The esteemed 10 recognises influential voices in the multidisciplinary design community in 2025. Criterion is based on approach, notable achievements and completed and anticipated projects.
This piece originally appeared in est magazine issue 55: ‘Faces of Design’. Â
Objects of Common Interest
Founders Eleni Petaloti & Leonidas Trampoukis
Athens, Greece & New York, North America
Our design work is best summed up as:
Designs that fuse functionality with art, creating engaging objects.
What aspect of your work are people most curious about?
People are often intrigued by the way we blend simplicity with storytelling, whether through materials or form. Every object tells a narrative, inviting users to interact with it on a deeper level.
What has recently challenged the way you think about design?
Living in an increasingly digital world has challenged me to rethink the role of physical objects—how can design create moments of real human connection and tactile experience in an increasingly virtual environment?
What person, building, product or art piece has had a lasting impact on your work?
The work of designers like Dieter Rams and Shiro Kuramata, along with the artistic influence of Donald Judd and Quasar Khanh, has had a lasting impact on my approach to design. Together, they’ve shaped my belief that design should be purposeful, innovative, and deeply connected to its context.
The three words we would most like people to attribute to our work are:
Considered, functional, engaging.
What is the one piece of advice you would share with an emerging designer?
Design with purpose. Focus on creating pieces that resonate on a personal level and serve a clear function rather than chasing what’s fashionable.
"Considered, functional, engaging"
– Eleni Petaloti & Leonidas Trampoukis
Where do you go to appreciate exceptional design?
We find inspiration in both the everyday and the extraordinary. Whether it’s a visit to an art gallery, a walk through nature, or simply observing the quiet details of objects in our home, exceptional design can be found everywhere.
Something you want to see more of in 2025? And less of?
More: Designs that prioritise sustainability, practicality, and lasting impact.
Less: Overproduction.