From Umeå to Polestar: The journey of Juan Pablo Bernal

What does it take for a design graduate from Umeå Institute of Design to truly make a mark in the world of car design? Discover Juan Pablo Bernal's inspiring journey from student to influential designer at Polestar, and how his innovative approach is shaping the future of automotive design.

Juan Pablo Bernal's evolution is a story of determination and growth. Reflecting on his path, Bernal, shares how his early days were filled with uncertainty and the relentless pursuit of opportunities. 

"After graduating from the MFA Programme in Transportation Design in 2010, my first job came about through a combination of networking, applying to job postings, and leveraging the skills, knowledge, and contacts I gained during my time at school", he recalls. 

Today, Bernal stands at the helm of interior design at Polestar, a Swedish electric car brand focused on sustainability and innovative design, where he oversees both strategic projects and production-related upcoming models. His role is multifaceted, involving day-to-day operations and long-term planning. Beyond his core design duties, Bernal has also pioneered the company's influential presence on social media, fostering a vibrant community of design enthusiasts and professionals.

From classroom to career

Reflecting on his time at UID, Bernal emphasises the comprehensive training he received. "My education at Umeå Institute of Design provided me with a strong foundation in design principles, creative problem-solving, and project management", he says.

He believes that the hands-on experience and exposure to industry standards equipped him with the skills necessary to excel in conceptualising and executing design projects. Collaborating with diverse teams and receiving constructive feedback further honed his communication and teamwork abilities.

Looking back, Bernal offers sage advice to current students. "Embrace every opportunity for learning and growth. Build strong relationships with mentors, peers, and industry professionals. Take risks, explore diverse perspectives, and push the boundaries of creativity without fear of failure”, he says. 

A seismic shift in a changing industry

Bernal believes in the transformative power of design. "Design's importance in our industry cannot be overstated. It's about problem-solving, innovation, and enhancing user experiences", he says.

In a changing industry where the shift towards sustainability is paramount, Bernal and his team are equally committed to ethical and responsible design practices. 

"We collaborate closely with engineering, aiming to challenge norms by minimising parts, consolidating materials, and opting for recyclable options", he says. Bernal hopes that his team’s proactive approach can ensure that their designs not only meet ethical and social standards but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

Cultivating collaboration and innovation

As a design leader, Bernal's primary goal is to cultivate a shared vision among his team. "Our mission should always be to harness our collective talents to develop solutions that not only meet the needs of our users but also exceed their expectations", he says. 

Bernal tries to bring the same forward-thinking approach when tackling design problems, balancing the methodical and the creative. He leverages fast 3D tools like Blender to conceptualise ideas and understand problems from all perspectives.

"Rendering in context allows me to gain a full overview and translate concepts into 3D printed models, aiding visualisation and comprehension of potential solutions", he says.

This iterative process, from ideation to prototyping and testing, mirrors the rigorous training he received at UID, ensuring that every team member's input is valued and integrated into the final design.

What if you had a design superpower?

If Bernal could have a unique design superpower, it would be the ability to instantly visualise and materialise ideas in the minds of others. 

"Imagine being able to convey complex design concepts or solutions effortlessly, allowing everyone to see and understand the vision clearly. This superpower would bridge communication gaps, streamline collaboration, and catalyse innovation", he says.

Reflecting further, he adds a caveat. “On the other hand, I wouldn’t like to impose my ideas on the designers, but it could be an interesting way of communicating, fostering a collaborative environment where creativity flows freely, and diverse perspectives are valued”.

Juan Pablo Bernal's choice of superpower further reiterates his commitment towards embracing creativity and teamwork, offering valuable lessons for current and prospective students. 

“Most importantly, I would advise young designers to stay true to their passion and vision, trusting in their abilities to make a meaningful impact in the world of design. But the most important thing is to have fun”, he concludes.