“CREATE BEAUTY, NOT PROBLEMS.”

Karim Rashid is one of the most prolific and influential industrial designers of his generation. With over 4.000 designs in production, spanning 40 countries and earning more than 300 awards, Rashid's work has redefined how we interact with objects, spaces, and experiences. His designs range from luxury goods to consumer products, furniture, lighting, packaging, and interiors, reflecting his philosophy of sensual minimalism—a blend of vibrant colors, flowing forms, and a focus on emotional connection with the user.

Born in Cairo, Egypt in 1960, Rashid grew up in a creative household—his father was an abstract artist. His family emigrated to Canada when he was five, where his passion for design blossomed. Rashid attended Carleton University in Ottawa, earning a Bachelor of Industrial Design in 1982. He later studied under the legendary designer Ettore Sottsass in Naples, Italy, before working in Milan at the Rodolfo Bonetto Studio. These early experiences shaped his approach to design, emphasizing creativity, boldness, and innovation.

Rashid's design philosophy revolves around making everyday objects more beautiful, functional, and emotionally engaging. He believes that design should enhance life and be accessible to everyone. His signature use of bold colors—especially pink, lime green, and orange—and organic shapes has become his hallmark. He often refers to design as a tool to create human connections and positive emotions, arguing that the physical world should feel welcoming and uplifting.

Rashid’s work spans numerous sectors and industries. He has created iconic designs for brands like Veuve Clicquot, Alessi, Umbra, Samsung, Kenzo, and Method. His Garbo waste bin and Oh Chair for Umbra are among his most recognizable pieces. The Garbo bin, with its flowing, sculptural form, broke away from traditional waste bin design, while the Oh Chair is a playful yet functional furniture piece that’s become a design icon. Beyond products, Rashid’s design work extends to interior design and architecture. Notably, he designed the Semiramis Hotel in Athens and collaborated on projects for the prizeotel hotel chain. His designs for these spaces reflect his unique style: dynamic, modern, and engaging, with a focus on creating spaces that stimulate the senses.

Rashid’s groundbreaking contributions to design have earned him widespread recognition. He has won prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Award, the Good Design Award, and the Industrial Design Excellence Award. He is also a frequent guest lecturer at design schools and has received honorary doctorates from institutions like OCAD University and Pratt Institute. In 2016, he received the European Cultural Centre Design Award for his personal contribution to the world of design.