Chiara Ferrari is a Los Angeles based Industrial Designer. She is know for designing experience’s … whether that means a space, an object, a piece of furniture, a set or an installation.

How  did you get started?

I started making stuff in my Dad’s workshop when I was very little. Playing with wood, plaster, clay and metal mesh. I was fascinated by the work of designers such as Ron Arad, Piero Lissoni and Marc Newson. Before graduating I started working for Piero Lissoni and that set the agenda.

What has been the most challenging moment in your career?

Taking a holiday, Ah! I constantly challenge myself and throughout my career I had different challenges, from relocating to setting up my own practice. None was easy but with great rewards.

What was the most braggable moment?

Looking at people while enjoying spaces and objects I designed is easily my biggest joy.

What would you say is your biggest weakness? 

Selling my work!

And your greatest strength?

Ideas: being able to adapt my creativity to different briefs/challenges.

What was the greatest lesson you’ve learned from a mistake?

Think twice.

What do you love most about what you do?

Human dialogue. When you design, you always have to confront with the makers, whether that is a ‘metal guy’ or a manufacturing company. You learn a lot from them (and vice versa) – and the end result is often a compromise between the original idea and the production capabilities. I find this process very fascinating in all its aspects.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

To have a contract!

How do you define happiness?

Being able to appreciate life as it comes – the good and the bad.

In a more tangible way…riding bikes!

What book are you currently reading?

White, by Kenya Hara. It’s a book about the meaning of White.

What’s a personal habit that you believe contributes to your success?

Being Curious; constantly exploring the world out there – both in Design and Art – as well as exploring my own ideas through sketching and prototyping.

Taking Risks; if you don’t risk anything, you don’t move forward.

Have you collaborated with another business/artist in the past? (if yes tell us how it benefited you, if no tell us how you would like to.)

Yes, and I loved it. I worked with artists, manufacturing companies and brands. I still do, actually! I love it because it’s about WE more than ME – and being challenged to respond to very specific briefs/scenarios makes it really special.

The best projects come from collaborative minds!

Learn more about Chiara & her work here:

www.chiaraferrari.com

Instagram: @super_minimalchic