Spotlight: Meet Victor M Vezi From Pixelsoda

Today we’re talking to Victor M Vezi, innovator and founder behind local brand Pixelsoda. As a proudly South African brand, Pixelsoda is a contemporary product design studio that specialises in homeware and furniture design.

Victor M Vezi

Tell us about your background?

I was born in KZN but spent most of my childhood in Johannesburg. While I was still young, my curiosity about how things work became an invaluable asset, as I consistently found myself taking things apart (much to the dismay of my parents) to see how they functioned. Eventually, I pursued a career in Electronics Engineering. Then, I discovered my passion for design which led me to study product design, then later Brand Communications.

I believe that my career path has offered me a unique perspective and a well-rounded understanding of the different parts involved in product development/design and the inner works of marketing and brand communications.

Besides design, I’m also an international (semi-retired) Ice short track speed skater and the national short track (ice) speed skating coach for Specials Olympics South Africa.

Tell us about the history of the company and your ultimate focus?

I started Pixelsoda four years ago with a view to producing unique products to push the envelope of both form and function. Our current focus is designing and manufacturing mirrors, but we are working to expand our product offering to other homeware products.

What personally inspires you in your working life?

I am inspired by various things, which include my surroundings, traveling, friends, family, community, experiences, and my faith. I sometimes even draw inspiration from the seemingly unlikely objects and places – once I was driving in traffic and I noticed the tailgate light of the car that was in front of me. The light had an interesting profile that I really liked. I took a picture, and that shape is the inspiration for the profile shape of a bread bin that I am currently designing.

What are some considerations when designing products?

I believe that good quality design comes from striking a balance between function and aesthetics and in doing so, creating products that users can connect with at an emotional level. I try to archive this by stripping down the products I design to the bare essentials as well as using contrasting materials.

Planning a new product can sometimes be a nightmare. Can you tell us some of the common struggles?

Letting go and making peace with a failed product idea and managing the frustration of things that go wrong when trying to meet a production schedule.

Which designer inspires you?

I’m fascinated and inspired by both Phillip Stark and Mash.T Design Studio.

Phillip Stark – is amazing and timeless and has an amazing ability to balance his unique aesthetic while still designing commissioned products that are distinct to him but are still on the brand.

I’m inspired by the versatility and innovation of Mash.T Design Studio and seeing the evolution of the product offering.

The perfect place in your home to indulge?

Resting in with my two-year-old sleeping soundly in my arms.

I know very few of us are travelling right now but if you could where would you go?

Would have to be a tossup between Denmark and Finland. Denmark, because of its rich design culture and heritage and Finland – it’s where my favourite race is located.