Designer Interview
23 Froen
Initially I want to be an artist. Then I wanted to be an scientist. Then to be an artist again, eventually I became a designer.
Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
Initially I want to be an artist. Then I wanted to be an scientist. Then to be an artist again, eventually I became a designer.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
Samygin & Samygin design studio was found by Alexey Samygin in 1979 in Moscow.
Alexey Samygin made himself known by his high quality work and unique vision. Basing his design on traditions and a special love of craftsmanship Alexey combines timeless beauty with individual personality and creativity. With his attention to detail, precision in proportions and great choice of materials, he creates a world of exclusivity, luxury and comfort.
Since its foundation the company has always been oriented to high-quality and bespoke projects, specializing in interior and custom furniture design both for private and public spaces. Now the design studio is run by father and son team and creates effective solutions for traditional and contemporary interiors.
What is "design" for you?
It means so much to me.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
The more difficult task I have, the more interesting it could be.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I think all natural materials are good.
When do you feel the most creative?
After two-three hours of work I feel the most creative.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
When I am creating something, I feel happy.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
It is nice to see how your design comes to life. It is a very anxious feeling.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
I think a design has to be logical, comfortable to use, practical, without unnecessary details, beautiful.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
Designer has to create a quality design, what society need.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
Design follows new technologies. And it is a mirror of society, I think.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
The inspiration could be from everywhere. Our world is a source of inspiration, I think something inspires us when we are open-minded. I find my inspiration in the architecture, views, sea and my wife)
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
I think my design is rather architectural. I like a right angle. I try to achieve maximum comfort in a simple form.
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
I live in Moscow. It affects in any event, but I don't feel it. We live in the internet era, we have an access to any information.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
An every design starts from a think. I try to imagine it in my mind, do a lot of sketches...it is a similar design-process.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
A chair which I made when I studied. It is the Mackintosh chair with a high back. It is a desk by Marsel Brayer.
The two vintage Wien chairs which I restored, and Macbook.
What is your "golden rule" in design?
You design for a human, not for a competition.
What skills are most important for a designer?
A skill to express yourself.
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
I need only paper and pencil that's all. The software is a good, but isn't a necessary thing for me.
How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
If you don't set the time-frames, you can design a long while. Sometimes these frames helps us.
What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
Why did you become a designer?
What was your most important job experience?
Don't be afraid of mistakes.
How can people contact you?
I have a site and people can contact me.
