From science to design – an inspiring story about Ñom Studio
The story of Ñom Studio begins in Mexico, where Raul, the person behind the brand, comes from. Raul’s interest in art began to develop at a very young age through various museums and galleries, and his love for graphic design began after his father opened a professional print studio where he employed several graphic designers. From the age of 12 onwards, Raul enjoyed spending time in the print studio where he learned about graphic design techniques and tools, and it was there that he designed and created his first products. Although he did not study graphic design but focused on physics, Raul continued to create both during and after his studies, and it was during this period that the now famous Ñom Studio was born. 3 years ago, Ñom Studio, together with Raul, moved to Zagreb and added a touch of Mexico to the Croatian design scene.
Inspiration and the creative process
When it comes to inspiration, Raul says that he never lacks it because he finds it in everyday things around him. Whenever he comes across something interesting, he tries to record it in some way, whether it’s a mental image, a quick sketch or a photograph, so that he can later incorporate it into his design. He enjoys geometric shapes, graphics and textures the most, but lately he has been exploring vintage styles. He finds a lot of inspiration in traditional Mexican folklore and colors, and living abroad has introduced him to some new cultures and traditions, which he also sometimes incorporates into his designs. When asked what sets Ñom Studio apart, Raul sees the answer in the fact that every creative journey is unique, and his is especially marked by his personal story that combines traditional Mexican folklore with modern technologies. It is this combination of heritage and innovation that makes Ñom a unique brand.
Sustainability at the heart of creation
Every project for Nom Studio starts the same way, with hundreds of different sketches, through trial and error, until he comes up with a product he likes. This approach, Raul tells us, knows no rules or boundaries; the goal and desired result are what matter, without thinking too much about technique or rules. Raul attributes this approach to his lack of a professional design background. In his creative process, Raul pays great attention to ecology and sustainability, precisely because he cannot stand disposable products. He chooses water-based inks to reduce pollution and high-quality materials to ensure the longevity of the objects. His primary goal is to use recycled or organic materials, but even here he seeks high quality to ensure that the objects last as long as possible.
Challenges and dreams
Like most artists, designers and entrepreneurs, Raul has faced many challenges throughout his career. One of the biggest was the time spent finding new audiences and maintaining brand visibility on social media, which often takes time away from creative work. One of the most difficult and persistent challenges was gaining confidence in his own work, and for a long time he felt uncomfortable calling himself a designer. Now, looking back on that period, he realizes that a designer is someone who creates creatively, regardless of education or professional background, but as he says, it was a hard lesson to learn. Opening his own work to the public and being exposed to criticism is something Raul still struggles with today, but his love for creating is stronger than the fear of what others think.
With great uncertainties come great dreams, and that is for Ñom Studio to become a globally recognized brand. Such dreams are not easy to achieve, but, as he himself says, no one can take away his right to dream about it. While dreaming about the future of his brand, he is also actively working to increase its visibility in Croatia and Europe, and says that joining the LOKL platform is the right step towards that.
Ñom Studio is more than a brand – it’s a story of resilience, creativity and the pursuit of passion. From a printing press in Mexico to a solo studio in Zagreb, this designer’s journey is proof that art knows no boundaries, origins or expectations. His unwavering commitment to sustainability, culture and personal expression makes Ñom Studio’s future as bright and vibrant as the design that defines it.
