Radical Redesigner

Scholastic Art: What is your job?

Matt Schmitt: I am a senior industrial designer for Michael Graves Architecture & Design. An industrial designer designs everyday objects—like a toaster—but in  new ways that improve the user experience. 

SA: What is your working process?

MS: Often we start with research and brainstorming. We sketch out ideas, on paper and on the computer. Then we build models—in foam or printed with a 3-D printer—and we adjust the models based on the client’s feedback. Finally, we work with engineers to make sure the design will actually work and is safe to use.

SA: How does an object’s function inform its form?

MS: The purpose always comes first. You’ve probably heard the saying “form follows function,” and that’s really true for us. Our first task is to figure out how to improve the way the object functions, and that informs the “form,” or look, of the object. 

SA: How do you make sure that the objects you design will work safely?

MS: We work with engineers. For example, with something like a toaster, we will send a 3-D-printed model to the engineers so they can analyze it. They might say, “You need to make it wider to allow a certain amount of airflow within the toaster so that it doesn’t overheat.” Then we adjust the design for safety while keeping the design aesthetic.

SA: Do you need an engineering background for your job?

MS: I originally went to school for mechanical engineering and then switched my major to industrial design. It helps to have a background in engineering, but it’s not necessary. It’s really about imagination: What if it works this way? Why can’t it work that way? It’s unrestrained creativity that makes innovation happen.  

SA: What do you love about your job?

MS: I love that every project is different. It’s a stimulating and creative environment.