We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative SEBNEM BUHARA ("SB").
Born in 1975, Şebnem Buhara studied at Mimar Sinan University Architecture Faculty. She started her career at university in 1998 and continues her own company, Bou Design. Buhara has undertaken many projects that focus on architectural education and ability to use it in design and implementations. The main principle of her design attitude, as creating user-specific, simple and timeless spaces by combining the identity, desires and dreams of their clients with her own professional experiences. In order to continue this cooperation, she uses her own design furnitures and products in her projects. Buhara’s main design motto is to create a timeless line with bejeweled details.
SEBNEM BUHARA Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by SEBNEM BUHARA.
SEBNEM BUHARA Design - Su'me Table Lamp
Designer Interview of SEBNEM BUHARA:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
SB : I was born in 1975 and have always been deeply passionate about art and design. My journey as a designer began when I studied architecture at the prestigious Mimar Sinan University Architecture Faculty in Turkey. Even while I was still a student, I started my career in 1998, driven by an intense desire to create meaningful and beautiful spaces. Founding Bou Design allowed me to fully realize my vision of merging architecture with bespoke design elements. My design philosophy revolves around creating user-specific, simple, and timeless spaces. I achieve this by blending my clients' identities, desires, and dreams with my professional expertise. To ensure a cohesive vision, I often incorporate furniture and products that I have personally designed into my architectural projects. I have always wanted to be a designer because it allows me to transform spaces into functional works of art. Additionally, I am very inspired by art and am also a sculptor, which further enriches my design perspective. My main design motto is to craft a timeless line with bejeweled details, resulting in spaces and products that are both functional and visually stunning. This approach enables me to create environments that are not only practical but also imbued with a sense of elegance and timeless beauty.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
SB : BOU Collections represents my vision and passion for design, born from my background as an architect and designer. I founded BOU Design Studio in 2000, driven by the philosophy that design is a natural evolution of architecture. My aim is to infuse each creation with profound meaning, a captivating narrative, and timeless beauty. Our product range includes an exquisite array of lounge furniture, from sofas and armchairs to chairs, coffee tables, desks, and lighting fixtures. The style of our collections harmoniously blends contemporary Art Deco and Neo Luxury influences, bridging the gap between artisanal craftsmanship and modern innovations. Each piece in the BOU Collection is unique, reflecting my unwavering dedication to excellence in design and architecture.
DI: What is "design" for you?
SB : For me, design is the art of creating spaces and objects that resonate with both functionality and beauty. It is a powerful means of storytelling, where each creation reflects a unique narrative shaped by the identities, desires, and dreams of those who will inhabit or use it. Design is about merging aesthetic appeal with practicality, ensuring that every piece and space is not only visually stunning but also serves a meaningful purpose. It is a timeless endeavor, where the goal is to craft environments that endure and captivate, transcending trends and remaining relevant through the years. Ultimately, design is my way of bringing elegance, comfort, and individuality into everyday life.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
SB : I have a deep passion for designing both products and unique spaces.Designing new products and exploring unique materials excites me, as it allows me to push the boundaries of creativity and functionality. However, I particularly enjoy working on high-end residential projects, as they offer a deeply personal journey of translating the homeowner's vision into a luxurious and harmonious living space. Additionally, I have a passion for designing boutique hotels. These projects allow me to blend sophistication with comfort, creating memorable and immersive environments for guests.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
SB : One of my favorite designs is Su'me, which holds a special place for me as it was my first exploration into organic forms. It blends natural shapes inspired by nature with innovative design concepts. Su'me has received recognition, including the prestigious A'Design Award, highlighting its success in merging organic beauty with modern innovation. I am continually inspired by nature's organic forms, and integrating them into my designs allows me to create products that are both visually striking and functional.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
SB : Our last exhibition was during the January 2024 edition of Maison&Objet. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our latest designs and connect with fellow design enthusiasts. Looking ahead, we are planning to participate again in the January 2025 edition of Maison&Objet. Sizden gelecek onay veya revizyona göre bu girişleri yapacağım hemen.