Good People of vitruta: Ümit Kınoğlu

Welcome to Good People of vitruta, Ümit! Let's start with our classic question: Who is Ümit Kınoğlu? How did it all begin, where is it going, and what are you up to?

Thanks for the warm welcome! It’s a classic question, but it’s really tough to answer. I feel like the answer to “Who am I?” evolves every day—at least for me. I live by frequently asking myself who I am, who I want to be, and, most importantly, by dreaming.

In my story, my family’s role, and the love and legacy I’ve inherited from them, are huge. Back in primary school, when I had a new hobby every day, and in high school, when I was so involved in 10 different school activities that I barely had time for classes—during my “wild” university years, when I proclaimed my independence and ran off to America to study both Economics and Fine Arts at the same time—my family was always there, patiently and lovingly supporting me, even if they quietly wondered what would become of me. That’s probably how my story began, and it has never been a straight line since. :)

I’ve always tried different things throughout my life, constantly seeking new experiences. I made room for what I enjoyed and what I was good at. In university, for example, my passion was for math, so I majored in Economics, but where I really felt at home was in the lithography and painting workshops. I was on a path I didn’t know existed—a career where I could combine both interests. I’m learning to savor that now.

When I returned from the U.S., my first venture landed me in the company of incredibly talented artists, photographers, and other inspiring figures, producing content—a concept that didn’t really exist back then. Later, I got my first taste of agency life and design as a junior account executive at Daniska. After years of intense brainstorming sessions and challenging clients, I moved through those doors wearing both creative and managerial hats. But it was in the early months of the pandemic that my corporate life took on a new form, opening up entirely different doors for me. In the summer of 2020, I sold my first Nodo collar, embarking on a whole new adventure. For the past year, I’ve been channeling all my knowledge and experience into consulting companies and startups I cross paths with in branding and digital marketing, alongside my own brand.

I’ve taken on many different roles in diverse environments throughout my career. Communication and aesthetics have always been priorities for me, and I strive to work with purpose. I give 1500% to the things I believe in and never hold back. Dedicating myself to my work is just part of who I am. I draw, paint walls at home, walk with Bono, start my mornings with yoga, and love to write; these are my hidden pleasures in the time I carve out for myself. Life has taught me that each unique moment and opportunity comes only once, and living with a deep awareness of this has become my philosophy.

You work in all aspects of design, which we don’t see very often. How would you describe this multi-disciplinary passion for design?

Since my life and career are both multifaceted, I suppose it’s natural that I couldn’t stick to just one aspect of design. When I start working on something, I naturally want to learn all its angles or improve it. I’m not afraid of learning; in fact, it excites me. Once I start, I can’t sit still, and I enjoy applying the things I learn and enjoy to various parts of my life. After going through certain stages and realizing how much I love creating, design transformed from a job to a passion, and the rest followed naturally.

Since the day you created Nodo, we’ve seen it grow rapidly, with new categories emerging. How did Nodo’s journey begin?

Yes, Nodo grew quickly. For someone who dreams of the product development side of design, it was incredibly exciting and encouraging! The first seeds of Nodo were planted in July 2017, when I adopted Bono... He’s incredibly timid, yet gentle through and through, despite being abandoned multiple times. Loving him has changed me deeply. I couldn’t imagine how anyone could abandon such a creature. The communication I learned with him—based on awareness, body language, and trust—has become the foundation of Nodo’s principles today.

I’ve always loved creating and working with my hands. I made Bono’s first collar myself in the summer of 2019. Back then, we used a leather collar, but this timid, slightly horse-like, long-legged boy would pull on walks, and my hands would hurt from gripping it. I tied a knot in the middle to soften the leather strap, but it wasn’t enough, so I began searching for cotton rope alternatives in Turkey but couldn’t find any. But I did find cotton rope! I used a few nautical knots I knew, and soon I had my first handmade collar. There was a long journey from making that first collar for Bono to turning it into a product and brand. That original gray-black collar still exists! Of course, it looks quite different from today’s Nodo collars, but the core idea and purpose remain largely the same.

So it’s not just the colors that make Nodo products so loved. What do you prioritize when designing Nodo products?

Absolutely! Colors are the fun part. Without color, aesthetics, and most importantly, functionality, design just isn’t design. I created every Nodo product to strengthen the bond and communication between a dog and their owner. I describe my products as training-friendly, as each design is inspired by a different functional need. "Nodo" means knot in Italian, and the knot in the center of the collars became the brand’s inspiration. This small but magical detail reduces a dog’s pulling remarkably, enhancing the walking experience and fostering better communication. Behind this philosophy lies a story of years-long love and connection. And the hero of that story is Bono.

The journey that began with Nodo collars has a single goal: for every dog to call just one family home for their entire life and never end up alone on the streets! I hope every dog with a Nodo collar and their owner can have a connection as deep and harmonious as Bono and I share. No creature deserves the disappointment of being abandoned, especially dogs, who are creatures of habit and yearn for stability. When they’re fostered for a short time and then abandoned or sent back to a shelter, it leaves a profound and lasting impact on them.

I hope that every dog and owner with a Nodo collar strengthens their bond through communication. Whenever Bono allows it, I take in foster dogs as well. Dreaming big is important, and my ultimate dream is for every dog to be able to call just one place home for their entire life.

Moving on to your work as a graphic designer. You’ve brought many brands and projects to life with your ideas and designs. Could you tell us more about your work in that area?

I’ve had the chance to develop ideas for incredibly enjoyable projects with very creative people, resulting in high-quality work. While managing a fast-paced team, I also started getting excited about bringing my own ideas to life. After work, I began designing and sketching again in my free time. My background in fine arts—even the longing for it—made digital tools feel easier to handle.

I started in graphic design on the client side, identifying needs and creating functional, eye-catching ideas that made people stop and look. I started from the right place, I think. For me, design is inspired by need—or it should be. I don’t see it as decoration or just making something look pretty. Yes, it draws strength from aesthetics and colors, but it’s born from necessity.

What inspires you most in your designs?

Observing, noticing details, and everyday events. I love being aware of what’s happening around me when I’m on a walk or enjoying coffee in a café. I’m fascinated by catching small details. A finished design should be like a beautiful surprise—new and striking, but also familiar, like it’s been there all along once you’ve gotten used to it.

I find great joy in discovering practical, effective solutions to small everyday needs through design. In both my own brand and the brands I work with—where we can dream together—I’m always chasing solutions, because functional design is very important to me. Design should work on a functional level, serving a purpose and answering a question in any setting. I founded Nodo with the same approach.

Are there any books, podcasts, or films/series you’ve enjoyed recently that you’d like to share with us? :)

One book I’m reading right now that I highly recommend is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. It’s a fantastic novel for anyone who loves to reflect on the flow of life and personal stories, like me.

I watch a lot of films and even more series, but if I had to choose, I’d watch series for the rest of my life! Some recent shows that I’ve raved about are This Is Us, Ted Lasso, and High Maintenance.

Of course, Nodo has a special place, but could you share your top 3 brands from vitruta with us?

As you might guess, Bono’s favorite brand is Nodo! As for me, I enjoy a clean, simple look with a white top, accented by a pop of color or a striking detail. Sharp lines, and maybe a red lipstick when the occasion calls for it—that’s my style. vitruta brings together brands that align so well with my everyday look and aesthetic, which makes it hard to choose. You asked for three brands, so let me summarize with two products and two brands:

Chimi sunglasses and Dedicated beanies are some of my favorites. I’m pretty bummed that beanie season has ended, but thankfully Birken season is on its way :)

Rains – I admire both their products and their focus on quality and functionality in the brand’s philosophy.

I also adore the vibrant designs from LAR Studio. Watching young designers channel their energetic character into each piece brings me joy from both a graphic and product design perspective.