dsgn shmn

The Industrial Design of Terry Carr

what is the soul of a product?

I've often thought about this question. The first time I came across this concept, I only gave it minor consideration. But the more experience I gained in design, the more this question arose. The passion, creativity, and thought we put into designing a product matter greatly and affect how people resonate with that idea. But ideas take on different meanings as they are used and shared amongst others.

Our original intention is the spark that lights the fire, but the people who experience the idea, make it a part of their lives, and then do or create something unique based on that spark are the true magic and soul of a product. We all get inspiration from an idea that came from someone, even today. That's why I place much value on sharing abundantly. If we share our ideas, they will have the opportunity to inspire the next idea.

the inspiration

My grandparents grew much of their food and typically yielded more than they could consume, so they shared with neighbors. This concept of “growing and sharing the harvest” has been with me since childhood and has significantly influenced how I approach food, design, and life.

the why, how, & what

why "dsgn shmn?"

The subjects of flow, health & wellness, and the human body are of great interest to me, and I structure my days around practicing and learning about these topics. They permeate my design work and are a part of most things (meditation, exercise, sketching, growing food) I do.
And in true design fashion, I designed how I present my work and its associated branding. :)

Studied at two top design schools (CCS, ACCD) and holds a B.S. in Industrial Design from Art Center College of Design. Co-founded two consumer product companies and worked with top companies around the world. Holds 13 patents and shipped millions of products worldwide.

design services

A common theme throughout all of the work I do is innovation. Innovation can mean creating something new, but it usually means taking something known and applying it in a new and novel way… Those “why didn’t I think of that” moments!

I am skilled in every stage of the design process, from research to concepts to working with manufacturers to ensure we achieve the design intention.
Generating concepts is something that I love to do, and I practice daily.
I made the decision to use creativity to address the things I wanted to change in the world.
Creating something of beauty is gratifying, and I love doing it. Creating something that positively shifts our way of being is beauty on another level. You can have both, though…
Co-founding two companies and working for leading brands has taught me a great deal about developing and bringing a product to market.
Direction involves the “why” behind the brand and product and the vision of communicating that story to the right audience.

Let's Create

cultural immersion

Completing a difficult task with a group of people creates an instant bond, and there is a shared sense of grit and accomplishment. Where ever I travel for a project, I find a place to workout with the local community. The journey to find the location alone allows me to experience more of the area and connect with the culture.