Think every designer is the same? Think again! Every designer puts a unique spin, their love language, into the spaces they create. From sustainable materials to jumping on trends, there is a unique spark that ignites every designer’s creative process. What is your design love language? Read on to find out!
The Knowledge Curator
Deeply knowledgeable, thoughtful, and precise.
Thriving on the foundation of knowledge, you combine a love for historical and cultural references with an evidence-based design approach. Using case studies, data, and insights, you create spaces that are not only meaningful but also functional and effective. You connect with clients who value thoughtful, meaningful designs that are both beautiful and grounded in purpose. You thrive in partnerships with those who appreciate a designer’s meticulous process and the intellectual depth behind every choice.
Professional Development Tip: Sometimes, your design approach may be too rigid or lack innovation. Challenge yourself to embrace new, bold ideas or explore more creative, flexible approaches.
Valuable Resource: Steelcase Research + Insights
The Sustainable Soul
Ethical and purpose-driven.
Driven by an innate sense of purpose and responsibility, you design with the future in mind. You see design as a way to care not only for the planet but also for the well-being of your clients. Every decision minimizes waste, pollution, and environmental impact. You bond deeply with clients who share a desire for ethical, thoughtful design and want their spaces to reflect their values and a commitment to sustainability.
Professional Development Tip: You may sometimes struggle with balancing aesthetics and functionality in your sustainable choices. Look for ways to make eco-friendly designs more innovative and visually striking.
Valuable Resource: Steelcase Path to Net Zero
The Textural Storyteller
Intuitive and aesthetically pleasing.
By emphasizing the power of texture and materiality, you create deeply layered and immersive spaces. Surface materials are prioritized not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their performance and emotional impact. You appeal to clients who value the sensory experience of their environment and appreciate thoughtful material choices that align with their lifestyle and needs.
Professional Development Tip: Occasionally, your focus on materials may overshadow other aspects of design. Work on balancing sensory elements with functional considerations.
Valuable Resource: Steelcase Surface Materials
The Trend Seeker
Innovated and forward-thinking.
Always on the cutting edge. You thrive on exploring new ideas and seeking inspiration from the world around you. You prioritize exploration, whether through travel, fashion, art, or emerging technologies and infuse their spaces with fresh, dynamic energy that reflects the spirit of the moment. Perfect for clients who love spaces that feel modern and cutting-edge, and who enjoy collaborating with a designer unafraid to push boundaries and embrace change.
Professional Development Tip: Try not to prioritize trends over timeless design elements. Ensure your designs have lasting meaning and purpose, not just temporary appeal.
Valuable Resource: Steelcase Community-Based Design
The Co-Creator
Team-oriented and inclusive.
Thriving on the synergy of teamwork, you view design as a shared journey that leverages the unique talents, skill sets, and knowledge of everyone involved. You seek not only to understand your client’s needs but also actively bring multiple stakeholders to the table to enhance the collaborative process and create spaces that are both functional and personal. You excel with clients who value teamwork, inclusivity, and spaces that reflect a collective effort while addressing both personal and practical needs.
Professional Development Tip: Be careful not to lose your personal design vision in the collaboration process. Try to balance collaboration with strong creative direction.
Valuable Resource: Steelcase My Projects
What kind of designer are you? Want to find out? Take our Designer Love Language Quiz to discover what makes your creative heart tick!