Interview with La Jato del Gato

La Jato del Gato ("LJDG") interviewed on Friday, 4 July.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

LJDG : I studied architecture and co-founded La Jato del Gato, where I’ve spent the last 7 years designing sustainable, modular products for cats and their humans. I’ve worked with private clients, NGOs, and pet stores, always focusing on improving coexistence through thoughtful design.

How did you become a designer?

LJDG : I grew up surrounded by craft and manual work and later discovered magic at 16, which changed my perspective on creating experiences. Studying architecture was a natural step, and the need to improve my own cat’s wellbeing sparked my journey into product design.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

LJDG : My priorities are: functionality, emotional connection, and freedom of choice for the user. I combine digital tools and physical prototyping, and my style is minimal yet playful. I always make sure what I design lets the cat choose how to use it, rather than forcing a single use.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

LJDG : Curiosity, focus, and joy. I love the early creative stage when everything is still possible, but also enjoy seeing the final product being used. Designing fulfills me because it feels like solving puzzles that make others happier.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

LJDG : My manual skills, observation, and patience. I learned to see beyond what’s obvious —to notice subtle details— thanks to magic and working with animals. I think designers need empathy above all else. Another thing that shaped me is that I’ve kept my creativity very alive and developed —I approach every project as if I were playing, and that sense of playfulness gives me the freedom and ease to keep innovating.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

LJDG : I want to keep growing our brand internationally and explore how digital manufacturing can bring good design to more people. My dream is to design a full system that transforms small homes into better habitats for both humans and cats, seamlessly integrated.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

LJDG : Be patient. Observe more than you speak. Not every idea needs to be flashy —sometimes the simplest ones work best. Don’t forget the user is the one who decides if your design works, not you.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

LJDG : Always keep learning. Don’t assume your way is the only way. Watch how your users interact with your design and accept when they do something unexpected —that’s the best feedback.

What is your day to day look like?

LJDG : I start my day with coffee and a quiet moment. Then we head to the workshop to create, test, and prototype. In the evenings I practice magic or cook —both are creative outlets that inspire me. Little details —like seeing a cat enjoy something I made— make even ordinary days feel special.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

LJDG : I stay aware of trends, but I don’t follow them blindly. I’m more interested in observing human creations in general —not necessarily what’s fashionable now. Many times I find more inspiration in older designs, because they were often made to last, with care and intention. Nowadays design can feel too ephemeral, focused on what’s next rather than what endures. My work tries to find that balance —relevant but timeless.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

LJDG : When it feels intuitive, solves a real need, and the user enjoys it without thinking about why. Good design blends into life and makes it better without shouting for attention.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

LJDG : For me, a design is “ready enough” when it solves the core problem and works well for the user —but I always keep a mental note of how to improve it later. I believe design is never completely finished. We always say that we can heal through design —if it helps create harmony and wellbeing, then it’s doing its job, even if it’s not perfect yet.

What is your biggest design work?

LJDG : MoCats —our modular, multifunctional cat furniture. It embodies everything I believe in: adaptability, sustainability, and freedom of choice for the user. It took years to develop, and seeing it improve lives makes me proud.

Who is your favourite designer?

LJDG : I follow and admire Bruno Munari —his ability to combine playfulness, simplicity, and deep thought about how we interact with objects is inspiring to me. I’m also deeply influenced by Peter Zumthor, especially his way of thinking about atmospheres and how spaces make you feel. That resonates with me because I always try to focus on the sensory experience of the user, not just the object itself.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

LJDG : I live in Lima, Peru, which has taught me to be resourceful and creative with limited means. I’m surrounded by cats, magic, and food —all of which inspire me. Music helps me focus when I’m creating, and I believe good design can elevate everyday life.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

LJDG : We’re a small, close-knit team that values observation and empathy. We work collaboratively, and I always encourage people to bring their own ideas. For me, the most important trait in a designer is curiosity.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

LJDG : We often collaborate with animal welfare NGOs, designing products for adoption campaigns and donating part of our work. Beyond that, we also donate the production and post-consumer waste from our products to NGOs that recycle materials, reinforcing our commitment to a circular economy. With La Jato del Gato, we aim to create products that are sustainable, long-lasting, and part of a cycle that minimizes environmental impact. I believe design can help improve lives at all scales, and I try to support young designers by sharing what I’ve learned.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

LJDG : Winning the A’ Design Award was an amazing experience. It validated our work and gave us visibility. The three biggest benefits of participating were: learning to articulate our ideas clearly, connecting with an international design community, and gaining confidence to keep innovating. Being named Designer of the Day is a great honor and motivation to keep creating.

La Jato del Gato Profile