Fabio Merlin
Co-founder and Creative Director of Aquest, Graphic Designer & Entrepreneur
He leads together with his 4 business partners a team of 40+ individuals focused on building innovative digital communication systems that push their clients forward. He is a graphic designer by training, but beyond that he is a creative young entrepreneur with a clear vision that blends design, user experience and technology.
Started in 1994 with a simple yet strong motto “Be humble, think big”, Fabio stand for great ideas and projects that allow companies and professional to work and produce easier, better and happier. AQuest's goal is to keep growing as a communication agency with a digital DNA, giving attention and chances to young Italian talents and closing gap between present ideas and future projects.
10 questions for Fabio Merlin:
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What did you do before becoming a designer/developer?
I started to work in the mid 90s, at 18 years old, right after finishing my graphic studies at the college. Along with Gianmarco (one of AQuest partner) , we worked in the back basement of a tiny coffee shop and I had no idea what it meant doing business, but I genuinely believed in my dreams and kept working while learning every day a new lesson.
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Where do you turn for inspiration?
I am inspired by everything, a picture, a sound, a shopping window, a panoramic view. I keep watching everything while surfing in the web, or walking down the streets of my city or driving my car through Italy.I love learning and I am a curious person.
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Which are your favorite studios, designers or agencies?
My 3 favorites are: Hello Monday , Be Reel, North Kingdom because they’re always one step ahead of everyone and set new trends. They rulez!
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Who do you side with: Team Mac or Team PC?
I am Definitely a Mac person , but I am not “fundamentalist”. It depends on the outcome of the work and on the project.
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Is your city a good place for designers?
My city is not exactly the most “fertile soil” for my work because we Italians, still don’t have a digital and innovative business attitude. But in my country we really have so many talented young people who cannot express themselves and one of my dreams is to create a place where they can meet and receive support to realize their brand new and innovative project.
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Which technologies are you excited about?
I am a super mega geek, therefore I am excited about all technologies, there is not one in particular.
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How many hours do you work each week?
It is hard for me to make a distinction between work and passion. I dedicate to my work about 60 hours per week, but most of them are just fun!
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Do you listen to music while you work? Describe your playlist.
Actually I don’t listen to music while working because most of the time I am together with other people. I am talking and coordinating the member of my team or meeting clients. I love music when I am alone, but I am kind of eclectic.
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What is your favorite book?
Re-work by 37signals
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What is your favorite sport?
Soccer and snowboard
