Why was Schwarzkopf Professional interesting for you?

Because they bring a unique perspective to the classroom. One aspect I always look forward to in any student project is the design contribution of the sponsor. The design approach of Schwarzkopf Professional is unique and powerful.

Have you ever had dealings with the hairdressing industry before?

This is the first time, but we enjoy working on new topics. Industrial designers are trained to deal with a variety of industries.

Was it difficult for you to get the feeling for the hairdressing industry?

It was easier than I thought. We worked with several hairdressers and salons and the experience was very positive for me and my students. The hairdressing industry has a lot in common with us – the passion to create something beautiful, something creative and something that is rewarding for the client and ourselves.

How did you approach the project?

I always look for an experience that is beneficial for both the students and the sponsor. From the academic point of view, the project should be more focused on exploration and research. The collaboration with Schwarzkopf Professional in this area was crucial.

Can you tell us how the typical process for a project like this is?

For us the project has three stages:The first part of the process is called research. We review the design brief with the client and then I organize the class into several groups. Each group does research on a different topic and when they have finished we share and discuss the materials amongst the groups.

The second part of the process is called ideation. Students work individually during this process and propose different directions and ideas based on the research findings. This process involves a lot of hand drawings and computer images.

The final part of the process is called execution. The students prepare 3D models and mock-ups and put their ideas to the test.

What in particular was exciting about working in the hairdressing world?

The people. Sharing and discussing ideas, looking for solutions. Sharing this common passion for creativity and applying it in different ways was very exciting.

What was your task in this project?

I organized the classroom project and coordinate with Schwarzkopf Professional the process and execution.

What do you think of when you hear “Hair meets Design”?

It’s a simple, but powerful statement. It summarizes the convergence of both worlds.

What does DESIGN mean to you?

Design for me is the language of expression. Ultimately a good design will create an emotional attachment with the customer and also the creator.

What’s your vision of future industrial design?

I see more collaboration among designers from different countries and cultures. Our world is getting smaller and smaller, with design elements influencing each other.

Which object would you love to design?

Any project that blurs the boundaries between industrial design, fashion design and graphics.

What would be a new inspiration for the Salon Business in your point of view?

It could be the advent of new technologies and the convergence of fashion with electronics.

What’s been inspiring you lately?

Besides student work, which always inspires me a lot, I get inspired by reading science and technology magazines. I am always interested in the application of new technologies.

What do you love most about what you do?

I enjoy the time I spend with students. The time we take discussing new ideas and applying them to new design is always exciting.

What was the most important thing that you have ever learned?

One important lesson was the value of diversity. Our differences make us stronger. Every culture has a unique and valid way of looking at things. It is important to integrate all points of view when we work as a group.

What makes your life worth living?

I think two things are important: to share my life with the people I love and to enjoy my work and have fun.

What’s your greatest hope for the future?

My greatest hope in general is a world with more peace and less conflict. A world with more opportunity for more people. A world with more cooperation.

learn more about the industrial design program at Cal State Long Beach...