- What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
We strongly believe in creating spaces with stories, whether it’s a story of a client in a residential project or a story of a brand in a commercial one. It’s all in the plot, and design is just a tool.
- What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
It is a Netflix documentary series called Abstract: Art of Design. It highlights some of the most influential designers and offers an in-depth insight into their process. It was exhilarating because we often look at other design fields, like graphic or set design, for inspiration during the ideation process.
- In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
Our personalities are shaped by our experiences, and mine were always very contrasting in nature. My life in Dubai taught me to run wild with an idea, however far-fetched it seemed, and my life in New York taught me to value every inch and every penny spent. It gives me a good balance between creativity and practicality.
- What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
Space is an integral part of our memories. Knowing that we build spaces where people make memories gives meaning to what we do and keeps us inspired. In a way, it makes our design immortal as it lingers in people’s memories.
- Who is your favourite architect?
I like the Danish architect Bjarke Ingels and am always excited by his larger-than- life ideas. He challenges the common misconception that sustainability and creativity can not go hand in hand, and I admire that.
- Do you have a signature style?
I try hard not to because every space must reflect the person who lives in it, not the person who designed it. But, I was told there is a sense of calm and peace in the spaces I create, and I can settle if my “signature” is a feeling.
- The one design philosophy you swear by?
I have always believed in the harmony of contrasts and celebrating the bipolarity between intelligence and emotion. My design philosophy embraces this contrast and creates emotive spaces that merge aesthetics with functionality.
- The one design quote you find timeless?
“Creativity comes from a conflict of ideas” – Donatella Versace. As designers, more than merely processing information and developing ideas, challenging those ideas and having an inner conflict will nurture our creative thinking abilities.
- A hobby that sets you apart?
I love graphic design. I designed my website and my Instagram creatives, and it gives me great pleasure doing it.
- A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
Architecture and Interior design can be rewarding and stressful. So, don’t be discouraged by one hiccup. Put in the hours, be aware of what each experience is teaching you and try to put systems in place to implement those learnings. When you are aware of all the energy you put into your practice and truly know the value you bring to the table, it shows.
- Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
I like a Berlin-based blog called ‘Ignant’ because it covers art and design. I also follow ‘designwanted’ and ‘material source’. It is nice to stay informed of trends in other related fields and be updated with the latest materials.