Interview with Ruya Akyol

Ruya Akyol ("RA") interviewed on Monday, 20 May.

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

RA : I completed my bachelor degree 10 years ago and I move to Milan to do my master degree in Domus Academy. During my studies I already started working for Claudio Bellini and I became the Studio Director in 3 years. After 5 years of working there I moved to Paris to work with Philippe Starck. And finally by the end of 2021 I launched my own design studio.

How did you become a designer?

RA : I had always been a creative person with a lot of imagination. I wasn't particularly good at drawing but I had an eye for color combinations.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

RA : For me the biggest inspiration is my observations. I love traveling and I mostly gather my inspiration from my trips. I always start with sketching and give it some time before I actually start building the idea.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

RA : Excitement!

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

RA : I am a very curious person and I love fashion. I like beautiful things and spaces. I think that made me become a designer.

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

RA : Launching my own company.

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

RA : Consistancy

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

RA : Doing a lot of research and consistancy.

What is your day to day look like?

RA : I try to travel and work from different locations. So my day to day life is not very stable and mostly chaotic. So I am never bored but mostly exhausted!

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

RA : I try to go to most of the design fairs in USA-Europe and Middle East

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

RA : Design can be very subjective but obviously there is a limit of being a good design and kitsch. I believe in Less is More so for me after designing a piece I always question if I can remove more from it.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

RA : I give it some time after one point and than come back to it and review. If I like it even after that time I proceed with the design.

What is your biggest design work?

RA : I designed a modular sofa called Ruhe and I use it at home as well. I believe that was a complicated yet a very interesting design.

Who is your favourite designer?

RA : Patricia Urquiola

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

RA : I am from Türkiye but I lived all my 20s in Europe. So my heritage feeds my more minimalist style with colors and textures. My husband is Swedish so I get inspiration from every part of my life. This includes lots of traveling - galleries - exhibitions - musicals etc.

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

RA : I like to collaborate with freelance designers and I am very open to receive comments. I love starting the design process alone and than get all the feedback. The best time I create concepts is when I am alone.

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

RA : It was my dream to receive an A Design Award and as a designer I got the benefit and all the support from the community to make that come true.

Ruya Akyol Profile