* A.A. Milne: The character of Winnie the Pooh originated in the stories written by A.A. Milne. While Milne didn't design Pooh visually, he provided the detailed descriptions of the character that became the basis for later interpretations.
* E.H. Shepard: The most iconic visual representation of Winnie the Pooh is due to the illustrations by Ernest Howard Shepard. He illustrated all the original Winnie the Pooh books, capturing the charm and simplicity of the characters in a way that resonates with generations. Shepard's drawings became the definitive visual image of Pooh and his friends.
* Disney: Disney Studios adapted the Winnie the Pooh stories into animated films and television shows, creating their own unique visual style for the characters. These designs, while drawing inspiration from Shepard's illustrations, are distinct and recognizable as part of the Disney universe.
Therefore, while no single individual can be credited with "designing" Winnie the Pooh, it's a collaborative effort between the author, the original illustrator, and the Disney studio, each contributing to the character's enduring appeal.