_ about me (personal)
Hello again, from Carsten — your globe-trotting, karate-kicking, photo-snapping UX designer.
You’ve gotten a glimpse of my professional journey and how I approach the world of design with a blend of creativity, empathy, and precision. Now, let’s peel back another layer. While my work fuels my passion for solving complex problems and crafting memorable experiences, there’s a whole world of interests and hobbies that shape who I am outside the studio. Here are some more personal details that bring color to my life and influence my work in unexpected ways.
When I’m not solving design puzzles, you’ll find me jet-setting with my family, exploring everything from the bustling streets of Asia to serene European art museums. These adventures are more than just stamps in my passport; they’re lessons in empathy, inspiration, and the art of seeing the world through multiple lenses.
Karate isn’t just my way of staying fit; it’s my philosophy for life and work. Much like the discipline and patience karate requires, I approach each project with steadfast focus and resilience, ready to break through challenges with a high kick or two. It’s taught me that the key to success, whether in a dojo or during a design sprint, is persistence and perspective.
Photography and diving are my personal retreats, offering moments of peace and an eye for beauty in the mundane. They remind me to look closer, appreciate the details, and always search for that unique angle—skills that pay dividends in the creative world of UX.
Meditation and Python coding might seem like they’re at opposite ends of the spectrum, but for me, they’re two sides of the same coin. Both require patience, focus, and a love for diving deep.
Yes, while others might unwind with the latest TV drama, I’m likely poring over a UX certification or untangling Python scripts—my kind of Netflix and chill.
In this tapestry of life, work, and play weave together seamlessly. Whether I’m drawing inspiration from a karate seminar turned family vacation or coding after a day exploring ancient ruins, every experience enriches my design work, bringing a fresh perspective to the digital canvas.
So, there you have it—a peek into the world of a designer who lives to blend the lines between work, creativity, and adventure. Ready to bring a dash of the world into your next project? Let’s connect!
_ faq
How do you kick off a new project with a client?
Every new adventure begins with a chat—either a virtual coffee over video or a good old-fashioned phone call. We’ll dive into your goals, challenges, and the vision for the project. Consider it like planning a trip; I want to know where you want to go, what you want to see, and how you like to travel. From there, I map out our journey, combining your insights with my expertise.
Can you work with clients in different time zones?
Absolutely! Having lived and worked across continents, I’ve mastered the art of time zone juggling. My MacBook and I are no strangers to odd hours, so whether you’re in Shanghai or San Francisco, we’ll make it work seamlessly.
What's your approach to deadlines?
I treat deadlines like I treat my karate practices — with discipline and respect. I set realistic timelines from the get-go and keep you updated every step of the way. If we’re ever at risk of missing a deadline, I’ll communicate early and adjust our plan of attack.
How do you stay updated with UX/UI trends?
Continuous learning is my secret weapon. Whether it’s earning new certifications, exploring the latest in AI, or even dabbling in Python, I spend my evenings expanding my skill set. This ongoing education, mixed with a healthy dose of real-world exploration, keeps my designs fresh and forward-thinking.
How involved can I be in the design process?
As involved as you want to be! Think of me as your travel guide. I’m here to navigate, but you’re always in the driver’s seat. Whether you want to make pit stops to explore certain ideas or take the scenic route through the design process, your input is not just welcome, it’s invaluable.
Do you offer any other services besides UX/UI design?
Absolutely! While UX/UI design is where I hang my hat, my skill set extends into several other domains. I offer comprehensive branding services, bringing your brand’s essence to life with a cohesive identity. Graphic design is another tool in my kit, whether you need standout marketing materials or compelling digital assets. For those looking to leverage the latest in AI, I also specialize in prompt engineering and chatbot development, ensuring your interactions are as smart as they are smooth.