Interview with Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr

Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr ("MMS") interviewed on Saturday, 30 November.

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

MMS : I studied electronics at university, which provided a strong technical foundation for my career. After completing my education, I began working as a manager of a lighting shop. This role marked the beginning of my journey into the lighting universe. I started by purchasing lights from renowned German companies and was deeply inspired by their work. This inspiration led me to study more about leading lighting companies such as Erco, Fabbian, Vibia, iGuzzini, Occhio, and Bruck. I even bought lighting from Bruck to further understand their design and functionality. Additionally, my father owns a factory that produces industrial items, and this environment significantly contributed to my understanding of manufacturing and design processes. All these experiences have come together to help me create innovative lighting solutions. Over the years, I have designed many lighting pieces and have had the privilege of selling them to numerous architects and interior designers in Iran and other countries. My passion for lighting design is driven by a desire to blend technology with aesthetics, creating pieces that are not only functional but also enhance the spaces they illuminate.

How did you become a designer?

MMS : every aspect of the process. Starting from my background in electronics, I discovered a passion for crafting innovative solutions that blend technology with aesthetic appeal. Managing a lighting shop allowed me to explore this passion further, where I realized the profound impact lighting has on spaces and people's experiences. What truly inspired me to pursue design was the autonomy it offered, being able to shape not just the products themselves but also their pricing and market presence. This ability to create something unique and indispensable fuels my commitment to delivering exceptional lighting solutions. Every project is an opportunity to innovate and leave a lasting impression, ensuring that my designs not only illuminate spaces but also resonate with clients and users on a deeper level.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

MMS : When designing Modulo Luminaire, my priorities revolve around functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, all of which contributed to winning the Bronze A' Design Award. My technique involves a rigorous research and analysis phase, ensuring that I understand the project's requirements and constraints deeply. I embrace an iterative design process, where prototypes are developed and refined based on feedback. For Modulo Luminaire, this approach meant creating a modular lighting solution that not only meets practical needs but also enhances user experience through its sleek and adaptable design. By integrating eco-friendly materials and practices, I aim to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability. The result is a product that is innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, which ultimately led to the recognition and the award.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

MMS : Designing Modulo Luminaire, especially seeing it evolve into an award-winning product, has been an emotional journey filled with excitement, curiosity, and pride. From the beginning, there was a deep sense of curiosity and enthusiasm, driven by the desire to push the boundaries of lighting design. As the project developed, each innovative step forward was met with a surge of excitement and anticipation. Challenges and obstacles along the way brought moments of frustration, but overcoming them led to a profound sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Seeing Modulo Luminaire recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award was a moment of immense pride and joy. It validated the hard work, creativity, and dedication poured into the project. Overall, designing Modulo Luminaire has been a rewarding experience, marked by a blend of creativity, determination, and the thrill of achieving excellence.

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

MMS : Several aspects of my background have profoundly shaped my journey as a lighting designer. My education in electronic engineering provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the technical aspects of lighting and electrical systems. This background has been instrumental in enabling me to design innovative lighting solutions that are both functional and efficient. Professional experiences have also played a crucial role. Working on diverse projects with cross-functional teams, including engineers, architects, and interior designers, has exposed me to various perspectives and challenges. These collaborations have honed my ability to integrate different viewpoints into cohesive and innovative lighting designs. Moreover, my passion for sustainability drives my design approach. I'm committed to creating eco-friendly lighting solutions that minimize environmental impact while maintaining high standards of performance and aesthetics. This focus on sustainability has been a guiding principle throughout my career. These combined experiences and values have shaped my identity as a lighting designer, enabling me to create designs that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and innovative. This comprehensive approach was key in the development and success of Modulo Luminaire.

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

MMS : My growth path as a lighting designer has been shaped by continuous learning, collaboration, and a commitment to innovation. Looking ahead, I aim to further enhance my technical skills and explore new technologies in lighting design. Staying updated with industry trends and advancements will allow me to develop more cutting-edge and sustainable solutions. Future Plans: I plan to expand my portfolio by working on diverse projects that challenge and inspire me. Collaborating with other designers, engineers, and architects will remain a key focus to foster creativity and innovation. Additionally, I intend to pursue further education and certifications in sustainable design practices to ensure my work continues to contribute positively to the environment. Dream Design Project: My dream design project would be to create lighting solutions for renowned companies such as ERCO, Vibia, OCCHIO, and HOBO. Working with these industry leaders would provide an incredible opportunity to push the boundaries of lighting design, combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional aesthetics and functionality. This aspiration reflects my dedication to achieving excellence and my passion for creating impactful and innovative lighting solutions. These goals reflect my commitment to pushing the boundaries of lighting design and my dedication to creating innovative and sustainable solutions for the future.

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

MMS : For designers starting their careers, staying curious and continuously learning is crucial. The design field is constantly evolving, so keeping updated with the latest trends, tools, and technologies is essential. Embrace constructive criticism and feedback, viewing them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Building a strong portfolio that showcases a variety of projects, highlighting your skills, creativity, and versatility, will represent your professional identity effectively. Networking and collaboration are also vital, as they can open up opportunities and provide valuable insights, fostering innovation. Focusing on the end-user is key to creating successful designs. A good design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and user-friendly. Understanding the needs and preferences of your target audience is paramount. Above all, stay passionate and persistent. The design journey can be challenging, but dedication to your craft and a willingness to push boundaries and experiment with new ideas will carry you through. Remember, every designer's path is unique, and continuous growth and learning are part of the journey. Enjoy the process and keep creating!

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

MMS : Thank you for the kind words! Here are a few suggestions for fellow designers, artists, and architects based on my experience as a lighting designer: Leverage Your Technical Background: Utilize your technical skills, like those from an electronic engineering background, to innovate and bring a unique perspective to your designs. This technical expertise can help you create more functional and efficient solutions. Embrace Collaboration: Working with professionals from various disciplines can bring new insights and ideas. Collaborating with engineers, architects, and interior designers has been invaluable in enriching my projects and creating cohesive, innovative designs. Stay Curious and Open-Minded: Always be willing to explore new ideas and technologies. Continuous learning and curiosity can drive innovation and lead to groundbreaking solutions in your work. Focus on Sustainability: Aim to create eco-friendly designs that minimize environmental impact. Incorporating sustainable practices and materials has been a guiding principle in my career, contributing to both the success and positive impact of my projects. Adaptability and Versatility: Design with flexibility in mind. Creating modular and adaptable solutions, like Modulo Luminaire, allows for customization and scalability, ensuring that your designs can evolve with changing needs and trends. User-Centric Approach: Keep the end-users in mind throughout the design process. Your designs should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional and accessible, enhancing the overall user experience. By incorporating these principles, you can create designs that are not only beautiful and functional but also impactful and meaningful. Keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and happy designing!

What is your day to day look like?

MMS : As a lighting designer at HOBO Lighting, my day-to-day routine is a blend of creativity, technical work, and collaboration with my talented team members, Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atieh (Hana) Koochakmanesh. Morning: Research and Inspiration: I start my day by reviewing design trends, new technologies, and lighting solutions from industry leaders like ERCO, Vibia, OCCHIO, and HOBO. This keeps me updated and inspired. Project Planning: I outline my tasks for the day, focusing on current projects and setting goals to ensure progress. Midday: Design Development: I spend a significant portion of my day working on design concepts, creating sketches, and developing prototypes. This involves both hand-drawing and using design software to visualize ideas. Technical Review: I review the technical aspects of the designs, ensuring they meet functional requirements and adhere to safety and sustainability standards. Afternoon: Collaboration: Meetings with team members, including Seyedsajad and Atieh, as well as engineers, architects, and clients, to discuss project updates, gather feedback, and make necessary adjustments. These discussions are crucial for aligning everyone’s vision and solving any design challenges. Material and Component Selection: I work on selecting materials and components that fit the design and sustainability criteria, often liaising with suppliers and manufacturers. Evening: Refinement and Testing: I refine the designs based on feedback and conduct testing to ensure functionality and performance. This iterative process is key to achieving high-quality results. Documentation and Reporting: I document the day's progress, update project timelines, and prepare reports for stakeholders. Throughout the day, I find moments to reflect on the creative process, ensuring that each design element aligns with the overall vision and purpose. It's a dynamic and fulfilling routine that balances creativity, technical precision, and collaboration with my amazing team.

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

MMS : Staying updated with the latest design trends is crucial in lighting design. I keep myself informed by regularly reading industry publications, participating in conferences, and engaging with online platforms like Instagram and Behance. Design trends matter because they help ensure that my work remains relevant and appealing to the market, blending contemporary innovation with timeless design principles. By balancing trends with core values of functionality, sustainability, and user-centricity, I create lighting solutions that are both current and enduring.

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

MMS : A well-designed product or project seamlessly integrates functionality, aesthetics, and user experience. It effectively addresses the needs of the user, making their interactions intuitive and enjoyable. Good design is both innovative and timeless, striking a balance between contemporary trends and enduring principles. It also considers sustainability, using materials and processes that minimize environmental impact. Ultimately, a good design not only solves a problem but also enhances the overall experience, leaving a positive and lasting impression.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

MMS : I often feel that my designs are never truly "ready" because I'm constantly striving to improve them. I believe there's always room for enhancement and refinement. However, to manage this, I set clear criteria and milestones to evaluate the design's progress and ensure it meets the key objectives and functional requirements. By focusing on the most critical aspects first, I can achieve a balance between perfection and practicality. This approach allows me to move forward while still maintaining high standards of quality and innovation.

What is your biggest design work?

MMS : Every design project carries its own significance and impact. Each one is a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and effort. Whether it's a large-scale installation or a meticulously crafted product, the dedication and passion you pour into your work make every design a milestone in its own right. Celebrating each design as a "big" achievement is a testament to your commitment to excellence and your continuous pursuit of pushing boundaries in the field of lighting design.

Who is your favourite designer?

MMS : Jean Nouvel, Axel Meise, Achille Castiglioni,

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

MMS : As a designer at HOBO Lighting, my lifestyle and culture are deeply intertwined with creativity and innovation. Working with a talented team, including Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atieh (Hana) Koochakmanesh, we constantly explore new ideas and technologies in lighting design. Our daily routine often involves brainstorming sessions, design development, and collaborative meetings to ensure our projects align with both aesthetic and functional goals. The vibrant culture at HOBO Lighting fosters continuous learning and inspiration, allowing us to push the boundaries of what's possible in lighting solutions. We prioritize sustainability and user-centric design, ensuring our work not only illuminates spaces but also enhances the overall experience for users.

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

MMS : At HOBO Lighting, our work culture is centered around creativity, collaboration, and innovation. We believe in fostering an environment where ideas can flourish and where every team member, including Seyedsajad Jalalsadat and Atieh (Hana) Koochakmanesh, feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Our team dynamic encourages open communication, continuous learning, and mutual respect, which are essential for pushing the boundaries of lighting design. Our business philosophy is built on the pillars of sustainability, user-centric design, and excellence. We are committed to creating lighting solutions that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. By prioritizing the needs and experiences of our users, we ensure that our designs enhance their everyday lives. We strive for excellence in every project, continuously seeking to innovate and improve. At HOBO Lighting, we believe that great design can transform spaces and positively impact the world.

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

MMS : As a designer at HOBO Lighting, I prioritize sustainability and social impact in all of my projects. I actively seek opportunities to engage with the community and support initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and education in design. By incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions, I aim to reduce the environmental footprint of my work. Additionally, I participate in mentorship programs, sharing my knowledge and experience with aspiring designers and architects, and encouraging them to pursue sustainable and user-centric design practices. These contributions reflect my commitment to using design as a tool for positive change in society.

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

MMS : Attending the A' Design Award was an incredibly enriching experience. It provided a unique platform to showcase my work to a global audience and receive recognition for my dedication and creativity in lighting design. Networking with other talented designers and industry professionals was a highlight, as it allowed me to exchange ideas, learn from their experiences, and gain new perspectives. The event also offered valuable insights into the latest design trends and innovations, inspiring me to continue pushing the boundaries of my own work. Overall, the A' Design Award not only celebrated my achievements but also motivated me to strive for excellence and contribute positively to the field of design.

Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr Profile