Frank Nuovo Interview

published Nov 8, 2007
Frank Nuovo Interview
After over sixteen years of design for Nokia and over ten years building and leading Nokia's company wide design group, Frank Nuovo has decided to independently pursue new product and brand development with a sharp focus on design and styling excellence.

Today, Nuovo works with Vertu as its chief designer, overseeing product strategy and design together with all of the brand's talented specialists.

He now operates through a new studio in Southern California called Design Studio Nuovo.

Dexigner interviewed Nuovo about Vertu and Industrial Design.

"I originated the Vertu concept and designs while Chief of Design at Nokia.

But it was a complimentary situation for Vertu for me to leave my post at Nokia - Actually the best thing to focus directly on Vertu needs.

Prior to leaving Nokia my guidance was that I either had to take on a greater role at Vertu or give it up to someone else.

I was not prepared to give it up so here I am!

The Vertu brand was created on its own merit brand wise and style wise, so it is healthy to evolve it as a holistic design challenge.

Purposefully my influence was to steer the design and brand elements as far from Nokia as possible when it made sense to do so.

Some attributes -such as core technologies and user interface principles are for instance the best in the world and common between the two brands.

There is no reason to artificially change something which is already excellent..."