JOYFUL DESIGN
Photo Jun 23, 1 13 42 PM (1).jpg

About

I leverage design to [re]connect people to the joy of everyday life.

Gabriel Wartofsky is a Los Angeles-based designer and strategist who leverages design to [re]connect people to the joy of everyday life. His work is dedicated to creating joy-driven products, spaces, and experiences that celebrate individuality while fostering a sense of community.

With a deep understanding of the intersection between design, technology, and culture, Gabriel has been at the forefront of innovation, shaping future-forward products and systems that blend delight with environmental responsibility. He has led cross-disciplinary teams across industries—from sustainable transportation and cleantech to finance, retail, and hospitality—consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Born in Washington, D.C., Gabriel holds degrees from both Georgetown University (2003) and ArtCenter College of Design (2009). He currently resides in Los Angeles, where he continues to explore the potential of design to create meaningful connections.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Founder & Design Director

GWDESIGN, LLC

2009 – Present (15 yrs)

  • 15+ Years experience providing design services to clients ranging from start-ups to OEMs, spearheading innovative design and strategy across transportation, cleantech, hospitality, and consumer R&D sectors, achieving groundbreaking product innovations and strategic market positioning.

  • Collaborated directly with Ye (formerly Kanye West) and Bianca Censori on YEEZY retail, vehicle, and architectural concepts, enhancing brand visibility and consumer engagement.

  • Directed the Honda Advanced Design project, conceptualizing branded autonomous mobility experiences for 2040, which significantly elevated user experience and positioned the brand at the forefront of automotive innovation.

  • Directed the design and fabrication of an e scooter and motorcycle for SUPERFAST, and LA-based mobility start-up.

Principal Design Strategist

KEY DESIGN STUDIO

May 2022 – Mar 2023 (11 mos)

  • Led research and ideation for future-state banking experiences, enhancing consumer engagement and brand strategy.

  • Guided the design of innovative branch concepts and mobile solutions, supporting targeted revenue growth through new product introductions.

Design Director

TEXINO

July 2021 – May 2022 (11 mos)

  • Pioneered Texino's evolution from a bespoke RV manufacturer to a leading mobile solutions provider, steering product innovation and development with a keen focus on industry-specific customization.

  • Orchestrated cross-functional teams to refine processes and elevate quality control, culminating in a 50% reduction in assembly time, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.

  • Spearheaded the development of bespoke RV designs for high-profile clients, including Seal and Cara Delevingne, significantly bolstering Texino's market visibility and establishing a robust brand identity.

Creative Lead

DASSAULT SYSTEMS, 3DEXCITE

2015 – 2020 (5 yrs)

  • Pioneered advanced CAD-based digital marketing strategies, creating immersive 360 experiences and activations that significantly enhanced client engagement and brand visibility. 

  • Spearheaded the development of a cost-effective pipeline for Honda America's internal visual assets, achieving over $1 million in annual savings by optimizing asset utilization and streamlining production processes. 

  • Collaborated with R&D teams to co-develop agile processes, markedly reducing project timelines by 30% and fostering product innovation through efficient workflow management.

Co-Founder/Design Director

CONSCIOUS COMMUTER CORPORATION

2010 – 2013 (3 yrs)

  • Spearheaded the launch of a pioneering e-bike startup, securing $765K in funding and a landmark pilot contract with Google, demonstrating exceptional capability in strategic fundraising and partnership development.

  • Orchestrated the e-bike's journey from initial concept to a fully functional beta prototype fleet, culminating in prestigious accolades at Milan Salon del Mobile, showcasing adeptness in product development and market introduction strategies.

EDUCATION

  • Art Center College of Design Bachelor of Science (BS), Transportation Design

  • Georgetown University Bachelor of Science (BS), English Critical Writing

SKILLS

Industrial Design & Strategy 2D/3D Visualization & Prototyping  CAD Modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360)  Rendering Software (TwinMotion)  Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects)  Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership  Consumer Insights & Market Analysis  Design Language Development & Brand Strengthening