Designer Interview

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Interview with Fahad Alhumaidi at Monday 1st of July 2024

FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
FA: Since I was a kid, I've always been fascinated with constructing things. Playing around with woodworking and designing with LEGO sparked my passion for building and design. These early experiences made me fall in love with creating structures and ultimately led me to pursue a career in architecture and design.

FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
FA:
Here's the revised version with the inclusion of farmhouses and horse stables:

FIKRR Architects was founded in 2009, starting with small-scale projects such as fountains, kiosks, and other minor designs. Over time, we have grown and expanded our portfolio to include designing beach houses, commercial buildings, office interiors, farmhouses, and horse stables. Our journey from small objects to large-scale projects showcases our commitment to quality and innovation in architecture and design.

FS: What is "design" for you?
FA: For me, design is fluid and ever-changing. Nothing is fixed; everything can be transformed and adapted. Design is about embracing flexibility and innovation to create solutions that evolve with time and context.

FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
FA: I think I enjoy designing residential projects the most. There's something incredibly rewarding about creating homes where people can live, relax, and make memories. Residential projects allow me to blend creativity with functionality to craft spaces that truly enhance people's lives.

FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
FA: I don't have one particular favorite design. I have genuinely enjoyed every project I've been involved with. Each design has its unique challenges and rewards, and I find fulfillment in the creative process and the outcome of every project I undertake.

FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
FA: The first thing I designed for a company was a small fountain with a water feature. Although it was a modest project, it exposed me to the complexities of dealing with electrical and plumbing work. This experience was invaluable, as it taught me the importance of integrating various technical aspects into the design process.

FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
FA: My favorite materials to work with are wood and concrete. I appreciate the natural beauty and versatility of wood, as well as the strength and modern aesthetic that concrete offers. Both materials allow for a wide range of creative possibilities in my designs.

FS: When do you feel the most creative?
FA: I feel the most creative when I'm providing design solutions to overcome issues related to structure or mechanical design. These challenges push me to think outside the box and innovate, which is both stimulating and rewarding.

FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
FA: When designing, I focus on integrating the design with nature as much as possible. I strive to create harmony between the built environment and the natural surroundings, and I prioritize incorporating extensive landscaping to enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space.

FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
FA: When I design, I experience a mix of emotions, primarily feeling challenged and creative. Overcoming design obstacles and finding innovative solutions fuels my passion and drives my creativity.

FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
FA: When my designs are realized, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride. Seeing my vision come to life and knowing that my work will have a lasting impact.

FS: What makes a design successful?
FA: A design is successful when both the architect and the client are happy.

FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
FA: When judging a design as good or bad, I first consider the simplicity of the design, how well it adapts to its location, and its impact on energy saving. A successful design should be elegant in its simplicity, contextually appropriate, and environmentally sustainable.

FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
FA: From my point of view, a designer has the responsibility to educate clients on how design choices impact society and the environment. This includes explaining how the location of windows and the selection of materials can significantly affect energy efficiency and sustainability.

FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
FA: I think the design field is evolving towards greater integration with nature and a stronger focus on sustainability.

FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
FA: I haven't exhibited my work yet.

FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
FA: Exploring the internet, reading books, and keeping up with the latest articles in design.

FS: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
FA: I would describe my design style as centered on simplicity.

FS: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
FA:
Memory updated
Here's a refined version of your response:

I live in Kuwait, and I believe the cultural heritage of my country significantly influences my designs. Kuwait's old houses were built in a very smart way, adapting to the environmental challenges of the time without electricity. They utilized locally available materials, such as mud for walls and palms for roofing systems. This traditional approach to construction, which emphasized sustainability and environmental adaptation, inspires me to incorporate similar principles in my modern designs.

FS: How do you work with companies?
FA: I work with companies by closely communicating with them to understand their needs and providing design solutions.

FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
FA: My suggestion to companies for working with a designer is to ensure that their values align with those of the designer. When the company's values and the designer's values match, it creates a strong foundation for successful collaboration.

FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
FA: My design process begins with understanding the client's needs and vision. I start by conducting thorough research and gathering information about the project, including the site's context, environmental factors, and the client's specific requirements.

FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
FA: Fireplace, Bookshelves, Coffee Table, Lounge chairs, Paintings

FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
FA: A typical day in my life involves a balance of work, family time, and exercise.



FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
FA: My advice is to explore as much as possible. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with different styles, materials, and techniques.

FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
FA: Positives: Creativity, Problem-Solving, Variety of Work, Impact.

FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
FA: Design should enhance its surroundings, meet the needs of the clients, and contribute positively to the environment.

FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
FA: Designers must be able to identify challenges and find practical, aesthetically pleasing solutions.

FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
FA: I rely on a variety of tools and resources to bring my concepts to life. SketchUp is a great tool for initial designing and testing ideas, while AutoCAD is essential for translating those designs into detailed technical drawings that can be used in construction. Recently, I have been using Lumion to create high-quality renderings and visualizations that showcase the designs beautifully.

FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
FA: Designing can indeed be a time-consuming task, and managing time effectively is crucial. I ensure commitment to deadlines by setting clear, realistic goals and breaking down the design process into manageable tasks.

FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
FA: The time it takes to design an object can vary significantly depending on the complexity and scope of the project. Sometimes, it can be completed in a matter of hours if the design is straightforward and the requirements are clear. Other times, it may take several days or even longer, especially for more intricate designs that require detailed planning, and research.

FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
FA: As a designer, the most frequently asked questions from clients typically revolve around the price and timeline of a project.

FS: What was your most important job experience?
FA: One of my most important job experiences was construction supervision. This role allowed me to oversee the implementation of my designs, ensuring that every detail was executed according to the plans.

FS: Who are some of your clients?
FA: Most of my clients are private individuals

FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
FA: I enjoy designing residential villas the most. There is something uniquely satisfying about creating homes that provide comfort and shelter.

FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
FA: My future plans involve expanding my work to include real estate development.

FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
FA: It depends on the project. Some designs I develop myself, while others are a collaborative effort with my team.

FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
FA: Yes, I'm currently working on a waterfront villa projects that I'm particularly excited about.

FS: How can people contact you?
FA: Through website or email

FS: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
FA: Thank you

FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.

A' Design Award & Competition grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award & Competition cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.