Interview with Ben Barry of Facebook

Sometimes I come across great designers by accident and, as it happens, a tweet via Jason Fried led me to discover the works of Ben Barry. Ben works as a designer for Facebook and has a fantastic portfolio  that I highly recommend checking out: designforfun.com

How did you become interested in design?
I think I was just born this way. I became increasingly interested in architecture and web design in high school, and then focused my studies on graphic design in college.

What aspect of a project do you enjoy working on the most, and why?
Actually making things. Refining them visually / craftsmanship / production.

Are there any resources (online or offline) you regularly use to find inspiration?
The local library
Used Bookstores
Books in general
Flea Markets

Your favorite font?
Font is the technical term referring to a single weight and style of a particular typeface. So I think what you really wanted to ask was “Your favorite typeface?”.

I don’t really know if I have a favorite. I don’t really spend a lot of type looking at specific typefaces, and I really only use 5-10. If really pressed to choose a favorite I’d probably say Gotham. As trendy as it’s become I think it looks good in just about any situation.



What advice would you give to students who aspire to work in design?
This is too broad to really give any useful advice. It’s almost like asking what advice would you give to people who aspire to live. So I guess basic stuff like be a good person, be nice, do good work, finish things on time.