Product Designer
Bicycle Manufacturing
Main Challenges
Develop a continuous evolution of the previous Kross Level model, creating guidelines for design development for the Kross brand.
Develop high-quality composite frame for Olimpic Games in Tokyo meeting weigh no more than 800 grams of final product.
Working on early COVID-19 pandemic realities and high market uncertainty.
The initial phase of this project began with in-depth research, uncovering the rich history of Robert Kubica’s impressive racing journey. Kubica’s career is a story of early talent and remarkable resilience. Starting in karting at age 10, he quickly rose through the ranks, achieving numerous titles in Poland and internationally. By 2001, he had advanced to Formula Renault and, by 2003, joined Formula 3, where he finished second in 2005.
Kubica’s breakthrough in Formula 1 came in 2006 with BMW Sauber, making history with his first Grand Prix win in Canada in 2008. That year, he finished 4th in the standings—the best result by any Polish driver in F1.
In 2011, a severe rally accident almost ended his career, but Kubica’s perseverance saw him return to racing in the World Rally Championship, where he claimed the WRC2 title in 2018. He then returned to Formula 1 with Williams in 2019, closing his F1 chapter in 2021. Kubica’s career remains a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport.
I designed 3 unique cycling graphics that perfectly reflect their owner's passion and professional history. It was an intense journey during which I jumped on his bike to immerse myself in his experiences and inspirations.
Virtual F1 track
I completed the F1 2019 game to fully understand the nature of racing and the world of the person I was creating for. My virtual pit stop allowed me to better understand their emotions and needs.
Designing with empathy:
I apply the same approach to every project. I put myself in the client's shoes to understand their needs and how they see the world. That allows me to create designs that are aesthetically pleasing, evocative, and carry a unique story.
Final step
After selecting the most suitable graphic concept, I proceed to the 3D design stage. It is crucial to thoroughly check how a bicycle's colours, finishes, and various options look. For this purpose, I most often use KeyShot or Blender software. These tools allow me to create precise documentation and decal shapes, which I then pass on to production.
Here is a detailed description of the process:
3D Modeling: Based on the selected graphic concept, I created a three-dimensional bicycle model. This model is accurate in terms of geometry and proportions, allowing for a realistic design presentation.
Texturing: I apply textures to the 3D model, replicating the chosen colours and materials. I can test different colour variations, finishes (e.g., matte or glossy), and types of decals (e.g., metallic, chrome).
Lighting and Rendering: I use realistic lighting and rendering techniques to obtain high-quality images. That makes the design look like an actual photo of the bicycle.
Documentation: I create precise technical documentation that includes detailed information on decals' placement, shapes, and sizes. This documentation is essential for the company producing the decals.
After completing the frame project, I felt a certain sense of unfulfilled need. Although the design was refined and satisfying, I needed something to create a cohesive and polished concept. That's when I decided to design clothing that would perfectly complement the frame, creating a harmonious whole.
My intentions were based on several pillars:
Colour consistency: The clothing would draw inspiration from the colour palette of the frame, using the same shades or subtle variations. That would create a cohesive visual composition between the project's two parts.
Stylistic complementarity: The clothing style should correspond to the frame's character. For example, if the frame exudes elegance and minimalism, the clothing should follow the same aesthetic.
Enrichment of experience: The combination of frame and clothing would create an aesthetic effect and enrich the user experience. The clothing would become an integral part of the whole, complementing and enhancing its perception.
The proposal to design clothing is more than just a matter of aesthetics. It is a natural evolution of the project, expressing the desire to create something more than just a functional object. It is a desire to create a cohesive story in which the frame and the clothing become inseparable elements, forming a harmonious whole.
