We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Ghiath Al Masri ("GAM").
Passion to create a unique mass and standards of beauty, help to developed taste and importance of unifying beauty and efficiency
Ghiath Al Masri Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Ghiath Al Masri.
Ghiath Al Masri Design - Slabs House Residential Home
Ghiath Al Masri Design - Abstract House Residential Home
Designer Interview of Ghiath Al Masri:
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?
GAM : I never decided to be a designer. In my early life, I felt a hidden energy pushing me towards art and drawing. I discovered that the most enjoyable time for me was sitting and drawing everything around me.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
GAM : GMI Studio is an architecture artist gathering established in 2014 as an architecture practice. From the beginning, I led the designers to insist on being unique regardless of the prototype client we had. This approach opened up a better client network until we designed very unique projects in several countries.
DI: What is "design" for you?
GAM : Design is an status of creation an additional form to life
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
GAM : Architectural and interior residential sophisticated projects, with cutting edge forms.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
GAM : It was a unique shape architecture house , the challenge we encountered to deliver it to real life was a journey of concerns but finally we did it and the outcomes was stunning .
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
GAM : The first thing I designed for a company was a reception counter. This initial project was simple yet crucial in building trust with my clients, eventually leading them to entrust me with the design of an entire house.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
GAM : I have a particular affinity for raw materials that are naturally available. There is a unique beauty and authenticity in utilizing elements directly sourced from nature in my designs.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
GAM : I feel the most creative during my relaxation time. When my mind is at ease, new ideas flow more freely and I can explore my creative potential to its fullest.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
GAM : I primarily focus on the aesthetic appeal and practical functionality of a design. It’s important that a design is not only visually pleasing but also serves its intended purpose effectively.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
GAM : Designing evokes a blend of emotions in me. I experience concern and meticulous attention to detail at the beginning, which gradually transitions to enjoyment and excitement. When the design comes to fruition, I feel a profound sense of pride and accomplishment.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
GAM : When my designs are brought to life, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride and affection for the new creation. It’s immensely gratifying to see an idea materialize into something tangible and impactful.
DI: What makes a design successful?
GAM : A design is successful when it adheres to the principles of the golden proportion and achieves high functionality. The balance between these elements ensures both beauty and usability.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
GAM : The first aspects I consider are the proportion and uniqueness of the design. A good design should be distinctive yet balanced, without falling into the trap of exaggeration.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
GAM : Designers have a responsibility to combat ugliness and promote a sophisticated, comfortable, and practical lifestyle. Our work should enhance the quality of life while being mindful of environmental sustainability.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
GAM : The design field is constantly evolving as it adapts to human needs and technological advancements. Predicting the future of design is challenging, but it will undoubtedly continue to be a reflection of humanity’s progress and aspirations.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
GAM : My last exhibition was held in China. As for my next exhibition, I have not set a specific date yet, but I am always open to opportunities to showcase my work.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
GAM : My design inspiration often comes from interacting with other designs. Great designs leave a lasting impression on me, motivating me to explore and implement new ideas in my project.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
GAM : My design style is characterized by captivating proportions and a thoughtful combination of materials. I was drawn to this style because of its ability to create harmonious and visually appealing spaces.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
GAM : I live in Orlando, USA. The multicultural environment of the USA positively influences my designs, offering a rich tapestry of ideas and inspirations. There are no significant cons to living in such a diverse society.
DI: How do you work with companies?
GAM : I collaborate with companies by offering them my design services and proposing collaborative projects. This partnership approach allows for creative synergy and successful outcomes.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
GAM : Companies should carefully review a designer’s portfolio, as it showcases their skills, creativity, and past successes. A comprehensive portfolio is a reliable indicator of a designer’s potential to deliver high-quality work.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
GAM : My design process begins with identifying a few key needs. I then start sketching, letting the lines guide me to new creative directions. This intuitive approach often leads to innovative and effective designs.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
GAM : My favorite design items at home include the bar, sofas, sculptures, and light fixtures. Each of these pieces adds a unique touch to the overall ambiance of my living space.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
GAM : A typical day in my life starts with swimming, which helps clear my mind and relax. Afterward, I dive into designing, drawing inspiration from my surroundings and interactions. Spending time with my family also provides positive energy that fuels my creativity.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
GAM : My advice to young designers is to focus on their current projects and avoid over-planning. Concentrate on simplicity and the quality of your work, as these are the foundations of great design.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
GAM : Being a designer has many positives, such as having a clear mindset and enjoying living in the moment. However, it can also lead to moments of detachment from reality and living in one’s own creative realm.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
GAM : I use freehand drawing, CAD software, and 3D software. These tools help me bring my ideas to life and ensure precision in my designs.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
GAM : I manage my time by prioritizing tasks and balancing responsibilities. It’s important to take breaks and switch focus to maintain productivity and creativity.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
GAM : The time required to design an object varies depending on the needs, requirements, and constraints of the project.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
GAM : The most frequently asked question is, “Can you design this style yourself?”
DI: What was your most important job experience?
GAM : One of my most important job experiences was convincing a client to close a contract and approve a design. This experience taught me the importance of communication and persuasion in the design field.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
GAM : My clients include businessmen and women, particularly those with a love for art.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
GAM : I particularly enjoy designing hotels and resorts because they require a visual and atmospheric immersion that triggers my imagination and creativity.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
GAM : I prefer to focus on my current work and let opportunities unfold naturally, rather than making extensive plans for the future.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
GAM : I prefer to collaborate with others, as having another mind to interact with stimulates creativity and helps align the design direction.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
GAM : I am currently working on a 600-apartment compound with all facilities in Orlando, USA. This is an exciting and large-scale project.
DI: How can people contact you?
GAM : People can contact me via email at info@gmi-studio.com.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
GAM : These questions were comprehensive and covered a lot. Thank you for the opportunity to share my insights.