Designnobis

Designnobis

Designnobis, a multidisciplinary design and innovation studio based in Ankara, stands as one of the most prolific and internationally recognized forces in contemporary Turkish industrial design. Founded in 2006 by Dr. Hakan Gürsu, an esteemed academic and visionary designer, the studio has carved out a unique space where academic rigor meets industrial pragmatism. Under Gürsu’s leadership, Designnobis has garnered over 200 international design awards, ranging from the A’ Design Award to the International Design Awards (IDA), consistently placing Turkey on the global map for design excellence. The studio’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of innovation for a sustainable future. Unlike many firms that focus solely on the aesthetic or luxury market, Designnobis often tackles fundamental human needs through socially responsible design. Their portfolio is remarkably diverse, spanning sustainable energy systems, eco-friendly transportation, medical devices, and toys. A hallmark of their work is the ability to rethink everyday objects—such as solar-powered lighting units or modular furniture—to make them more efficient, accessible, and environmentally conscious. This focus on Design for Others reflects a commitment to solving the challenges of developing regions while maintaining high-end engineering standards. Strategically located within the Middle East Technical University (METU) Technopark, Designnobis operates at the intersection of theory and practice. This environment allows the team to utilize cutting-edge R&D and prototyping tools to transform complex ideas into market-ready products. Their work often challenges the status quo of industrial production, advocating for the Domestic and National Production movement in Turkey while ensuring their designs are competitive in the global arena. By blending an investigative approach with a sleek, functional aesthetic, Designnobis continues to influence both the professional design industry and the next generation of designers emerging from the academic world.

designnobis, design studio

— Arman Khadangan