Nikolaus Hafermaas

Prof. Nikolaus Hafermaas is a prominent figure in the fields of design and art, currently serving as the Managing Partner at Brandlab. He is also the Department Chair for both the Undergraduate and Graduate Graphic Design programs at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California. His academic background includes studies in visual communication and architecture at the University of the Arts in Berlin, complemented by an executive MBA from the Berlin School of Creative Leadership/Steinbeis University.1

Hafermaas has made significant contributions to design education, notably by developing a transmedia curriculum that integrates various design disciplines such as print, packaging, motion, and visual interaction design. This approach aims to prepare students to become innovative leaders in a rapidly changing creative landscape. He has been instrumental in fostering global collaborations through his role as executive director of the Berlin satellite program at ArtCenter.1

In addition to his academic pursuits, Hafermaas co-founded Triad Berlin, a leading design firm in Germany, where he served as chief creative officer and worked on notable projects like pavilions for World Expo 2000. He also founded Ueberall International, focusing on data-driven art installations that blend digital media with spatial experiences.1 His work has garnered numerous international awards and recognition from prestigious organizations such as AIGA and the Industrial Designers Society of America.

Hafermaas is an active speaker at design conferences worldwide and has been involved with various design initiatives, advocating for a seamless integration of technology and creativity in contemporary design practices.1