Interview with Alexander Flikshteyn

Alexander Flikshteyn ("AF") interviewed on Monday, 3 July.

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

AF : Over 2o years of experience in the design industry, I've had the privilege of crafting many projects for a diverse clientele, ranging from private companies to residential interiors. As a Pratt Industrial Design graduate, I have a solid foundation to thrive in any project. Understanding the universal nature of design, I approach each project with passion and innovation, infusing creativity and adaptability into my creations. With years of experience in the industry, I've had the privilege of crafting many projects for a diverse clientele, ranging from private companies to residential interiors. As a Pratt Industrial Design graduate, I have a solid foundation to thrive in any project. Understanding the universal nature of design, I approach each project with passion and great curiosity , infusing creativity and adaptability into my creations.

How did you become a designer?

AF : From a young age, drawing has been my natural form of expression. This love for creation has always remained with me. Also having family members in the field was very instrumental to influence and guide me on my path. The educational institution and major I chose was the closest extension of my deep appreciation for objects, interiors and architecture including film and became a seamless extension of my artistic journey.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

AF : In design, I thrive on problem-solving and improvement. This leads me to my favorite part: conceptual ideation. It involves everything from quick sketching on napkins for inspiration to exploring ideas through 3D computer-generated imagery, including the use of cutting-edge AI technology. The process continues with scaled CAD drawings, ensuring feasibility. Each new project stems from thorough investigation and research, and the style naturally emerges as an outcome.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

AF : I find great joy in exploring uncharted possibilities and adding my own unique twist to them. It is incredibly exciting to transform a mere thought into a tangible creation that will endure and positively impact the lives of others. From the initial spark of an idea onto a piece of paper, the journey towards reality is incredibly fulfilling for me.

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

AF : As a kid I always loved exploring and had a great sense of adventure and curiosity. I think to be a creator you need these attributes.

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

AF : My interest lies in designing furniture that blends technology relevant to the present with that of the near future. With the abrupt change in the world, I'm keen on adapting and creating objects that shape the new world. The evolving design will reflect new ways of interaction, work, and play.

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

AF : Adapt into your learning as many new AI tools as you can but also there is wisdom in old school drawing and building by hand. So just be curious and learn all you can.

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

AF : Make sure you love the process because like any profession there is the romantic side but also the tedious part. But if you love what you it will always give you the edge through any obstacles.

What is your day to day look like?

AF : Meditation 20 minutes, good coffee :) make a list plan for the day and get to work. Not very unique :)

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

AF : My natural curiosity is always exploring publications, environments peers projects but when you feel comfortable with your voice as a designer its not a problem. Artists, designers we all borrow from nature, history or each other its what we do with the information that gives us this unique point of view.

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

AF : Design is an expression, its a language it solves a problem, creates a feeling and tells a story. To me good design does all three in the most efficient way. May it impactful but only what's necessary not too much not too little. Like a beautiful song every note is necessary.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

AF : I feel it. And I try to get feedback too.

What is your biggest design work?

AF : I've designed building facades, such as hotels, restaurants private residential homes.

Who is your favourite designer?

AF : I like a lot of great guys out there Tadao Ando, Antonio Gaudi, Le Corbusier, I.M. Pei, Phillip Johnson list goes on.

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

AF : I come from an immigrant family that travelled across the world to United States where I grew up. I love where I live but, I consider myself a citizen of the world and I believe because of technology we all have access to information. I do have great aspirations to contribute to the world and help shape it and improve it for the better.

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

AF : Its all about synergy, listening is the most important skill to have working with people even if you disagree just the acknowledgement of understanding the opposing point of view is already a great dynamic because sometimes great things happen from opposing views as long as there is mutual respect ,passion and curiosity and openness to learning.

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

AF : I design for various clients every day that improves their lives and exponentially imroves the lives of other that are affected by them. However I am always open and interested in contributing to the world with any exciting and interesting opportunity to come my way.

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

AF : The A Design Award is a great organization providing a wonderful platform for designers, artists creators across the world. This is important because it underlines how important our work is and it contributes to the world culture of excellence and bettering our world. I found the organization very pro active and the communication extremely helpful.

Alexander Flikshteyn Profile