We are designers whose mindset is shaped by alpine nature and mountain sports. Our approach is rooted in the mountain sports credo: by fair meansThrough this intentional approach, we’ve learned to take a clear stand. It allows us to practice good design and consistently sustainable strategies in any setting – whether on the mountain or in the studio.
Humility is at the heart of our work philosophy. It begins with respect for nature and the world around us. Honoring that is the foundation of every project we take on. A culture of mutual respect and collaboration shapes how we work – on every level, as a team and in every interaction, whether it’s with the mountain or with you.
Our way of working is guided by our values and ideals. by fair means exists for this very reason: We don’t want to – and we won’t – make compromises. We only work in alignment with our convictions: To help create a good life for all – and to dedicate our entire skillset to that purpose.
We work for impact.
We choose our clients with care – and with a clear eye on what their project is set to change. Whether it’s education, biodiversity, or social justice. Because design is more than looking good.
It can take a stand, build bridges, and challenge systems.
Focus Areas
Communication Design, Editorial Design, Process and Workshop Design, Sustainable Design, Strategy and Concept Development
Experiences
Conceptualization and Implementation of Educational and Event Formats; Event Management, Process Design & Hosting;
Additional Training/Certifications:
Partzipativen Prozessgestaltung und Führung, Hosting (The Art of Hosting)
One-year Social Entrepreneurship Training in Sweden (The International Youth Initiative Program)
Extended stays abroad in Norway, Sweden, and Brazil with a focus on sustainable development, regenerative agriculture, and social innovation.
Yoga instructor and trail running coach
Awards/Publications:
10/2021 "We Don’t Need This Education" DDCAST – What is Good? – A Podcast by the German Designer Club: https://socialdesign.de/was-ist-gut-ddcast-eine-podcastfolge-mit-stephanie-hobmeier/
03/2020 Interview with Social Design Lab, Hans Sauer Foundation: socialdesign.de/interview-mit-stephanie-hobmeier
10/2019 Social Design Award, German Design Graduates: germandesigngraduates.com
Diploma Thesis: "The Future Used to Be Better" – Key Competencies for Socially Responsible Design and Their Integration in Design Education
Focus Areas
Creative Direction, Strategie und Konzept, Kommunikationsstrategie- & Design
Experiences
Climate Education
Prepress
Event Planning and Design
Campaign and Brand Strategy
Typography
Additional Training/Certifications:
Trained Media Designer
Certified Climate Educator (KlimaAlps)
Ongoing training in:
Brand Strategy
Degrowth
Storytelling
Certified Breathwork Coach and Trail Running Coach
About me:
Hi, I’m Max. Founder of by fair means.
I started by fair means in 2019 – not because the world needed another agency, but because I had a clear idea of how meaningful design can drive change when it's rooted in real values.
It was never about fast growth or fancy buzzwords. It was – and still is – about substance. About asking the tough questions:
What really matters? And how can design, strategy, and integrity support real transformation?
My skillset? It’s a mix of everything I’ve picked up along the way – studies, training, side paths, additional qualifications, and all the in-betweens. I bring it all together in an approach that’s intentional, adaptive, and holistic.
How a about a free initial consultation?
Click the button and book a free appointment with us!
