Diana Moreira, Portugal
Why did you choose to become a designer?
Since I was a child, I felt curious about the objects around me. Inspired by my father, I remember watching him build undefined things that always ended up having a clear function.
Product design attracted me because of its ability to merge aesthetics, functionality, and empathy. I love the idea that, in the end, everything converges into solutions that transform lives, influence behaviour, and even emotions. That human and sensitive response is what drives me as a designer.
Where do you find inspiration? (for designing the contest chair)
Nature is a huge source of inspiration for me, especially its fluid and organic shapes. For Aura, I wanted to reflect that natural harmony. I envisioned a chair with a strong presence, visually inviting and delicate to the touch—something that sparks curiosity. Just like in nature, where form and function coexist perfectly, I translated that logic into design, creating a chair that welcomes the user with ease and flow.
What is your creative process?
I have a deep interest in nature and biomimicry—organic forms, smart structural solutions, and how everything in nature blends function and aesthetics harmoniously.
My creative process begins with observation and contextual research. I’m a strong believer in user-centred design. I like to understand the environment, identify needs or desires, and let ideas emerge intuitively, always validating them later.
Whenever possible, I seek feedback from the target audience, as it brings valuable perspectives.
I believe design should have meaning and intention. So, every project is also an exercise in empathy—putting myself in someone else’s shoes and imagining how each piece will be experienced.
What was the impact of winning the ESAD contest?
Winning the contest was a huge encouragement and a validation of my effort.
With Aura, I had the opportunity to follow every phase of the project—from concept to production—and even attend fairs like Salone del Mobile Milano, where I received valuable feedback.
It was a true milestone in my journey as a designer and deepened my passion for furniture design.
When designing a chair, what do you think is the most important feature?
In my view, ergonomics and how the chair fits the environment are key. In Aura’s case, the focus was on balancing comfort and style—I wanted the chair to engage users both physically and emotionally.
It’s also essential for the aesthetics to match the space where it will be placed. Anticipating demanding usage scenarios is equally important to ensure stability, durability, and extend the product’s life cycle.
Why do you think it’s important for students to visit manufacturing facilities?
Because it brings us closer to the reality of production. Seeing the materials, machines, processes, and people involved changes our design perspective and makes us realise that not everything is possible—compromises are often necessary.
Understanding technical limitations and knowing when to adapt the project is essential. This proximity helps form more conscious designers and leads to better-developed projects.
What do you think is the future of design—or the next big thing?
I believe design will take on growing responsibility—both environmental and social.
Technology will be a strong ally, especially tools like artificial intelligence, which can optimise processes.
What matters most is knowing where and when to use it, without losing the intuition and critical thinking that define a true designer.
Tell us about a project that has been your biggest achievement (so far).
Without a doubt, Aura has been my greatest achievement—especially with the surprise of a second version being launched, and both being well received at design fairs like Salone del Mobile Milano and HD Expo + Conference.
It was my first major project and market launch—a real personal and professional milestone.
Being part of the production, receiving professional feedback, and presenting the chair at globally recognised fairs was a transformative experience. I faced real challenges, made compromises, and learned a lot—about design and about myself.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I would love to work in the furniture field, though I don’t know exactly how far I’ll “fly”. What I do know is that I want to keep growing—as a person and as a professional—with ambition and dedication.
That drive to evolve is what fuels me every day—it will always be my engine.
Regardless of the path, I want to keep designing with purpose, growing, and leaving a positive mark on people’s everyday lives.
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