Meet our People — Sonia Pedrazzini

INTERVIEWER: CLAIRE DELMAR

In this edition of "Meet Our People," we sit down with the wonderful Sonia Pedrazzini, an eclectic and versatile designer. Sonia grew up on the island of Capri and graduated in product design from the ISIA in Rome. Join us as we delve into Sonia’s journey, philosophy, and the exciting projects on her horizon.

Tell me briefly about your background and experience in the design/related field

I graduated in product design at ISIA in Rome. I'm an eclectic and versatile designer, I grew up on the island of Capri and I'm ever influenced by the shapes and colors of the Mediterranean.

I create products for industry, cosmetics and high perfumery and, at the same time, I had developed more experimental and research work, going from artistic and unique pieces to limited editions. I love to explore the possibilities of high craftsmanship and self-production, I designed also jewellery and in 1998 created the Le Morandine, a collection of objects inspired by the works of Giorgio Morandi.

Alongside my work as a designer, I also teach at academies and universities in Italy.

Between 2001 and 2010, along with the philosopher and art critic Marco Senaldi, I conceived and directed the first packaging culture magazine: Impackt, Contenitori e Contenuti (publisher Edizioni Dativo). My design approach is both conceptual and poetic.

I draw my inspiration from the world of contemporary folklore, from art and nature; my works, featuring a strong color content and formal elegance, have been publicised and exhibited in exhibitions in Italy and abroad.

What inspired you to pursue your career path?

I have always felt I had to fulfill myself on a creative path and I have always had the need to seek beauty. Giving shape to beauty and giving beauty to shapes, is the perfect combination that art and design offer me.

What's your design philosophy and approach?

My approach to the project always starts from a deep understanding of the client's request. To go then further, from recover a story telling and give it a soul, to the point of proposing a transversal and innovative vision, projected towards the future but without betraying the values and history of the client.

What's your process for creating a design concept?

To speak for a long time with the client in order to grasp his deep desires, and bring out, as in a maieutic process, even the most unconscious ones. Then activate a continuous dialogue with him mixed with various design steps: the briefing, the first proposals, the choice, the developments, the modifications. Until we arrive at the final product that represents the realization of our common intentions.

What's your stance on sustainable or eco-friendly design practices?

For me, it is very important. Nowadays we can no longer ignore practices linked to sustainability in all senses and in all forms. And sustainability begins with a thought. A thought that must be positive, and does not damage or exploit the environment and people. And everything else follows.

What are some recent projects you've been working on?

I have created highly crafted projects using materials such as ceramic, glass, and silicone, and I have created a series of artistic garden chess. We are now renovating a historic private home for which I will design a whole series of furnishings and accessories

How do you handle unexpected design challenges during a project?

I'm very flexible and love challenges, so I generally don't worry if something unexpected happens. But I don't like working quickly and under pressure, because you don't make the right choices and you make mistakes easily. And then it wouldn't be a pleasure anymore and for me working with love and passion is really important.

What software or tools do you use for design and visualisation?

I create sketches by hand or on the computer, mood boards, when necessary small rough models, and then applications such as Autocad, Illustrator, Photoshop and others. It always depends on the project and on the budget.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their career?

I think starting a designer career is different from country to country. For those starting in Italy, I recommend having a lot of passion, determination and patience. Unfortunately, it is not easy to undertake this career without the right support, both economic and relationship-based.

Are there any specific projects you are most proud of and why?

I am particularly proud of the Le Morandine project. I made the one myself where, at first, it was rejected by a company. I learned a lot from this experience. But now I look further.

As Sonia’s design journey continues, the interplay of passion, patience, and a commitment to beauty propels her forward. From the picturesque landscapes of Capri to the conceptual realms of design, every project is a canvas for innovation and storytelling, embodying the essence of her eclectic and versatile design philosophy.