Three of the most famous automotive designers of the 20th century began their careers in fields unrelated to car manufacturing.
The stories of the greats often begin with an unexpected turn — especially in the world of automotive design. Three of the most influential designers of the 20th century did not plan to tie their lives to car manufacturing. However, they were the ones who set the visual landmarks for an entire era and created silhouettes that are recognized at first glance.
Giorgetto Giugiaro, who received the title of Car Designer of the Century in 1999, did not dream of a career in the automotive industry. He began as an artist, passionate about painting and graphics. His talent was noticed by Dante Giacosa himself — the legendary Fiat engineer. It was he who invited the young Giugiaro to the Turin style center, giving him his first chance to prove himself in the automotive field. Later, Giugiaro would create dozens of iconic models — from the first-generation Volkswagen Golf to the DeLorean DMC-12.
Marcello Gandini — the man who brought the Lamborghini Miura and Countach to the world, was initially more of a technician than a stylist. He was interested in mechanics, drafting, and engineering systems. It wasn’t until the early 1960s that he found himself in the Bertone studio, where he ended up after Giugiaro declined a new project. This was the beginning of the path for one of the boldest designers of his time.
Tom Tjaarda, an American of Dutch descent, chose the path of an architect. He graduated from the University of Michigan, specializing in architecture, and only later switched to automobile design. His career began in the Ghia studio, and he later worked on models for Ferrari, Ford, Lancia, Fiat, and other brands. He is credited with designing such cars as the first-generation Ford Fiesta and De Tomaso Pantera.
Each of them came to automobiles in their own way — from art, engineering, or architecture. But it was this experience that made their works unique. Thanks to their different backgrounds, they did not just draw beautiful cars — they rethought the very idea of the automobile.