Interview with Skevi Farazi

Skevi Farazi ("SF") interviewed on Friday, 8 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

SF : When I finished my studies in NTUA -Athens I returned to Cyprus where I was lucky to have won a competition for a public building, a Town Hall with Gallery spaces in a rural town. This was a great experience in a teamwork, which formed my further steps in design. I was initially in association with Yiorgos Hadjichristou and then formed my practice S_FARarchitecture in 2001. A diverse portfolio of public and residential buildings, interior and open spaces, exhibition and furniture design were all developed thoroughly from conception to final proposal and realisation, either individually or within collaborations. In parallel I have been a lecturer at the Department of Architecture and Interior Design of University of Nicosia [Cyprus] and have been involved in the organisation of several exhibitions and architectural events. I also took part in workshops, symposia and presentations about architecture, theatre and museology.

How did you become a designer?

SF : Since my childhood I remember myself being curious observing others’ houses and the little details and settings that form their lives. My love for Maths -in a way a structured and methodical thinking- and arts made me soon realise that I wanted to study architecture.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

SF : One of the most important aspects during designing is the development and refinement of the main idea which will define the aesthetic balance and form a base reference for each further decision. A thorough research around the subject or thematic of the design will give an orientation for the final outcome. I always rely on hand sketches or physical models when developing the main concept and design.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

SF : I find the development of the concept idea the most creative and inspired phase of designing. Then comes the serenity which will make the designer being focused and motivated for the rest of the journey until the final pleasure of a finished project. That will lead to the satisfaction and joy and -if the project has succeeded to its aspiration- to an overall fulfilment!

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

SF : My advice to the young designers is to be fearless with the unknown paths and tasks, be always authentic, allow the unexpected and accept the diversity in the design expression.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

SF : I would suggest to anyone who believes they have succeeded with their designs, to be detached from their creation so they can allow to themselves to develop and progress further with their design expression.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

SF : I believe a good design is characterised by an aesthetic balance and how authentic and sincere it is to its purpose, function and its own environment.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

SF : Design awards have been significant contributions to my career, highlighting not only the awarded project but my overall work as a designer. Any participation to a competition will push me to the limits of my design skills to achieve the best outcome. This can only be a positive experience. I feel honoured to have been selected as the Designer of the Day!