Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ankur Meravi. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ankur, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
As a child, I was captivated by how things were made, often crafting toys from newspapers, bottles, and even ground clay. I loved turning everyday objects into something new and imaginative, whether it was creating intricate structures or whimsical sculptures.
As I grew older, I felt a pull to expand my horizons and dive deeper into the mechanics of creation. I was eager to understand the intricacies behind product design and development. The best way to do that was to tackle competitive engineering exams for premier institutes, where I could meet people from diverse backgrounds and learn from brilliant minds globally. So, I decided to pursue engineering, believing it would equip me with the knowledge of how products are made and open new avenues for my creativity.
I secured a spot in a National Institute of Technology with an option to choose between engineering and architecture. I decided to go for mechanical engineering over architecture—a choice fuelled by my curiosity about how things work on a fundamental level.
While studying, I became deeply involved in hands-on projects, working on engine research with a friend. He focused on technical research while I managed fabrication and vendor relationships. Simultaneously, I helped architecture students with their submissions, creating murals and organizing exhibitions for our college’s cultural fest. I lived a dual life: a mechanical engineer by day and a freelance artist by night.
One day, I was working late on a prototype for a competition, surrounded by sketches and models. I was there with a team of 4-5 engineers to build a go-kart chassis and outer body. As I tinkered with the mechanics, I felt a wave of inspiration hit me. I decided to merge my engineering skills with my artistic flair. I grabbed some spare materials and began to design a more aesthetically pleasing exterior for the prototype.
The next day, I presented both the technical aspects and my artistic enhancements to my seniors. To my surprise, everyone loved the idea of combining functionality with creativity. That moment crystallized for me the power of blending my two passions.
During this time, I realized I needed a career that fused my engineering background with my artistic interests. It was at a global art and design expo hosted by our college that everything clicked for me. As I walked through the exhibits, I felt a surge of inspiration and excitement, seeing how creativity could be seamlessly integrated with technical skills. The innovative designs and concepts on display opened my eyes to the possibilities within the field of design.
Although I initially aimed for MSc programs abroad, I received an offer from the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore for a master’s in design.
As I prepared to join, I connected with seniors who had navigated similar paths. They shared insights about product design and reassured me that it could be a perfect fit for my skills. This moment was transformative—I finally recognized that design was my calling, and there was no turning back.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m an Industrial Designer based in Mumbai, India, currently working with Jio Tesseract, a subsidiary of Reliance, a Fortune 500 company. I’m part of a dynamic team focused on designing hardware for AR/VR products.
My journey in industrial design began in 2018 when I joined Hamilton Housewares in Mumbai as an Assistant Manager of Design, shortly after completing my post-graduation. This experience was pivotal for my growth as a designer. In college, I learned various problem-solving techniques, but I wanted to delve deeper into the industrial aspects of the design process. Hamilton Housewares, known for its iconic Milton brand, which produces thermal insulated flasks and lunchboxes, was the perfect opportunity. There, I gained valuable insights into manufacturing, polymers, and how they influence design. I collaborated with vendors, market researchers, and sales teams to tackle the challenges of launching new product lines, including the “Venice Casserole” and “Curve Casserole,” which achieved sales of over 500,000 units combined within their first year, catering specifically to the needs of the Indian and Middle Eastern markets.
With a solid foundation in physical product development, I became curious about digital products and their impact on design. This curiosity led me to Jio Tesseract, where I currently work. My role as an Industrial Designer has been an exhilarating learning experience, particularly in navigating the complexities of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality.
One of our key initiatives has been the development of JioGlass Enterprise, our mixed reality headset. We recognized a significant market need for enhanced remote collaboration and training solutions, especially in industries like education, healthcare, and manufacturing. By addressing this need, we aimed to create an intuitive and immersive experience that would empower users to engage in virtual environments seamlessly, improving productivity and innovation.
Throughout the past six years, I’ve had the privilege of working with two leading brands in the Indian consumer segment, a journey that has profoundly shaped me as a designer. This experience has not only honed my technical skills but also deepened my understanding of the intricate dynamics of product development. What truly sets me apart is my commitment to holistic design thinking—I don’t just focus on user satisfaction; I prioritize collaboration and communication with a diverse range of stakeholders.
For instance, while working on the “Curve Casserole” project, I facilitated a series of workshops that brought together product managers, engineers, sales teams, and market researchers. One memorable session involved a heated debate about the product’s functionality versus aesthetic appeal. By actively listening to everyone’s perspectives, I was able to mediate and bridge the gap between competing priorities. This collaborative approach resulted in a design that not only looked great but also met the practical needs of our target market, ultimately leading to its successful launch.
I’ve learned that effective design is about understanding and addressing the challenges faced by each stakeholder involved. Whether it’s a CEO’s vision for innovation or a UI/UX designer’s insights on user behavior, I believe that every voice contributes to a stronger final product. By fostering open dialogue and leveraging collective expertise, I strive to deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations, all while upholding the integrity of the design process.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
As a seasoned industrial designer with six years of experience, my creative journey is driven by a passion for exposure and connection. I’m deeply curious about how people across the globe live, the challenges they face, and what ignites their passions.
For instance, during a project in a rural community, I spent time with local artisans to understand their daily struggles and the cultural significance of their crafts. I discovered that their tools, while functional, often limited their creativity. By observing their work and engaging in conversations, I realized that a simple redesign could enhance their process and empower their expression. This experience not only deepened my empathy but also reinforced my confidence in problem-solving.
Understanding diverse perspectives is crucial for my growth as a designer. Engaging with different communities allows me to see issues from multiple angles and fosters my personal development. By immersing myself in various ecosystems—whether through travel, food, or lifestyle experiences—I broaden my understanding and create solutions that resonate deeply with the people I’m designing for.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
Engineering has profoundly shaped my perspective, especially during my transition from Mechanical Engineering to Industrial Design. Initially, I tackled problems with a rigid mindset—solving problem A would yield solution B. This worked well for me as a mechanical engineer, but I soon discovered that industrial design doesn’t follow a linear path.
One pivotal experience was during a project where I was tasked with designing a new kitchen appliance. I relied heavily on my engineering background, focusing on functionality and efficiency. I narrowed my ideas down to two concepts that I thought were the most practical and presented them to my team. However, when I unveiled them, the feedback was disappointing. My designs were technically sound but lacked creativity and emotional appeal. The team felt that I had missed the mark in understanding the user experience and how the product could fit into people’s lives.
That moment was a wake-up call. I realized that I was constraining myself by sticking to what felt safe and structured. It was tough to accept, but I knew I had to change my approach if I wanted to create truly impactful designs.
Determined to overcome this setback, I began seeking inspiration outside my usual confines. I started visiting local markets, observing how people interacted with various products. I also immersed myself in different experiences—trying new foods and listening to diverse music genres—to spark my creativity.
With this new perspective, I returned to the kitchen appliance project. Instead of just focusing on functionality, I allowed myself to explore a wider range of ideas, considering how the product could enhance everyday experiences. When I presented the revised concepts, they resonated with the team. The designs were not only practical but also reflected a deeper understanding of user needs and aesthetics.
This experience was a turning point for me. It reinforced the importance of blending creativity with technical knowledge in industrial design. Now, I make it a priority to step outside my comfort zone, knowing that the best ideas often emerge from the unexpected.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: ounkur_m
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankur-meravi-0b474b19/
