Interviews with Linda Martins

My design studio is based in São Paulo, where I also have a showroom to showcase my creations. Additionally, I own my own factory, which allows me to oversee the entire production process, ensuring quality and attention to detail in every piece. This setup gives me the freedom to experiment and bring my ideas to life, blending innovation with craftsmanship.

For me, design is a way of looking at life. It’s how I materialize my experiences, emotions, and inspirations into something tangible. Design goes beyond aesthetics or function; it’s about storytelling and creating meaningful connections between people and the objects or spaces around them. Every piece I create is a reflection of my journey and the way I see the world.

I enjoy designing pieces that combine elegance, comfort, and storytelling. Furniture is particularly special to me, as it allows me to create objects that become part of people's everyday lives. I also love exploring sustainable design and experimenting with innovative materials to create timeless, impactful works. Whether it’s a chair, a table, or an entire space, I aim to blend functionality with a strong emotional connection.

My favorite design is always the next one. I believe that as a designer, I’m constantly evolving, and each new project represents an opportunity to explore fresh ideas and push boundaries. Every piece I create carries a part of me, but I’m always excited about what’s coming next—the challenge of turning new inspirations into meaningful designs.

The first thing I designed for a company was a large, comfortable armchair for a Brazilian brand. It was an exciting project that challenged me to balance aesthetics with functionality. That piece marked the beginning of my journey as a designer and reinforced my passion for creating furniture that brings comfort and elegance to people's lives.

I have a deep appreciation for Brazilian woods and their incredible possibilities. They offer a unique combination of durability, versatility, and natural beauty. I love exploring their textures, grains, and tones to create pieces that are both timeless and full of character. Working with sustainable practices is also a priority for me, making these materials even more meaningful in my designs.

I feel most creative when I’m traveling. Being in new environments, exploring different cultures, and observing unique architecture and landscapes inspire me deeply. Traveling allows me to expand my perspective and find unexpected connections that often translate into my designs. It’s a time when my mind feels open, and ideas flow naturally.

I focus on every aspect of a design because true design must combine beauty, emotion, and functionality. If one of these elements is missing, it’s not really design—it’s just an object. My goal is to create pieces that are not only visually striking but also evoke feelings and serve a clear purpose in people’s lives.

When I design, I experience a blend of emotions that fuel my creativity and passion for the process. Initially, there is excitement as I explore new ideas and concepts, visualizing the potential of my work. This is often accompanied by a sense of curiosity, urging me to experiment and push boundaries.

I often experience a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Seeing a concept transform into a tangible product or space brings a strong feeling of accomplishment. There’s also a sense of pride in knowing that my ideas have come to life and can positively impact others.

A successful design is characterized by its ability to resonate emotionally with its audience, often described as having "soul." When we infuse a design with passion, intention, and authenticity, it transcends mere functionality and aesthetics, creating a deeper connection with users.
Successful designs also effectively address the needs and desires of the target audience, balancing practicality and creativity. They are thoughtful in their execution, considering context, usability, and sustainability.

I first consider its functionality—whether it effectively meets its intended purpose. I also evaluate the aesthetic appeal, ensuring it is visually engaging and aligns with the brand identity. Finally, I assess user experience, examining how intuitive and accessible the design is for its target audience.

Designers have a responsibility to prioritize sustainability, create inclusive and accessible designs, address social issues, consider ethical implications, and advocate for responsible practices. By doing so, they contribute to a better society and environment.

The design field is evolving rapidly, largely driven by advances in technology, shifting consumer values, and the need for sustainability. We are seeing a greater emphasis on user-centered design, where understanding the user's experience and needs is paramount.

The future of design will likely include more integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics, allowing for more personalized and efficient solutions. Additionally, there is a growing focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, where designers work alongside technologists, environmental scientists, and sociologists to create holistic solutions.

in 2025 in SP, For Design Week. The next one will be at Fuorisalone in Milan.

My design inspiration comes from a variety of sources, including nature, culture, and everyday experiences. I feed my creativity by exploring art, architecture, and travel, as well as engaging with diverse forms of media such as books, films, and music. Additionally, collaboration and conversations with others in creative fields often spark new ideas and perspectives, enriching my design process.

My design style is feminine and vibrant, reflecting my Brazilian heritage. I explore this style through a blend of colors and organic shapes that celebrate nature and culture. The main characteristics include an emphasis on elegance, warmth, and a sense of playfulness. My approach to design involves creating thoughtful, user-centered solutions that evoke emotion and connection, ensuring that each piece resonates with its audience while embodying my unique aesthetic.

The inspiration to merge traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design came from my desire to create a timeless piece that honors the artistry of woodworking while appealing to modern sensibilities. I believe that furniture should tell a story, connecting the past to the present, and the Sushi Chair does just that. The use of traditional techniques, such as handcrafting each piece and using wood joinery, reflects the dedication and skill of classical woodworking. At the same time, the contemporary lines and geometric composition bring a fresh and modern aesthetic to the design. This fusion mirrors my vision of modern furniture as an intersection of history, innovation, and adaptability—creating pieces that feel both familiar and forward-thinking.

Balancing artisanal quality with scalability was a key consideration in designing the Sushi Chair. The traditional carpentry techniques used in its creation, such as precise wood joinery and hand-finishing, were deliberately chosen to preserve the authenticity and uniqueness of each piece. However, the design was also developed with modularity and efficiency in mind to allow for broader production if needed.To achieve this balance, I focused on creating a straightforward yet iconic structure with minimal waste in material use, making it easier to replicate without losing the artisanal essence. By standardizing certain elements, such as the dimensions of the cylindrical backrest and seat components, and employing noble wood that’s both durable and versatile, the chair’s design can be scaled while still upholding the quality and character that define its handcrafted origin. This approach ensures that Sushi remains a symbol of craftsmanship even in larger production runs.

The creative process behind the Sushi Chair revolved around the idea of crafting a piece that is both visually playful and highly functional. I started by exploring geometric forms that could evoke a sense of lightness and movement while providing structural stability. The cylindrical backrest and rounded seat were intentional choices to create a harmonious rhythm, breaking away from rigid design norms and inviting curiosity.Functionality was equally important. Each geometric element was carefully positioned to ensure ergonomic comfort and proper weight distribution. The slight inclination of the backrest, for example, not only adds to the chair’s visual appeal but also enhances lumbar support. Materials also played a key role—working with noble wood allowed me to emphasize the purity of the geometric forms while ensuring durability.Ultimately, achieving this balance required iterative prototyping, testing proportions, and refining the design to ensure that every playful detail serves a functional purpose, resulting in a chair that is as engaging as it is practical.

Developing the ergonomic aspects of the Sushi Chair while preserving its minimalist aesthetic was a careful and deliberate process. I began by studying the natural posture and seating habits of users to ensure the chair provides both comfort and support. The cylindrical backrest, for instance, is designed to cradle the spine gently, offering ergonomic alignment without compromising the chair's sleek silhouette.The seat features subtle contours that provide a comfortable base while maintaining a clean, geometric form. The minimalist aesthetic was achieved by eliminating any unnecessary elements, focusing on simplicity and function. By refining proportions and angles during the prototyping phase, I was able to enhance comfort while keeping the overall design light and unobtrusive. This harmony of form and function encapsulates the essence of the Sushi Chair: a piece that celebrates both the art of simplicity and the science of comfort.

The Sushi Chair was conceived during a time of profound global changes in 2020, which undeniably shaped its design journey. As people spent more time at home, the demand for furniture that blends comfort, versatility, and aesthetics became increasingly evident. This shift inspired me to design a piece that could adapt seamlessly to various environments—whether a cozy home setting or a sophisticated commercial space.The constraints of the time also reinforced the value of timeless craftsmanship and sustainable design. I chose noble wood for its durability and natural beauty, creating a chair that emphasizes quality over excess. The minimalist aesthetic, with its clean lines and geometric simplicity, reflects a desire for calm and order in an uncertain world.Ultimately, the Sushi Chair embodies resilience and adaptability—concepts that were deeply relevant in 2020. It’s a product of its time, yet designed to transcend trends, offering comfort and elegance that endure.

The Sushi Chair was designed with modern women in mind—women who appreciate sophistication, individuality, and versatility in their spaces. Its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic speak to a sense of refinement, while the playful geometric forms add character and approachability, mirroring the multifaceted roles and identities of contemporary women.The chair’s adaptability is a core reflection of this mission. It transitions effortlessly from a casual home setting to a chic, professional environment, aligning with the dynamic lifestyles of modern women. Additionally, its handcrafted details honor tradition and authenticity, values that resonate deeply with individuals who seek meaningful connections to their surroundings. By balancing elegance with a touch of whimsy, the Sushi Chair embodies a design philosophy that celebrates strength and creativity—qualities I associate with the women who inspire my work. It’s more than just a chair; it’s a statement piece that resonates with modern sensibilities while maintaining timeless appeal.

he material selection for the Sushi Chair was guided by a desire to balance timeless elegance with tactile richness. Noble wood was chosen for its durability, natural beauty, and ability to age gracefully. Its warm tones and fine grain lend the chair a sense of authenticity and sophistication, while also ensuring structural integrity. To complement the wood, textured fabrics were introduced to add depth and contrast. The tactile quality of the fabric invites touch and enhances the chair’s comfort, creating a welcoming and approachable feel. Together, these materials create a harmonious blend of the organic and the refined, highlighting the chair’s duality—sophisticated yet playful, traditional yet modern.This thoughtful combination of materials not only defines the Sushi Chair’s character but also ensures it fits seamlessly into a variety of environments, making it a versatile and enduring piece.

The success and recognition of the Sushi Chair reinforce my belief in the power of balancing craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Moving forward, I envision evolving this design language by continuing to explore the interplay between simplicity, geometry, and artisanal techniques, while introducing new materials and forms that push creative boundaries. Future designs will build upon the principles established by the Sushi Chair—prioritizing timelessness, adaptability, and a strong narrative. I aim to incorporate sustainable practices even further, utilizing innovative materials and processes to honor both tradition and the environment. At the same time, I’ll seek to create pieces that connect emotionally with users, blending function with a sense of delight and discovery. Ultimately, my goal is to expand this design language into a cohesive collection of furniture that celebrates craftsmanship, respects modern lifestyles, and continues to challenge conventions in contemporary design.

The Sushi Chair was designed to reinterpret traditional seating archetypes by introducing a playful yet functional form that aligns with the evolving demands of modern living spaces. In today’s world, furniture needs to go beyond basic utility to become an extension of personal expression and a reflection of lifestyle. The Sushi Chair achieves this by merging iconic design with adaptability and comfort, encouraging users to see furniture as both art and function. Its clean geometry and handcrafted quality serve as a reminder of the importance of timeless design amidst fast-paced trends. At the same time, its approachable aesthetic invites users to integrate it seamlessly into diverse environments, from homes to offices, fostering a sense of versatility in modern interiors. By challenging conventions and reimagining what seating can be, the Sushi Chair contributes to a broader dialogue about the relationship between furniture and identity in contemporary spaces, encouraging a deeper appreciation for thoughtful, user-centered design.