be cherished heirlooms passed down through generations, keeping a part of my creative spirit alive.

I want my fans to know that each piece from Sanda Design is created with passion and care. My designs are inspired by nature and art, and I see jewelry as a way to express emotions and celebrate moments. I’m always learning and growing as a designer, aiming to bring joy and beauty into people’s lives.

Sanda Design was founded in October 2019, and since then, we have achieved various successes, including showcasing our collections at Milan Fashion Week for the 2021/22 seasons. We are proud to have satisfied clients from all around the world with our unique and innovative designs.

For me, design is a form of expression and a way for designers to respond to various themes and ideas. For example, the 'Bottom' ring is a statement piece addressing the issue of ocean pollution and the health of marine environments.

I enjoy designing pieces that combine artistic expression with meaningful themes. My favorite works are those that tell a story or raise awareness about important issues. I find most of my inspiration in nature, which influences my designs and creative process.

It’s very difficult for me to choose just one favorite design because each piece of jewelry is unique and made with exceptional care and love. I take great pride in every creation at Sanda Design, and each piece tells a fantastic story. For example, the 'Bottom' ring is very special to me; every detail is meticulously designed to represent marine life and convey a message of environmental conservation, urging us to help protect our oceans.

The first thing I designed for the company was the 'THE GODDESS' collection. This collection was initially created in a 2D format, featuring geometric forms and designs.

My favorite materials are definitely precious metals like platinum, gold, and silver. As for techniques, I particularly love handcrafting because it is the only process in the world of 3D printing that still carries a personal touch and soul.

My creativity comes from everything around me, but I feel most inspired and creative when I am in nature. Nature is one of the most beautiful creations and provides endless inspiration for my designs.

When designing, I focus primarily on translating the concepts in my mind into a tangible reality through careful attention to detail and balance. I work hard to ensure that every element is thoughtfully crafted to bring my vision to life.

Every time I design, I experience the same emotion: the excitement of creation and the joy of bringing a new “baby” into the world. It’s a fulfilling process that helps me beautify and add meaning to the world around us.

When my designs are realized, I feel a deep sense of pride and joy, but also a touch of sadness because it’s like seeing my new “baby” leave to find a home with its owner. It’s a bittersweet moment, celebrating the creation while saying goodbye.

A design is successful when it embodies diversity, originality, and a timeless style. It should also reflect bravery and, most importantly, have a soul. These elements together create a design that resonates and endures.

When judging a design as good or bad, I first consider its originality and the clarity of the concept. I look at how well the design communicates its intended message and whether it successfully combines form and function. Additionally, I evaluate the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into creating the piece.

From my perspective, designers are responsible for creating with both society and the environment in mind. This means choosing sustainable materials, adopting ethical practices, and designing solutions that are both meaningful and beneficial. We also have the opportunity to use our work to raise awareness and drive positive change.

The design field is constantly evolving, thanks to advancements in technology that push the boundaries of creativity and feasibility. While technology has opened up new possibilities for designers, I believe that the future of design will be shaped by work born from genuine passion and love. Designs that come from a deep connection to the craft and a sincere desire to make a difference will stand out and be recognized as truly valuable.

The last exhibition I held was a private one in Zurich, Switzerland. For my upcoming exhibitions, I aspire to reach global cities like New York, Tokyo, Dubai, and Paris, where I can share my designs with a broader audience.

My design inspiration comes from many sources, but nature is my greatest muse. I am particularly inspired by the beauty of the sea and the calming effects of the natural world. Whenever I feel overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life and find my creativity waning, I take time to return to my family home by the sea. The combination of the ocean’s serenity and the soothing influence of music helps me reconnect with my design passion and reignites my creativity.

I would describe my design style as rich, detailed, and deeply inspired by the beauty of nature. My designs are characterized by intricate craftsmanship, bold forms, and a luxurious elegance that reflects the complexity and splendor of the natural world.

What drew me to this style is my lifelong fascination with nature and a desire to express its beauty through my creations. I am captivated by the intricate patterns and textures found in nature—such as the delicate textures of seashells, the graceful curves of leaves, and the serene beauty of ocean waves. This inspiration guides me to explore a design style that embraces opulence and detail rather than minimalism.

My approach to design involves creating pieces that are not only visually striking but also deeply personal. I work closely with clients to incorporate their unique stories and preferences into the designs, resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces that can be cherished and passed down through generations. This collaborative process ensures that each piece is not only a work of art but also a meaningful treasure for its owner.

I live between Montenegro and Serbia, and I definitely feel that the cultural heritage of these countries influences my designs. The strength and courage demonstrated by our ancestors inspire me to create unique and bold pieces. I channel this heritage into my work, allowing me to face challenges and criticisms with resilience and determination.

One of the advantages of living in Montenegro and Serbia is the sense of privacy and security that allows me to focus on my creative process. However, being from a smaller region does come with challenges, such as limited access to the global market and fewer opportunities for international exposure. Despite these challenges, the rich cultural heritage of this region provides a deep well of inspiration and drives my creative vision.

When working with companies, my approach is centered around collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect. I start by understanding the company’s vision and goals, and then I work to align my design expertise with their needs and objectives.my approach is to create a partnership where both parties work together to achieve a successful outcome. I am committed to delivering exceptional designs and fostering positive, productive collaborations.

My main suggestions are to clearly define your project goals, review the designer’s past work, assess their communication skills, check their relevant experience, discuss the budget and timeline, look for genuine enthusiasm, and set clear terms for collaboration.

My design process starts when a client decides to create a custom piece of jewelry. We begin by selecting a gemstone from our collection and discussing the preferred material, such as platinum, gold, or silver. I then create initial design sketches based on these choices. I present these sketches to the client, offering a preview of the design and gathering their feedback. Once we agree on the final design, I prepare it for production, overseeing the process to ensure the highest quality.

Artistic Sculpture – This sculpture adds a touch of elegance to my living space with its intricate details and unique design. It serves as a daily source of inspiration for my creativity.

Vintage Jewelry Box – I cherish this vintage jewelry box that has been in my family for generations. Its timeless design and craftsmanship remind me of the rich history of jewelry making and inspire my own work.

Dad’s Music Studio and Components – My father’s music studio is a special place for me. It is filled with vintage musical instruments and components, and the creative atmosphere and design of the studio greatly inspire my design process.

Designer Eyewear Collection – I have a collection of designer eyewear that I absolutely love. Each pair has a unique design and high craftsmanship, adding a stylish touch to my outfits and reflecting my appreciation for fashion.

Designer Handbags – I enjoy a collection of designer handbags that showcase exceptional fashion and craftsmanship. Each piece adds a touch of elegance to my daily life and highlights the beauty of design.

My day begins with getting ready for the day ahead and preparing a healthy breakfast. After that, I check in with the artisans to review which pieces of jewelry are ready for the day’s schedule. I then dive into responding to emails and client messages, and I enter new orders into the system to initiate their production.

After handling administrative tasks, I take an hour for a nature-based workout, which helps me clear my mind and rejuvenates my creativity. Post-workout, I head to the workshop to oversee the creation of jewelry pieces, providing instructions and checking every detail of the production process to ensure high quality.

I usually have lunch at the workshop, where I use the time to catch up with the team and discuss ongoing projects. In the afternoon, I might have meetings or client consultations to discuss new designs or updates on current orders. By evening, I prepare everything needed for the next day and make plans to stay on track with upcoming tasks.

Passion is essential in design. Follow your dreams with dedication and resilience. The road to success is rarely smooth, but with persistent effort and enthusiasm, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

From my perspective, here are some positives and negatives of being a designer:

Positives:

Creative Freedom – One of the greatest aspects of being a designer is the freedom to explore your creativity and bring your unique ideas to life. This creative expression is incredibly fulfilling.

Constant Learning – “The design field is always evolving, which provides continuous learning opportunities. Staying updated with new trends and technologies keeps the work fresh and exciting.”

Personal Fulfillment – “There is a profound sense of accomplishment in seeing your designs come to life and being appreciated by others. This personal fulfillment is a major reward of the profession.”

Negatives:

High Pressure and Deadlines – The design profession often comes with tight deadlines and high-pressure situations. Balancing creativity with meeting client expectations can be challenging.

Criticism and Rejection – Designers frequently face criticism and rejection, which can be tough to handle. However, it’s an important part of growth and improvement in the field.

Work-Life Balance – “Maintaining a work-life balance can be difficult, especially during busy periods. Finding time for personal life while managing professional demands is an ongoing challenge.”

My ‘golden rule’ in design is to always infuse your work with passion and authenticity. This principle guides me in creating designs that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful

For a designer, key skills include creativity, technical proficiency, and attention to detail. Creativity helps generate fresh ideas, while technical skills are essential for executing those ideas effectively. Paying attention to detail ensures that the final product is polished and high-quality. Additionally, strong communication and problem-solving skills are important for working with clients and overcoming design challenges.

My design process is driven by my creativity and imagination. I don’t use specific design software or hardware tools for creating designs. Instead, I rely on my mental vision and conceptual skills to develop ideas. I also draw inspiration from various sources such as nature, art, and fashion to guide my creative process.

Managing time in design involves a balance between creativity and structure. I start by setting clear goals for each project and breaking them down into manageable tasks. I create a flexible schedule that allows for adjustments as needed and make sure to prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance. Regularly reviewing my progress and making adjustments helps me stay organized and efficient.

Designing an object from beginning to end can take varying amounts of time depending on several factors. The timeframe depends on the time of year, the specific requirements of the client, how effectively we communicate, and the materials chosen for the design. Each project has its own unique challenges and needs, so there isn’t a fixed duration for the entire design process.

One of the most frequently asked questions I get is how I continue to find inspiration to create unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.

My most important job experience was the launch of my first collection, ‘The Goddess’. This collection marked a major milestone in my career as it was the first time I showcased my unique design vision to a wider audience. It helped me establish my brand and gave me the confidence to continue pursuing my passion for creating distinctive jewelry pieces. The success of this collection was a pivotal moment that shaped my professional journey and opened doors to future opportunities.

Novak Djokovic: World-renowned tennis player.
Luna de Casanova: Fashion influencer.
Alessandra Ambrosio: Supermodel and actress.
Jasmina Supeljak: Actress and public figure.
Jelena Trivan: Public figure and journalist.
and many more..

The type of design work I enjoy most is creating detailed and intricate jewelry pieces. This aspect of design excites me because it allows me to explore complex themes and express my creativity through fine craftsmanship. I draw most of my inspiration from nature, finding beauty in natural forms and patterns that I can incorporate into my designs. Jewelry design offers a unique combination of artistic expression and technical challenge, making it incredibly fulfilling for me.

Looking ahead, my biggest goal is to elevate Sanda Design to an international level.

I develop my designs by myself

Yes, I’m currently developing a new collection inspired by marine life. This project focuses on ocean conservation and aims to raise awareness through intricate and meaningful designs.

People can contact me through several channels: via my website, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Here are the details:

Website: www.sandastrugar.com
Instagram: @sanda_design
LinkedIn: Sanda Design**
I’m always happy to connect and discuss new opportunities or collaborations!

I’d like to express my gratitude for the global recognition my designs have received, including my first international award. It’s important to balance creative vision with collaboration and feedback. I’m also excited about exploring more sustainable practices in design.