We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative S.A.I.T. Studio ("SS").
S.A.I.T. Studio is an innovative architectural firm committed to creating inspiring and sustainable designs that add value to both the environment and society. Our recognition as one of the World's Top Companies in 2025 reflects our excellence and innovative approach in architecture. We are also proud to be the winner of the A'Design Award, which highlights our exceptional contributions to design excellence. Through our award-winning projects, we contribute to society by designing spaces that enhance quality of life, sustainability, and functionality. With a focus on smart technology and human-centered design, we are shaping the future of architecture and continuously pushing boundaries to make the world a better place.
S.A.I.T. Studio Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by S.A.I.T. Studio.
S.A.I.T. Studio Design - Armira Exclusive Villa Site
S.A.I.T. Studio Design - Liberty Signa Resort Hotel
S.A.I.T. Studio Design - Royal Residential Complex
Designer Interview of S.A.I.T. Studio:
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?
SS : At S.A.I.T. Studio, our journey began with a shared belief that design is a powerful tool to shape not just spaces, but emotions and experiences. With diverse academic and professional backgrounds in architecture and interior design, we’ve always been inspired by the idea of transforming daily life through thoughtful design. This passion naturally led us into the creative world of design, where we continue to explore how materials, light, and space can create meaningful human connections.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
SS : Founded in 2018, S.A.I.T. Studio is a multidisciplinary architecture and design firm based in Istanbul. Our team specializes in residential, hospitality, and commercial projects, always approaching each design with an innovative and research-driven mindset. We blend modern aesthetics with local context, creating spaces that are both timeless and emotionally resonant.
DI: What is "design" for you?
SS : Design is the first step towards meeting a need or triggering an emotion.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
SS : Every new design excites us. But we are especially drawn to projects that challenge us—those that push our boundaries and require deep research. These are the moments when we grow the most as a team and create the most meaningful results. Designs that demand critical thinking and contextual awareness align with our philosophy of crafting spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally and culturally rich.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
SS : Although the answer to this question can change over time, we deeply admire the work of Zaha Hadid. Her designs are timeless, innovative, and boldly unique—qualities we also aspire to in our own practice. What inspires us most is how she challenged conventional boundaries and created fluid, dynamic forms that redefined spatial experience. Her legacy continues to influence how we think about form, movement, and architecture’s emotional impact.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
SS : The first thing we designed for a company was a modern office for a software firm. Our goal was to enhance productivity and support social interaction. We used an open-plan layout, creative working zones, and dedicated rest areas. Natural light, light-colored surfaces, and sustainable materials helped us create a spacious and calming atmosphere that reflects both functionality and well-being.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
SS : Our favorite material is wood. It adds warmth, texture, and timeless elegance to any space. Its versatility allows us to use it in various styles and finishes, creating both natural and refined environments. As for technology, we rely on BIM (Building Information Modeling). It improves collaboration, precision, and efficiency throughout the design and construction process. BIM also supports better decision-making and helps us achieve more sustainable outcomes.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
SS : We feel most creative when we’re surrounded by a balance of inspiration and serenity. This might be during quiet moments in nature, in the early morning hours when the world is still, or while collaborating with a team that brings diverse ideas to the table. Creativity thrives when there’s both the freedom to explore and the focus to dive deep into the work.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
SS : When designing, I focus most on functionality and aesthetic harmony. It's essential to ensure that the space is not only visually appealing but also serves its purpose efficiently. I also pay close attention to user experience, making sure that the environment feels comfortable, intuitive, and inspiring. Finally, I always incorporate elements that promote sustainability, using materials and techniques that are environmentally friendly and durable.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
SS : Designing evokes a mix of curiosity, excitement, and responsibility. We feel inspired when exploring new ideas and materials. There is also a deep sense of focus as we shape spaces that will impact people’s lives. Most of all, we feel fulfilled when a design begins to reflect emotion, identity, and purpose.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
SS : When our designs are realized, we feel a deep sense of fulfillment and pride. Seeing an idea turn into a physical space that people can experience is incredibly rewarding. There is also a sense of humility, knowing that our work becomes part of someone’s daily life. It motivates us to keep designing with care and intention.
DI: What makes a design successful?
SS : When our designs are realized, we feel a deep sense of fulfillment and pride. Seeing an idea turn into a physical space that people can experience is incredibly rewarding. There is also a sense of humility, knowing that our work becomes part of someone’s daily life. It motivates us to keep designing with care and intention.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
SS : When evaluating a design, we first consider its functionality, emotional impact, and connection to context. A good design must serve its purpose, respond to user needs, and feel meaningful within its environment. We also pay close attention to proportions, material choices, and how the space makes people feel.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
SS : A designer has a responsibility to create spaces that improve people's lives while respecting the environment. This means thinking beyond aesthetics and considering social impact, accessibility, and sustainability. Designers should also protect cultural values, use resources wisely, and help shape a built environment that supports well-being for both current and future generations.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
SS : The design field is becoming more interdisciplinary, human-centered, and driven by technology. We see a growing focus on sustainability, social impact, and adaptability. Designers are now expected to respond not only to aesthetics and function but also to global challenges like climate change, mental well-being, and urban density. In the future, we believe design will play an even more strategic role—shaping healthier, smarter, and more inclusive environments.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
SS : As an architecture and interior design studio, we do not organize in-person exhibitions in the traditional sense like individual artists. However, we regularly attend design fairs and industry events. Our most recent participation was in 2024, at the MOOD – Museum of Design in Como, Italy, hosted by the A' Design Award team.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
SS : Our inspiration comes from life itself: nature, culture, people, and the emotions that spaces can create. We pay close attention to how people move, feel, and connect within different environments. Traveling, reading, exploring art, and staying open to other disciplines all help us stay creative. Above all, we let the context of each project guide us, allowing the site, function, and user needs to shape the design process.
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?
SS : Our design style is contemporary, context-sensitive, and emotionally grounded. We focus on clean lines, natural materials, and thoughtful spatial arrangements that prioritize user experience. What led us to this style is our belief that architecture should feel both functional and personal. We are drawn to simplicity that carries depth, where every element has meaning. Our approach begins with listening. We study the needs of users, the character of the site, and the cultural context. From there, we create spaces that not only serve practical purposes but also evoke a sense of atmosphere and belonging. Rather than following trends, we aim for timelessness, balance, and emotional resonance in every project.
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?
SS : We are based in Istanbul, a city where diverse layers of history and culture coexist. Living in such a rich and dynamic environment naturally influences our design perspective. We often find inspiration in traditional materials, spatial organization, and the balance between old and new. The cultural heritage of our country gives us a deep sense of place, which helps us design with meaning. At the same time, working in a fast-paced and evolving urban context brings certain challenges, such as navigating complex regulations and tight project timelines. However, these conditions also push us to be more creative, adaptive, and resourceful in our design process.
DI: How do you work with companies?
SS : We work with companies through a collaborative and transparent process. From the initial briefing to final delivery, we listen closely to their needs, goals, and values. We offer design solutions that align with their identity while also bringing fresh perspectives. Throughout the project, we maintain clear communication, ensure deadlines are met, and remain flexible to adapt when needed. Our aim is to build long-term partnerships based on trust, quality, and shared vision.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
SS : We suggest that companies look for designers who truly listen, understand their needs, and offer more than just visual solutions. A good designer brings clarity to complex problems, respects the company’s identity, and adds long-term value through thoughtful design. Trust and open communication are key to a successful collaboration. When selecting a designer, we recommend reviewing not only their portfolio but also how they approach design challenges, manage timelines, and respond to feedback. A designer’s process and mindset often matter as much as the final result.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
SS : Our design process begins with understanding the client’s goals, vision, and needs. We then move into concept development, refining ideas through continuous dialogue and feedback. Once the design direction is approved, we finalize the details and begin the implementation phase. This includes close coordination with contractors, consultants, and suppliers to ensure the design is executed as intended. Throughout the entire process, we prioritize clear communication, collaboration, and attention to detail to ensure the final result reflects both the client’s expectations and our design values.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
SS : Here are five of our favorite design items at home: Mid-century modern chair – Its clean lines and ergonomic form add comfort and timeless style to any room. Handcrafted wooden coffee table – A piece that blends natural texture with modern design, bringing warmth and character. Industrial lighting fixtures – They provide functional illumination with a raw, stylish edge. Textured throw blankets – These add a sense of coziness and a touch of color to any space. Minimalist artwork – Simple yet powerful, it enhances the atmosphere without overwhelming the room. Each item strikes a balance between function, aesthetics, and personality, contributing to a calm and harmonious home environment.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
SS : A typical day at S.A.I.T. Studio begins early with a review of ongoing projects and priorities. We start by meeting with the team to discuss design progress, client feedback, and any new ideas or challenges. Then, we often have client meetings to understand their needs and refine designs. The afternoon is spent working on design concepts, 3D renderings, or researching new materials and trends. Throughout the day, we collaborate with contractors, suppliers, and other professionals to ensure everything is on track. The day ends with brainstorming sessions or reviewing the latest design inspirations to stay creatively fueled. Every day is a blend of collaboration, problem-solving, and creative exploration.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
SS : Our advice to young, up-and-coming designers is to stay curious and open-minded. The design world is broad and constantly evolving. Keep learning new trends, technologies, and techniques, but stay true to your personal vision. Aim for a balance between creativity and functionality. A beautiful design also needs to serve a real purpose for the people who experience it. Build meaningful relationships with mentors and peers. Collaboration and exchange of ideas will help you grow faster and deeper. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them. Every challenge is a part of your journey. And finally, make sustainability a priority. The future of design depends on it. Stay passionate, patient, and persistent. In time, your work will gain both meaning and lasting value.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
SS : From our perspective, being a designer offers a great deal of creative fulfillment and the opportunity to positively impact people’s lives by shaping functional, aesthetically pleasing environments. The variety of projects keeps the work exciting, and the collaboration with clients and fellow professionals enriches the process. However, there are challenges—managing client expectations, working within tight deadlines, and balancing creativity with budget constraints can be stressful. Additionally, the pressure to meet high standards often requires long hours and careful attention to detail. Despite these challenges, the ability to create meaningful spaces makes the profession incredibly rewarding.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
SS : Our "golden rule" in design is balance. We believe that a successful design harmonizes functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Every element should serve a purpose while contributing to the overall experience of the space, whether it's through emotional connection, comfort, or efficiency. By maintaining this balance, we create spaces that are not only visually captivating but also practical, long-lasting, and meaningful for the people who use them.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
SS : For a designer, key skills include creativity, which allows for innovative and original thinking, and attention to detail, ensuring every element aligns with the vision. Problem-solving is crucial for addressing design challenges, whether it's spatial, functional, or budget-related. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with clients, contractors, and teams, ensuring ideas are clearly expressed. A solid understanding of technical knowledge—from materials to software tools—is important for accurately translating designs into reality. Adaptability is also critical, as designers must adjust to evolving client needs and project constraints. Lastly, time management enables designers to juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines without sacrificing quality. These skills together help designers create meaningful, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
SS : Our toolbox is a blend of digital tools, physical resources, and sources of inspiration. For design, we rely on software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp for detailed plans and 3D models, while Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) helps us with visual presentations and mood boards. We also use BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools for efficient collaboration and design coordination. In addition to software, we draw inspiration from design books, art galleries, and architectural landmarks, constantly seeking new ideas from nature, travel, and culture. Our physical toolbox includes materials like fabric swatches, sample boards, and color palettes that help us envision the tactile quality of a space. Combining these tools and sources allows us to create innovative and practical designs that align with our clients’ needs and vision.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
SS : Managing time effectively is crucial given the complexity of design projects. We prioritize tasks by setting clear milestones and deadlines at the outset of each project, breaking larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. We use project management tools like Asana to track progress and ensure that every team member is aligned and on schedule. Regular communication and collaboration are key, as we frequently check in on timelines and adjust as needed to stay on track. We also allocate specific time blocks for design, research, meetings, and revisions to ensure that each phase of the process gets the attention it deserves. This structured approach helps us stay efficient while maintaining the quality and creativity that define our work.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
SS : The time it takes to design an object from beginning to end can vary greatly depending on its complexity, scope, and client requirements. For a simple product, it may take a few weeks to move from concept to final design, including sketching, prototyping, and testing. For more intricate designs—such as custom furniture or larger-scale installations—the process can span several months. The timeline typically involves research, ideation, design development, material selection, revisions, and final production details. Each phase requires careful attention, iteration, and feedback, ensuring the final object is both functional and aesthetically aligned with the original vision. Effective collaboration with manufacturers and suppliers can also influence the overall timeline. Ultimately, the process is fluid and can vary based on the project's scale and unique challenges.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
SS : The most frequently asked question we get is: "How do you come up with your design ideas?" Clients are often curious about our creative process and what inspires our design choices. They want to understand how we translate their vision or space's functionality into a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design. This question usually leads to discussions about how we draw inspiration from various sources like nature, architecture, culture, and client input, along with our process of research, ideation, and collaboration to bring ideas to life.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
SS : One of the most important job experiences at S.A.I.T. Studio was working on a large-scale hotel renovation project. This project was crucial because it involved blending modern design with the historical elements of the building, while also ensuring that the space met the functional needs of a high-traffic commercial environment. The challenges of working within these constraints—balancing aesthetic appeal with sustainability, functionality, and budget—taught us invaluable lessons in problem-solving, collaboration, and client management. The experience reinforced our belief in the importance of adaptability and attention to detail, as every design decision had to align with the overall vision while respecting the building’s legacy. It was a turning point that helped us grow both technically and creatively.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
SS : As S.A.I.T. Studio, we are proud to have collaborated with a diverse range of clients across various sectors, focusing on hospitality, residential, commercial, and retail design. Some of our esteemed clients include luxury hotel brands, high-end residential complexes, and commercial spaces looking to blend functionality with aesthetic excellence. However, due to confidentiality agreements and privacy standards, we generally do not publicly disclose the specific names of our clients unless authorized. We strive to maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with all of our partners, ensuring every project reflects their vision and exceeds expectations.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
SS : We most enjoy hospitality design, particularly hotels and resorts, because they allow us to create immersive, emotional experiences that combine creativity, functionality, and luxury. We love designing spaces that make a lasting impression on guests and reflect their needs and desires.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
SS : Our future plans include expanding our portfolio into international markets and exploring innovative design trends like sustainable and eco-friendly design. We aim to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity while integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainability into our projects. Moving forward, we are excited to take on larger-scale, transformative projects that not only elevate the design industry but also create spaces that are meaningful, functional, and impactful.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
SS : We work as a collaborative team. Design is a process that thrives on diverse perspectives and expertise, so each project benefits from the input of our talented designers, architects, and other specialists. The best results come from teamwork, where every member contributes to creating cohesive and innovative spaces.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
SS : Currently, we have several exciting works-in-progress at S.A.I.T. Studio that we're thrilled about, though due to confidentiality agreements, we're unable to share specific project details just yet. However, we’re particularly focused on sustainable hospitality designs, where we’re integrating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions into luxurious environments. Additionally, we’re working on a few transformative residential projects, aimed at blending cutting-edge technology with modern, comfortable living spaces. We're excited to bring these concepts to life and will be happy to share more once they’re ready!
DI: How can people contact you?
SS : People can contact S.A.I.T. Studio through several channels: Email: You can reach us at our official email address for inquiries, project discussions, or collaborations. info@saitstudio.com; sait@saitstudio.com Website: Our website features a contact form, portfolio, and more details about our services. https://saitstudio.com/ Social Media: Follow us on our social media platforms for updates and to reach out directly. https://www.instagram.com/sait.studio/ Phone: Feel free to call us for immediate inquiries or consultations. +905551405299 We look forward to connecting with you!
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
SS : One important aspect we’d like to highlight at S.A.I.T. Studio is our commitment to personalized design solutions. Every project we undertake is tailored to meet the unique needs and vision of our clients. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, we work closely with our clients to understand their goals, values, and desired outcomes. This approach allows us to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also serve a purpose, enrich experiences, and reflect the identities of those who use them. We also place a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation in our designs. With an increasing demand for eco-conscious solutions, we strive to incorporate environmentally-friendly materials and technologies that align with modern, responsible design practices, ensuring our projects have a positive impact on both people and the planet. We’re excited about the future and continually exploring new ways to evolve in the ever-changing world of design.