Interview with Omar Qubain and Tina Saghbini

Omar Qubain and Tina Saghbini ("OQATS") interviewed on Thursday, 23 May.

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

OQATS : Before coming together and setting up our very own practice, both of us had separate yet rich experiences in the field of design. We first met at Scuola Politecnica di Design where we obtained a Masters Degree in Industrial Design. During that Masters program and we had the opportunity to intern at two studios based in Milan. Omar at Total Tool and Tina at Antonio De Marco studio. Prior to that we both had various freelance experiences.

How did you become a designer?

OQATS : We believe having an eye for design is something you are born with. However, that does not in any way make someone a designer. One can become a designer by studying and working hard, doing multiple internships, seeking out design problems and solving them and dare we say fail a few times along the way.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

OQATS : Our design process is anything but linear, when creating a design we tend to jump back and forth a lot. That said, the initial phase of our process usually starts with brainstorming, researching, mind mapping and creating a well rounded mood board. The second phase includes, but is not limited to: sketching, mock up making as well as continued research. The final phase includes making the switch to digital tools, and rapid prototyping and product testing. To put it shortly our approach is very simple and fun. We enjoy working on a new project that spark joy within its users.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

OQATS : The first phase is always the most fun and tantalising because this is where your imagination has no boundaries. Eventually, as with any project, difficult challenges arise which could be extremely stressful at times. However, it is all worth it when the project is realised and you get to see it with your own eyes.

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

OQATS : Moving abroad, forced both us to come out of our shells. In a way, we became more independent. Everything that takes place in our daily lives impacts our designs, whether we are conscious of it or not.

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

OQATS : Our dream is collaborate with well known brand and clients to create meaningful projects. Projects with the potential of creating tangible and positive change. Projects that spark joy and excitement.

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

OQATS : Be curious. Dream big. Sketch. Sketch Sketch.

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

OQATS : That is very humbling, however we believe we are still in the beginning of our journey. Therefore, we have yet to fully explore our identity and potential. A piece of advice to our fellow designers, artists and architects is to realise we are free to carve out our own unique ways of being and creating.

What is your day to day look like?

OQATS : magic starts after two

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

OQATS : As the saying goes “The trend is your friend”. So its important to stay up to date and keep an eye out for the latest developments in the field, be it materials and/or manufacturing technologies. However, more often than not we like to challenge the notion of trend following and break out of the mold.

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

OQATS : If the concept has little to no explanation, then that is typically the first indicator of good design.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

OQATS : This is a very subjective question. A design could be considered ready when you are satisfied with the final results, however it is never truly ready. There is always room for improvement, always.

What is your biggest design work?

OQATS : So far it is Pep. This is our first truly independent project.

Who is your favourite designer?

OQATS : Nendo, for his simple and clever concept.

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

OQATS : We live in Milan, arguably the design capital of the world. And we feel very luck to be here; immersed in an environment and culture that celebrates and continuously pushes the limits of design.

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

OQATS : Being of Jordanian and Lebanese descent and having had the opportunity to travel and visit many places, We have been exposed to various cultures and have discovered many different art movements along the way.This has ultimately contributed to our increased involvement and interest in the world of art and design. We are a team of two. Meaning we get to work with each other through any challenge that comes our way. Being in a team gives us the advantage to divide tasks and hence manage our time better. The most important thing when working together is being on the same page. Characteristics and personal traits that make up a good designer include: imagination, daring to be courageous, passionate, hard working and always striving to do better.

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

OQATS : With our work we constantly aim towards realising social and environmentally sustainable designs.

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

OQATS : This entire experience was a super positive one. Especially since we managed to get recognised from our first collaboration as after two. Winning this award, and gaining access to a big audience comes with its challenges. But it also helped boost our confidence in our craft and and vision; fuelling our momentum to keep pushing forward.

Omar Qubain and Tina Saghbini Profile