Chief Design Officer · Creative Director · Designer
Design is an act of love.
If we really believe in this idea of being focused on humans... why should I impose one design language on you?
Success is personal happiness. And so you need to be sure that you love what you do.
Form and function follow meaning.
If the technical skill is what defines you as a designer, maybe you’re not a designer.
Tom May reports from Milan Design Week 2026, highlighting seven standout installations ranging from Ai Weiwei’s politically charged silk collaboration with Rubelli to Paul Smith’s tranquil garden for Mini. Other notable projects include Samsung’s AI-driven exhibition, Simon Weisse’s miniature coffee shops, and Zaha Hadid Architects’ meditative portal for Audi. The article captures the event’s focus on physical, experiential design and cross-disciplinary creativity.
At Milan Design Week 2026, Samsung’s chief design officer Mauro Porcini discussed his philosophy that 'design is an act of love'. The article explores Porcini’s career from 3M and PepsiCo to Samsung, his human-centered approach to design, and his belief that emotional connection and diversity of expression are central to innovation. The piece also highlights Samsung’s 'Design is an Act of Love' exhibition, which showcased AI-driven, sensory experiences emphasizing empathy and individuality.
The PRINT Magazine 'Creative Director' page aggregates podcast episodes from the Design Matters series featuring various creative directors and design leaders such as Mauro Porcini, Jenna Lyons, and Nicholas Blechman. Each entry links to an individual interview exploring their careers and creative philosophies.
This episode of Design Matters, hosted by Debbie Millman, features an in-depth conversation with Mauro Porcini, President and Chief Design Officer at Samsung. Porcini discusses his philosophy that design should move beyond 'form follows function' to 'form and function follow meaning,' emphasizing human-centered and ethical technology. The discussion explores his career journey from Italy to global leadership roles at Philips, 3M, PepsiCo, and Samsung, and his reflections on belonging, learning, and the human side of innovation.