Frequently Asked Questions

The answers, before you even have to ask.

What do you design?

While we are primarily an industrial design studio, we see design as a tool to solve problems — in whatever format works best. We’ve styled buses, invented cookware, designed kick-starter campaigns, created packaging suites, started and refreshed brands, built websites and apps, and prepared factory CADs. We’re committed to solving real problems in the most elegant, sustainable way possible.

Is there anything you don’t design?

Weapons, nonmedical single use products, and anything that raises environmental concerns. We prioritize sustainable materials and do not use animal products. There’s also a particular shade of green that Divya hates which is banned from the office.

I have a great concept but no idea how to start.

That’s fine! We’ve helped startups grow from a clever napkin sketch to a manufacturer of bestselling products. We’re more than happy to be on board from ideation to prototyping to factory selection to launch day.

How do I work with you?

Drop us an email with a brief description of your project. If it looks like a good fit we’ll arrange a call to talk your project over in more detail and get to know you a bit. Then we’ll write you up a quote and timeline and take it from there. We love building great collaborative relationships with our clients which is why we always prioritize phone over email and, if at all possible, in-person meetings. If you’re in or near Brooklyn, come on by! We have great coffee.

Do you do hourly consulting?

Absolutely. We consult with startups all the time, and work with accelerators and incubators too. We’re happy to do design reviews, talk over manufacturing options, do concept assessments and more.

Do you do mechanical / electrical engineering?

While our core team is designers and not engineers, we have a deep bench of contractors that help with the more technical side. If you have a project that combines design and tech we can most likely manage the whole thing in house.

We’re an established company looking for a subcontractor. Do you do this?

Absolutely. We have several subcontractor relationships in place with larger companies.

How much do you charge?

Our projects vary a great deal so we price on a case-by-case basis. Once we understand what you need we’ll write you a personalized proposal.

Do you accept payment in equity?

The short answer is no. However, we do occasionally drop our costs for projects that align closely to our values (sustainability, animal welfare, climate change, social justice). If you have a project in these areas, a flexible timeline and a limited budget we should talk.

How long does it take to bring a product to market?

It depends on the complexity of the project. Our record is two months, but most take significantly longer. Our rule of thumb is to budget no less than a year. Of course, there are exceptions and if you have a tight deadline let us know and we’ll see what we can do.

Do you sign NDAs?

Of course. You can send us yours or use our mutual NDA. We take IP very seriously and anything that enters the office stays confidential.

How did you start?

Isis started Spitfire as a solo practice back in 2016. We’ve since grown into a diverse team with dozens of fantastic clients and all kinds of products launched. No matter what the project is or who’s on it we are committed to excellent quality and aesthetics and a close attention to detail.

Why Spitfire?

Spitfire (noun):
1. A British fighter plane with a single in-line engine used by the R.A.F. during World War II.
2. A person, especially a girl or woman, who is of fiery temper.
Definition 1 is Isis’ favorite airplane. She wouldn’t know anything about the second.

What is your dream design project?

Isis: A TRAIN!
Divya: Anything travel related
Teddy: A concert
Sherry: Cat-approved furniture

Are you hiring?

If we have any open positions, they’ll be posted online. Follow us on Instagram and Linkedin to stay updated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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