Noé Chouraqui
Profession
BA Product and Industrial Design alum
College
Central Saint Martins
Person Type
Alumni
Biography
Noé Chouraqui is a French product and industrial designer with a strong interest in manufacturing processes, sustainability and new production methods. Noé graduated from BA Product and Industrial Design at Central Saint Martins in 2025.
Interview
Why did you choose to study BA Product and Industrial Design at Central Saint Martins (CSM)?
I chose Central Saint Martins for several reasons. Firstly, it is widely recognised as one of the leading institutions for design education. Beyond rankings, what truly attracted me was CSM’s open, experimental and interdisciplinary approach.
The opportunity of being surrounded by other design disciplines, from fashion to graphic design and architecture, was inspiring to me. The constant exposure to different creative practices and ways of thinking creates a rich, stimulating environment at CSM, encouraging curiosity and allowing students to naturally develop their own design identity rather than follow a rigid framework. I was also impressed by the facilities, from the Digital Lab to the extensive workshops for wood, metal and 3D printing. These spaces allow ideas to be tested and materialised quickly, which is essential in industrial design.
Finally, studying in London played a crucial role in my decision. The city’s cultural energy, its design ecosystem, exhibitions and museums create an environment where creativity is constantly stimulated. Combined with CSM’s international community, this made it the ideal place for me to grow both personally and professionally.
What have you been working on since graduating?
Since graduating, I have been developing my own startup called Hubris, which grew directly out of my final-year project at CSM, POINT. Hubris challenges the traditional sports ball industry by addressing overproduction and planned obsolescence.
The project centres around a fully 3D-printed ball, designed with a specific geometry and material that makes it up to 90% more sustainable than conventional alternatives, while maintaining performance, durability and playability. The aim is to question whether products truly serve users, or whether users are forced to adapt to inefficient systems. It has been tested by the international tennis federation (ITF) and Hubris is now moving towards commercialisation, with plans to launch in 2026 across tennis, padel and other sports.
Alongside this, I work at Batch.Works in London as a 3D Printing Operator, where I specialise in advanced additive manufacturing. This role allows me to work hands-on with a wide range of machines and software, while contributing to projects for major international clients. It has significantly strengthened my technical expertise and understanding of industrial-scale production.
What was the most interesting project you worked on during your time on the course?
One of the most interesting projects I worked on was Orbit, developed in collaboration with Sony during my final year. The project explored new ways for art and design students to capture and share inspiration more intentionally.
Orbit combines a handheld physical object with a companion app, transforming creative discovery into a playful, screen-free experience. It encourages emotional connection, interpretation and exchange, building a shared library of inspiration. Working closely with Sony’s design language, CMF and brand values was both challenging and extremely valuable.
This project gave me first-hand experience of working with an industry partner, from responding to feedback and managing deadlines to understanding client expectations, offering a realistic insight into professional practice within the design industry.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?
My main advice would be to be curious and proactive. This course rewards those who take initiative, ask questions and actively seek out information. Don’t wait for opportunities, create them. Take risks, experiment, and use the facilities as much as possible. Spend time in the workshops, explore different materials and processes, and don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is often where the most valuable learning happens.
Equally important are the people around you. Your peers are one of the greatest resources at CSM. Engage with students from other disciplines, share ideas, collaborate and learn from each other, this multidisciplinary exchange will deeply enrich your practice.
What was the highlight of your Central Saint Martins experience?
The highlight of my time at CSM was without question the people. The friendships, collaborations and shared ambition within my cohort created an incredibly supportive and inspiring environment.
Students consistently pushed each other to improve, sharing skills, contacts and knowledge. Combined with the support of technicians and tutors, this sense of collective growth made CSM a truly unique experience. Many of these connections continue to shape my professional life today.
What is the most important thing you learnt on the course?
The most important things I learned was the value of taking risks. CSM taught me to step outside of my comfort zone, to experiment across disciplines and materials, and to pursue ideas even when success was uncertain.
My final project, POINT, was a significant risk, technically, conceptually and professionally, but it ultimately led to international recognition and awards, like the Design for Planet award from the Design Council. The course showed me that during your studies you have a rare opportunity to explore boldly, fail safely and define what kind of designer you want to become.