We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Aynur Kirduk ("AK").
Aynur Kirduk Concept Design is recognized as a design and implementation studio with an innovative perspective in the industry. Its founder, Aynur Kırdük, has been a professional with significant experience in interior design since 2000, having participated in various projects in this field. By working with prestigious firms and architectural offices, she has developed personalized space designs and managed implementation processes. In 2021, she established her own brand, transferring her experiences and design philosophy to her own business. Kirduk's designs establish a balance between aesthetics and functionality, addressing each project with an approach that reflects the users' needs and lifestyles. Viewing design as an expression of individual freedom, she treats each project as a new story that touches people's lives. In both commercial and residential projects, she transforms spaces with original designs, paying attention to even the smallest details. What makes her work unique is the combination of originality and attention to detail in every project.
Aynur Kirduk Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Aynur Kirduk.
Aynur Kirduk Design - Gokturk Villa
Designer Interview of Aynur Kirduk:
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?
AK : Since 2000, I have been a professional with significant experience in interior design. I have developed custom interior designs and managed implementation processes while collaborating with prestigious firms and architectural offices. In 2021, I established my own brand, bringing together my expertise and design philosophy to create my own business. The biggest factor that pushed me to become an artist or designer was the creative urge within me. Since I was little, I loved losing myself among colors, patterns, and spaces. I didn't always dream of becoming a designer, but the desire to find the balance between aesthetics and functionality pulled me down this path. Over time, I realized how interior spaces affect people's moods and quality of life. This awareness made me understand that spaces are not just four walls but also living environments. Thus, design became a passion for me. Throughout my journey, which started in 2000, I improved myself by working on various projects and gaining experience. Each new project motivated me even more and allowed me to deepen my understanding of the design world. In 2021, I had the opportunity to reflect my passions and experiences in my own business and founded my own brand.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
AK : Aynur Kırdük Concept Design is a design and application studio known for its innovative approach in the industry. We strike a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality in our designs; We approach each project with a focus on reflecting users' needs and lifestyles. Seeing design as an expression of individual freedom, we treat each project as a new story that affects people's lives. We transform spaces with original designs in commercial and residential projects and pay meticulous attention to even the smallest details. What sets us apart is our commitment to combining uniqueness and attention to detail in every project.
DI: What is "design" for you?
AK : Design represents personal freedom to me. It is also a process that reinterprets the past in a way that fits the language of the modern world and moves it forward. My design perspective shapes itself with a desire to surpass the existing and seek new expressions. Embracing this approach in my designs, I aim to offer an innovative perspective.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
AK : When designing interior spaces, the architectural form we address is not crucial. It could be an apartment, a luxury villa, or a boutique hotel. The idea of creating an original design enriched with personal touches, considering each project's architectural values, excites me.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
AK : We focus on how to create a unique and innovative spirit in the spaces of our projects. Therefore, each project becomes a source of motivation that fuels our creativity. As an outstanding example, I can talk about the villa project we completed in Göktürk. The 450-square-meter, three-story villa in Istanbul Göktürk was inspired by its location intertwined with nature. Therefore, while planning the project, we aimed to bring the tranquility of the outdoors inside. In this design, we uniquely blended the traditional charm of the Village style with modern luxury, combining interesting elegance with bold, contemporary aesthetics. The exterior pays homage to Village architecture while setting the stage for an avant-garde interior. By using light, space, and materials to create elegant richness, we showcased a harmonious blend of past and future. With this project, we aimed to redefine luxury while honoring cultural roots, transcending cultural boundaries, and emphasizing the universality of thoughtful design and innovation.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
AK : Sustainability and eco-friendly approaches play a crucial role in today's interior design and architecture. I prioritize considering and implementing these aspects in my designs. For instance, opting for materials like natural wood from renewable sources is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally beneficial. Additionally, I ensure that the materials used in the design process are recyclable. Integrating energy-efficient lighting systems and smart home technologies is also part of my eco-friendly approach. These technologies not only reduce energy consumption but also benefit both users and the environment. I also emphasize using eco-friendly products such as water-saving fixtures and energy-efficient devices in my designs. Furthermore, incorporating natural elements like green spaces and indoor plants in my projects aims to create healthier and more livable indoor environments. These approaches contribute to creating a sustainable living space alongside aesthetic and functional considerations. I enjoy utilizing current trends such as marble, natural wood, brass, bronze, as well as elements like mirrors and abstract paintings that enrich the design. I leverage modern, elegant, and luxurious design styles in my applications.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
AK : The moments I feel most creative are when I'm developing the initial concept of a space and experimenting with different materials and colors. I particularly enjoy finding unique solutions in spatial arrangements, special design details, decorative elements, and artistic additions, which truly inspire me while personalizing the space.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
AK : When designing, I focus on details that elevate the essence of the space and enhance users' experiences to the fullest. Finding a balance between functionality and aesthetics is paramount to me. I strive to create unique and personalized solutions for each project, weaving stories into every corner and ensuring people feel special. In design, I pay close attention to ensuring that every detail harmoniously fits together as part of a whole.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
AK : When designing, I experience a dual emotional spectrum. Firstly, there's the satisfaction of pushing the boundaries of given materials during the creative process. Secondly, there's the happiness derived from meeting our clients' dreams and expectations with precision.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
AK : During the intense work of the production process, we are in a flow. In this process, as we focus on solving the problems encountered in the project and translate the design in our minds into practice, we are not fully aware of the scale of our work. However, when we put the final touches, we see the smile on our client's face and with the flashbacks we experience, we realize what a special journey we have been through.
DI: What makes a design successful?
AK : There are many factors that make a design successful. From understanding the expectations of space owners to the boundlessness of our imagination, from using appropriate and high-quality materials to working with a skilled team, various parameters play a significant role in the success of a design.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
AK : Each project has its unique dynamics. The path to achieving a good design lies in being aware of existing limits and striving for excellence by pushing those boundaries. Designs that sustain the continuity of past and present with innovative approaches and solutions that add new dimensions to interior spaces should truly be evaluated as high-quality. This ensures that the design is both timeless and innovative.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
AK : The responsibilities of a designer towards society and the environment begin with adhering to the principle of 'reaching towards universality without severing local connections', which applies not only to spatial designs but to all creative endeavors. It's important to remember that your design integrates with the architectural fabric of your country. As a designer, every project undertaken for aesthetic purposes sets an example and carries representational value within its surroundings. Therefore, meticulous attention to every detail of the design is essential.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
AK : The field of design has undergone significant evolution due to advancements in technology, the increasing importance of sustainability-focused approaches, and the impact of globalization. Today, we have a more global design perspective with a trend towards integrating Eastern and Western aesthetics. While extravagance took precedence in the past, today elements such as minimalist luxury, comfort, and functionality are evaluated alongside visual aesthetics. Contemporary design approaches integrate Eastern and Western formations to foster new and innovative methods. The future of design is expected to be even more personalized and technology-integrated. Elements like smart building systems, innovative materials, and digital design tools will enable designers to offer more creative and efficient solutions. Additionally, placing sustainability and eco-friendly approaches at the core of design will be a significant factor shaping future designs.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
AK : Tracking spatial designs around the world from the past to the present certainly contributes significantly to the creative process. Additionally, I believe that being observant in all aspects of life and interpreting what you see make an even more important contribution to creativity.
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?
AK : Elegant lines, a modernism that incorporates aesthetic values of the past, and a minimalist luxury and comfort approach that enhances the quality of life in space define the main aspects of my design style. Working in diverse spaces over time has led me to discover and refine this approach. Solving each spatial problem helps clarify in my mind the necessities and potentials for the next project, contributing to the evolution of my design philosophy.
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?
AK : I live in Istanbul, Turkey. Istanbul is a city deeply rooted in history, blending Eastern and Western influences. It not only shapes my designs but also influences every aspect of my life. I believe the cultural traces in my designs largely stem from the impact of this city. One of the advantages of designing in this country is the unique synthesis made possible by living in a cosmopolitan culture.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
AK : When we meet with them in our office, we first listen to them. Having understood the world they imagine, we visit the world and determine our possibilities for transforming the information of these images. We outline the design using programs such as Autocad and 3DMax. We then identify and apply project-specific aesthetic styles, giving us the opportunity to add a unique touch to the project.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
AK : Every morning, I start my day with a walk along the seaside near my home. This routine helps me stay energetic and dynamic throughout the day. After my walk, I have a healthy breakfast, which helps me feel better both mentally and physically. As soon as I arrive at the office, I review the day's plan. First, I check the progress of our ongoing projects and review some drafts. Preparing for client meetings or workshop sessions with my team is also part of my morning routine. This preparation process is critical for the successful advancement of our projects. Afternoons are usually spent on project visits. Understanding our clients' expectations and observing the spaces firsthand play a significant role in the design process. These visits ensure that the projects are properly guided and that client satisfaction is achieved. I spend the rest of my day wrapping up my work. If I can finish my tasks on time, I participate in activities that contribute to my creative processes, such as art exhibitions, design events, or similar activities. These events are important sources of inspiration. However, sometimes I feel very tired after a busy day. In such cases, I meet up with friends in one of Istanbul's beautiful spots and enjoy the city. These social breaks help me rejuvenate both mentally and emotionally. As an animal lover, I live with my adopted cats at home. When I return home in the evenings, I end the day by spending time with my cats, who eagerly wait for me. The time I spend with them helps me unwind and find peace after a long day.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
AK : Here are a few tips for young individuals interested in interior design. Those looking to pursue this profession should first ask themselves: "Am I truly talented and determined in this field?" Interior design is both enjoyable and requires diligent effort. If they are prepared to work at a demanding pace and are ready to learn continuously, they can pursue education in the field and seek internships at leading firms. Keep Your Passion Alive: Always keep your passion for design alive. Design events and art exhibitions can be a great source of inspiration. Keep Learning: The design world is constantly evolving. Participate in online courses and workshops to stay updated on new trends and technologies. Be Environmentally Conscious: Sustainable and eco-friendly designs will become increasingly important in the future. Pay attention to these aspects. Be Open to Criticism: View feedback as an opportunity for growth. Listen to constructive criticism from clients and colleagues. Master Communication: Strong communication skills are crucial for the success of projects. Develop Your Own Style: You can draw inspiration from others, but strive to develop your own unique style. When you find your voice, your designs will become more impactful. Build Your Network: A strong network is essential for advancing your career. Connect with other designers, industry professionals, and potential clients. Every great designer was once young and inexperienced. What matters is dedication, continuous learning, and consistently delivering your best work.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
AK : One of the positive aspects of being a designer is the ability to freely express my creativity. Each new project holds the potential to be a work of art and provides me with great satisfaction. Additionally, the opportunity for continuous growth and learning is invaluable. The human brain is wired to feel happy when creating and succeeding. Therefore, it's hard to describe the sense of fulfillment that comes from completing a project to its fullest. On the flip side, challenges like time constraints and navigating budget limitations while striving for excellence in design can be daunting. However, despite these obstacles, achieving successful projects makes me see design as a significant reward in life. However, challenges do arise from time to time. Particularly, facing time pressures in projects and meeting client expectations isn't always easy. Moreover, our designs being open to criticism is inherent in the nature of our work. This situation pushes us to continually improve ourselves and become better designers. In summary, being a designer is both exhilarating and occasionally challenging. Nevertheless, these challenges help us grow and continually progress as designers.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
AK : Imagine designing your own space and creating environments where you would be happy living in.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
AK : The most important skills for a designer include creativity and aesthetic understanding, architectural technical knowledge, team management skills, the ability to think flexibly and adaptably in problem-solving, organizational and time management skills, and lastly, being open to a journey of continuous learning.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
AK : The tools I use in my design process are stored in a toolbox where I gather inspiration from both the digital and real world. I prefer to use a powerful computer and a high-resolution screen. I use digital tools like AutoCAD and 3ds Max for three-dimensional modeling of spaces. Additionally, I practically test the harmony of textures and colors with color palettes and material samples. Architecture books, design magazines, exhibitions, and experiences from my daily life, nature, and travels help me add unique touches to my designs.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
AK : The most challenging aspect of our work is time management. We have to exert superhuman efforts to deliver the projects we take on in a timely and thorough manner. Throughout the design process, I manage my time by keeping a calendar and setting priorities. Additionally, knowing that creative processes cannot be strictly regimented, I allow myself flexibility. Taking short breaks to keep my mind fresh and find inspiration is also a crucial part of my time management.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
AK : I consider developing large-scale projects that challenge me and my team, and tackling more complex works as a challenge in my design journey. Therefore, I look forward to future projects that are highly challenging.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
AK : I develop project designs individually in some cases, and in others, I work together with my professional team. However, we collaborate collectively during the implementation process to bring the projects to life.
DI: How can people contact you?
AK : You can reach us through the website www.aynurkirduk.com and our Instagram account at https://www.instagram.com/aynurkirduk.