Interview with S.A.I.T. Studio

S.A.I.T. Studio ("SS") interviewed on Tuesday, 13 May.

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

SS : At S.A.I.T. Studio, our experience as architects and designers is shaped by a deep commitment to creating meaningful spaces that improve daily life. Since our founding in 2018, we have worked across a wide range of project types including residential, hospitality, and commercial spaces. Our team brings together diverse backgrounds in architecture, interior design, landscape, and engineering, which allows us to approach each project from multiple perspectives. Over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with visionary clients, win international awards, and see our designs come to life in different regions. What drives us is the belief that design should not only solve problems but also evoke emotion and inspire connection.

How did you become a designer?

SS : Becoming a designer was a natural path shaped by curiosity, observation, and a desire to improve the spaces we live in. Each member of our team followed a different journey. Some began with a passion for architecture, others through art or engineering, but all were drawn to the idea of shaping environments that affect how people feel and function. Over time, this shared passion evolved into a studio culture where creativity meets responsibility. Founding S.A.I.T. Studio gave us the opportunity to turn this vision into practice and grow through collaboration, research, and built experience.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

SS : Our priority in every project is to create spaces that are functional, emotionally engaging, and responsive to context. We begin by understanding the needs of the users, the qualities of the site, and the purpose of the space. From there, we focus on spatial clarity, material honesty, and atmosphere. In terms of technique, we use a combination of hand sketches, digital modeling, and BIM tools to explore form, light, and detail. Our style is contemporary and balanced, with an emphasis on simplicity, natural materials, and timeless aesthetics. We believe that good design should feel intuitive, meaningful, and long-lasting.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

SS : Designing brings a mix of emotions, often starting with curiosity and excitement. There is a sense of discovery as we explore ideas, materials, and possibilities. At times, we feel challenged, especially when solving complex problems, but that also fuels creativity. As the design takes shape, a feeling of focus and flow takes over. Most of all, we feel a deep sense of purpose—knowing that what we create will become part of someone’s everyday experience.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

SS : Our backgrounds in architecture, interior design, and engineering have shaped the way we approach design from multiple angles. Academic training provided us with a strong foundation in spatial thinking, while real-world experience taught us how to respond to context, user needs, and practical constraints. Working in diverse environments and collaborating with teams across disciplines helped us develop a flexible mindset and a deep appreciation for detail. These influences have led us to value clarity, function, and atmosphere in every project we take on.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

SS : Our growth path has been shaped by a steady commitment to learning, collaboration, and quality. Since our founding, we’ve expanded our portfolio across residential, hospitality, and commercial sectors, always aiming to create spaces that are both functional and emotionally resonant. Winning international awards has been a motivating milestone, but our real focus remains on designing with purpose and vision. Looking ahead, we plan to take on more international projects, engage in academic and research-based collaborations, and continue investing in sustainable design practices. Our dream project would be one that integrates architecture, nature, and culture on a large scale. This could be a cultural campus, a public retreat, a sustainable hospitality complex, or even a contemporary airport that redefines the travel experience through comfort, clarity, and atmosphere. We are inspired by projects that bring people together and leave a lasting impression.

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

SS : For those just starting their design career, our advice is to stay curious, patient, and open to learning. Take time to explore different approaches and find your own voice. Focus on understanding people and how they experience space. Good design is not only about form, but also about empathy and purpose. Work hard, but don’t rush. Build strong foundations, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and never stop improving your skills. Design is a journey that grows with experience and reflection.

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

SS : uccess in design comes from consistency, curiosity, and a willingness to evolve. To fellow designers, artists, and architects, we suggest staying open to learning at every stage. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, challenge your own ideas, and collaborate with others. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, but stay honest to your own vision and values. Take time to understand the context and the people you are designing for. Let function and feeling guide your process. Most importantly, keep creating with intention. The more meaning you put into your work, the more lasting its impact will be.

What is your day to day look like?

SS : Each day at S.A.I.T. Studio begins with a review of ongoing projects and setting priorities with the team. Mornings are usually focused on design development, team discussions, and client meetings. We spend time sketching, modeling, and refining ideas to move each project forward. Afternoons often involve technical detailing, site visits, or coordination with consultants and suppliers. We also dedicate time to researching materials, exploring new technologies, or reviewing design references for upcoming work. Throughout the day, we aim to balance creativity with precision. Before wrapping up, we often regroup to reflect, share feedback, and plan the next steps together.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

SS : We follow design trends through international fairs, publications, digital platforms, and academic research. Staying informed helps us understand how user needs and cultural values are evolving, and where the design world is headed. However, while trends can offer inspiration, they are not the core of our approach. We believe in creating timeless designs that respond to context, function, and emotion. Trends are useful when they align with the project's purpose, but long-lasting impact comes from thoughtful, meaningful design decisions.

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

SS : A well-designed project is one that serves its purpose with clarity, connects with people on an emotional level, and responds to its context with care. Good design is not only about how something looks, but how it works, feels, and lasts over time. It should improve the quality of life, solve problems without creating new ones, and leave a meaningful impression. Receiving recognition from respected platforms like A’ Design Award confirms that a project has achieved this balance. It reminds us that thoughtful design, when executed with intention, can truly make an impact.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

SS : A design feels ready when it meets both the functional needs and the emotional goals of the project. We ask ourselves key questions: Does it solve the problem clearly? Does it reflect the context and identity? Is every detail intentional and resolved? We also listen to feedback from our team, clients, and collaborators. When the design no longer needs major changes and every part supports the whole, we know it is time to move forward with confidence.

What is your biggest design work?

SS : One of our biggest and most meaningful design works is the Liberty Signa Resort Hotel in Fethiye. This large-scale hospitality project covers 226,000 square meters and reflects our approach to blending architecture with nature, user comfort, and timeless aesthetics. It allowed us to work across multiple disciplines—architecture, interior, and landscape—while staying true to a unified vision. We were honored to receive the A’ Design Award for this project. The recognition affirmed our belief in designing with clarity, atmosphere, and long-term value in mind.

Who is your favourite designer?

SS : At S.A.I.T. Studio, we admire every designer who has managed to express their inner design language and leave a mark through their work. If we were to name a figure in interior design, Jean-Michel Frank stands out with his philosophy of achieving beauty with minimal elements. His belief that decoration means creating more aesthetics with less furniture still resonates with us today. The fact that he used his own furniture designs in his interiors and that his work remains influential since the 1930s is truly inspiring. In architecture, we would have loved to meet Zaha Hadid. Her vision and ability to challenge spatial norms continue to influence and motivate designers across the world, including us.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

SS : Our lifestyle and culture as a studio are built around creativity, collaboration, and curiosity. We work in an environment that values openness, continuous learning, and respect for different perspectives. Living and working in Istanbul exposes us to a rich mix of tradition and modernity, which naturally influences the way we think and design. We follow a hybrid working system, gathering at the studio on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This rhythm strengthens team communication while allowing space for individual flexibility. During long weekends, our team members can work remotely from anywhere. Some choose to continue their work from a coastal town, a different country, or even while traveling. Outside of work, we stay connected to art, architecture, and everyday life. Whether through travel, exhibitions, or nature, we constantly seek new experiences that feed our design process. We believe that a balanced and culturally aware lifestyle strengthens our ability to create spaces with meaning and depth.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

SS : Our work culture is built on trust, collaboration, and a shared passion for meaningful design. We value open communication, mutual respect, and the exchange of ideas across all disciplines. Every team member is encouraged to contribute creatively and take responsibility for their role in the process. Our business philosophy centers on creating long-term value rather than short-term results. We believe in designing with intention, responding to the needs of both the client and the context. We approach each project with care, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose. This mindset allows us to build strong relationships with our clients and collaborators, and to deliver designs that are not only beautiful, but also lasting and relevant.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

SS : As designers and architects, we believe our greatest contribution to society begins with creating spaces that improve daily life and promote well-being. Beyond our commissioned work, we support social benefit projects, offer pro bono design consultations when possible, and collaborate with local organizations on community-focused initiatives. We also value education and knowledge-sharing. Members of our team contribute to academic settings, attend public talks, and mentor young designers. We see design not only as a service, but also as a tool for creating positive change and building more inclusive, livable environments.

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

SS : Attending the A’ Design Award has been a truly rewarding experience for our studio. It allowed us to present our work on a respected international platform, connect with a global community of designers, and gain valuable visibility. Being recognized among such talented professionals motivated us to keep pushing our creative boundaries. One of the most memorable experiences was having our work exhibited at the MOOD – Museum of Design in Como, Italy. Seeing our design celebrated in such a setting was both inspiring and humbling. The A’ Design Award has not only elevated our professional profile, but also reminded us of the importance of designing with purpose, clarity, and cultural sensitivity.

S.A.I.T. Studio Profile