Interview with Kush Kaveh

Kush Kaveh ("KK") interviewed on Friday, 28 March.

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

KK : I’ve been in the design world for a while, working on everything from sleek products to full-scale design concepts. Each project taught me something new, and I love how every challenge pushes my creativity further.

How did you become a designer?

KK : I’ve been drawing and tinkering since I was a kid. In school, I realized design was the perfect way to blend art and problem-solving. Once I dived in, it just felt right. Creating new things that actually improve daily life gave my sketches real purpose.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

KK : When I design, I focus on three core principles that guide everything I create. First, it has to solve a real problem, something that genuinely helps, improves, or inspires. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, it’s just decoration. Second, I believe in keeping things simple. I try to strip away the noise and get to the essence of the idea, because clarity always speaks louder than clutter. And finally, every design needs soul. It should carry a personal touch, a sense of emotion or story. Something that connects with people on a deeper level. My process usually begins with rough sketches on paper, letting ideas flow freely before I take them into the digital space to refine and shape them further.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

KK : At the start, I’m full of ideas! There’s energy, excitement, a sense of endless possibility. Then comes the slower, focused phase where I really get into the details. It’s calm, almost therapeutic. But somewhere in between, imposter syndrome always finds a way in. I start questioning my skills, my decisions, whether I’m even good enough to be doing this. What helps is movement. I keep showing up, keep designing. I’ve learned to outwork my self-doubt. Not by silencing it, but by working alongside it. Every time I push through, finish something, and see it come to life, the noise quiets down a bit. That quiet confidence builds slowly, with every project. And honestly, the feelings never fully go away, But neither does the drive to keep creating.

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

KK : Growing up, I was always sketching, painting, or making music. It taught me to see patterns and connections everywhere. Then, exploring UX and interaction design opened my eyes to how creativity and problem-solving can truly improve people’s lives. Those combined experiences gave me a holistic view of design, where empathy, aesthetics, and functionality all play key roles.

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

KK : I see myself continuing to merge art and technology in more immersive ways, like interactive installations or digital experiences that evoke real emotion. I’d love to push the boundaries of how people engage with design, whether that’s a virtual concert platform or an app that feels like a living piece of art. One day, I hope people look back and say I made life a little more vibrant and meaningful.

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

KK : First off, be endlessly curious! Test every medium, break stuff, and learn by doing. Don’t be afraid to fail or pivot, because that’s often where the gold is. Surround yourself with people who push you to grow, and keep the user’s perspective at the heart of everything. A strong sense of empathy is what really sets a designer apart.

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

KK : Own your unique vision, but be open to change. Collaborate with people from different disciplines. Music, visual arts, coding, you name it. That mix sparks new ideas you’d never get on your own. And don’t forget to rest. Sometimes your best ideas come when you step back and let your mind wander.

What is your day to day look like?

KK : Mornings usually start with a coffee and a walk with my dog. It’s a simple ritual that helps me reset and ease into the day. Sometimes I’ll check out what’s happening in the design world, other times I’ll pick up my guitar and play a bit if the mood strikes. Then it’s into project mode. Some days I’m sketching out new ideas, other days I’m deep in a visual layout or testing an interaction. I live for those unexpected sparks of inspiration, whether it’s from a song playing in the background or something random I notice on the street.

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

KK : I browse design blogs, social media, and check out what other artists and technologists are doing. Trends can point you in fun directions, but I don’t let them dictate my entire style. If something resonates with the core idea, great. If not, I’d rather trust my own instincts and let the concept speak for itself.

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

KK : Good design just feels right! It addresses a real need or sparks an emotion. It’s accessible, intuitive, and looks great without feeling forced and trying too hard. If people can use it naturally and it resonates with them, that’s a sign we’re onto something real.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

KK : There’s a point where extra tweaks don’t add real value. I test it, gather feedback, and refine. When it meets the goals we set out, functions smoothly, and feels cohesive, I consider it done. At least for now. There’s always room for updates, but you have to let it live.

What is your biggest design work?

KK : I try to avoid glorifying a particular piece of work. I’m really proud of all my work, even the ones that I consider not so great. Specifically, failures are a big part of the process. I love it when my projects break boundaries between art forms and invite people to connect with each other.

Who is your favourite designer?

KK : I’m inspired by Dieter Rams for his timeless “less but better” approach and Ray & Charles Eames for bringing warmth and playfulness into functional pieces. If I could chat with one icon, I’d pick Leonardo da Vinci! Pure genius across so many fields.

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

KK : I split my time between a buzzing city studio and a peaceful countryside retreat. Music is always part of my creative flow, from chill acoustics to upbeat modern jazz. My culture and experiences shape how I see the world, and I try to reflect that diversity in all my designs.

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

KK : Collaboration is everything. I’m big on bringing in different viewpoints, be they fellow designers, musicians, or coders. I look for partners who value honesty, open-mindedness, and the willingness to take risks. A good designer (or artist, or musician) needs empathy, curiosity, and a sense of fun.

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

KK : I try to volunteer my skills for community projects, like designing interactive workshops for kids or creating digital art for social causes. I also try to mentor younger creatives, because I remember how crucial guidance was when I first started. Giving back keeps the creative ecosystem thriving.

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

KK : The A’ Design Award opened me up to a global network of innovators. From fellow designers to creators exploring new mediums. Three big pluses: visibility on an international stage, genuine feedback from pros, and fresh inspiration from seeing what others are making. Being recognized felt awesome, but more importantly, it reinforced my drive to keep exploring and pushing boundaries.

Kush Kaveh Profile