Alvaro Uribe
"I aim to design products and experiences that inspire curiosity, magic, and joy. My goal is to create designs that bring a smile to users' faces by meeting their emotional needs, whether functionally or aesthetically"
Career
Alvaro Uribe, a designer born in the U.S. and raised in Colombia, holds a degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute. Following graduation, he worked as a consultant for renowned New York-based studios and consultancies, including Smart Design, Ecco Design, Studio Dror, Force Majeure, Curve ID, and Pollen Design.
In 2012, Alvaro launched his own practice, collaborating with brands to create impactful experiences across Industrial Design, UX/UI, and branding. That same year, he began teaching at Pratt Institute, where he is now a tenured professor. His work has been featured in leading museums, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and published in several prominent design outlets.
In 2019, Alvaro expanded his entrepreneurial journey by founding Aztro Marketplace, a platform designed to help international, design-driven brands enter the U.S. market. He successfully closed the venture in 2021.
Currently, Alvaro serves as Design Director for U.S.-based furniture brand Wooda, while continuing to collaborate with international brands and share his expertise as a professor at Pratt Institute.
Approach
I see design as a universal language—a means of communication between humans, expressed through physical forms that aim to enhance life by making it more joyful, meaningful, and efficient. Within this language, I infuse poetry, drawing inspiration from my artistic passions for dance, nature, and architecture. This approach breathes life into my designs, infusing them with movement, a sense of evolution, and a celebration of human ingenuity and engineered structures.
Collaborating closely with brands, I strive not only to bring my artistic vision to life but also to create a stronger connection between users and manufacturers. My goal is to balance business objectives with user needs, crafting products that exceed expectations—both in how they function or look. I aim to spark moments of wonder and curiosity, where users feel delight and fascination about products. I call this concept “emotional function”—a belief that true customer loyalty stems from products that transcend mere utility to inspire a lasting bond and elevate everyday experiences.
Clients and partners
Services
I offer a comprehensive range of design services, strategically crafted to align with your business objectives while elevating the user experience. My approach ensures that each project bridges the gap between the brand and the user, fostering loyalty and a deep appreciation for thoughtful design. By finding the perfect balance, I create solutions that deliver tangible business results and exceptional user satisfaction, resulting in a true win-win for all stakeholders.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Market research
Competitive Audit
Concept design
Design Development
Engineering Support
Prototyping Reviews
Packaging Design
BRANDING AND DESIGN DIRECTION
Product DNA Definition
Contemporizing of Offering
Portfolio / Brand Tune-Up
Product Strategy & Road mapping
Creative Direction
Art Direction
UX-UI
Web development
App development
Wireframing
User journey audit and mapping
E-commerce conversion
Brand guidelines