My name is Michal and I've been creating consumer products for over 20 years.

What actually is industrial design?

As an industrial designer, I view design as a tool for solving practical, functional, mechanical, production, service-related, and end-of-life disposal problems. Design is not just about the appearance of a product but also about how it is constructed, manufactured, used, serviced, and ultimately disposed of. An experienced designer takes responsibility for each of these stages, engaging in the full product lifecycle, thus becoming its first seller, assembler and user.

What do you design?

As outlined above, I have had the pleasure of designing products from a wide range of industries - from consumer electronics, children's products, home appliances, furniture, to specialized medical products and flying machines. My openness to new challenges is a defining trait, so I never shy away from them. The key to a successful project is the combination of knowledge, experience, and empathy, allowing the designer to step into the roles of everyone involved in the creation and use of the product. This responsibility for the resulting product often extends to designing marketing and communication materials as well.

How is a product created?

At its simplest, the key stage is creating a solid design brief, and it's great when the designer is involved in its creation. The brief sets the framework within which we move through the next stages, starting with the creation of the product concept. The concept defines the vision and potential directions for the project, focusing mainly on visual and user aspects. The next step is refining the concept with the help of prototypes to ultimately choose the one to continue working on. Once the concept is refined, we add another aspect of the project, which are mechanical or technological solutions. It's worth noting that good design isn't always just what's visible at first glance, as often the real magic happens within the product's interior. After this stage, we verify all designed solutions using prototypes and make any necessary adjustments. It's crucial for the project to be optimized for assembly and production. Finally, we receive complete CAD and 2D documentation, based on which all components of the designed product or the necessary tools for their production are manufactured.

Do you deal with mechanical/electrical engineering?

Thanks to my experience and competencies, I actively participate in all stages of the product creation process - from developing the brief, through initial sketches, CAD modeling, mechanics, engineering, prototyping, to optimizing the assembly and production process. As I have often emphasized, I deeply believe that a comprehensive understanding of each of these stages is key to effective product innovation. Regarding electronics, I don't personally handle it, but I have knowledge of the processes involved in its creation, its limitations, and possibilities. For projects that include electronic elements, proper integration is key. Therefore, close collaboration with the team responsible for designing the electronics, as well as other areas requiring specialized knowledge, is natural and necessary for me.

You have a great idea but no clue where to start?

No problem! I have often helped startups grow from an idea sketched on a napkin to a manufacturer of bestselling products. Being involved in a project from the very beginning is the coolest adventure in a designer's life. My experience also includes knowledge about where, how and with whom.

Do you work only with startups?

I work with anyone who seeks my knowledge and experience. I'm happy to collaborate with those launching their first product on the market, helping them shape the language and product vision of their future brand. With equal enthusiasm, I engage in projects for established companies looking to expand or refresh their current product range. I am naturally open to all interesting projects and proposals.

How much does a project cost?

As you can see, projects can be very diverse, and the scope of my involvement in them varies, so pricing is always determined individually. However, to establish a base amount for each project, I use the official rate card of the Association of Industrial Designers, which is available here. 

Do you accept equity payment?

The short answer is: no. However, I sometimes reduce costs or postpone some part of my fee to later, mainly for projects that are closely aligned with my values (sustainable development, animal and human welfare, climate change, social justice). If you have a project in these areas, a flexible schedule, and a limited budget - we should talk.

How can we start collaborating?

Send me an email with a brief description of your project (contact details can be found here). I will try to reply as soon as possible, and if I can help you, we will arrange a phone call or meeting to get to know each other and discuss your project in more detail. Then, I will prepare a quote and a detailed work schedule for you, and we can start.

What is the difference between working with a freelancer and a design agency?

My experience encompasses not only a significant number of completed projects but also a substantial variety of roles I have undertaken throughout my career. From a junior designer to a senior designer, and eventually as the owner of one of the largest design firms in Poland. The fundamental difference lies in the fact that a design firm handles several dozen projects annually, utilizing a considerable number of less experienced designers overseen by a Chief Design Officer. As a freelancer, I only take on a few projects each year, personally engaging in each one with my full knowledge, experience and attention.

Why did I leave my own design firm?

One of the key aspects of being a designer is the ability to adapt. We constantly adjust, innovate, and rediscover the world. This principle extends not only to our work but also to how we shape our life and career path. I had the privilege of co-founding and leading Mindsailors Design Studio from its inception, contributing to making it one of the most prestigious and recognizable design studios in Poland. It was a period of intense growth, filled with successful projects, innovative solutions, and hard-earned recognition. However, there came a moment when I felt the desire for something new, perhaps just a yearning for the long-lost freedom. In 2017, I made the decision to sell my shares and embark on a new journey as an independent product designer. This decision was not just about freeing up more time for dreams but rather about seeking new challenges, diversifying, leveraging my extensive experience, and pushing the boundaries of creative expression. Paradoxically, as a freelancer, I can become more deeply involved in projects than as the owner or creative director of a large design firm (not to say I'll never return to that). It's important not to fear change, especially in one's professional life.