- What is the inspiration behind your design firm’s name?
Studio Dashline stemmed from the idea of – how dashline is used in the field of architecture & interior design. It is used to highlight a hidden element in the drawings which is of great importance to the space but not directly visible. That’s how we want our work and design to be seen as, something of great importance and significance which is not directly seen (in terms of design style, in terms of our involvement in the project or in terms of how we touch the spaces in real-world – delicately)
- What is that one design book/movie you found inspiring?
The Architecture of Happiness” by Alain de Botton
- In what ways does your personality reflect in your designs?
My journey as an architect is deeply rooted in childhood nostalgia, where unconventional spaces ignited my imagination and sparked endless creativity. I strive to recreate that sense of wonder and awe-inspiring ambiance within intimate areas, crafting spaces that seduce inhabitants and visitors alike with their idiosyncrasies.
In essence, my designs reflect who I am—bold, imaginative, and unapologetically unconventional. They embody my relentless pursuit of beauty, functionality, and emotional resonance, inviting others to join me on a journey of discovery and delight within the built environment.
- What inspires you in your day-to-day architectural practice?
In my day-to-day architectural practice, what truly inspires me above all else is our clients. Their dreams, their aspirations, their unique perspectives—they serve as the driving force behind everything we do.
Each client brings with them a distinct set of needs, desires, and challenges, and it’s our responsibility to translate those into innovative and meaningful architectural solutions. The opportunity to collaborate closely with our clients, to understand their vision and bring it to fruition, is both a privilege and a source of constant inspiration.
Every interaction with a client sparks new ideas, prompts fresh insights, and pushes us to think outside the box. Whether it’s a family seeking to create their dream home, a business owner looking to redefine their workspace, or a community organization aiming to enhance public engagement, their enthusiasm and commitment to their project energize our team and fuel our creativity.
But beyond just the projects themselves, it’s the relationships we build with our clients that truly drive us forward. The trust they place in us, the shared excitement as we embark on this journey together, and the sense of fulfilment when we exceed their expectations—it’s these moments of connection and collaboration that make our work as architects so rewarding.
- Who is your favourite architect?
Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig
- Do you have a signature style? The one design philosophy you swear by?
We don’t have a particular design language that we use, but we love to contemporize different design styles through use of forms, details, fabrics, and materials but overall, our projects are very contextual and always try to remain true to the client brief.
- A hobby that sets you apart?
A lot of reading across different fields and somehow always help me with my design process in one way or the other.
- A message to those few young practising Architects out there?
To all the young practicing architects out there, as you navigate the dynamic and ever-evolving world of architecture, I urge you to focus on honing your skills in design development. It’s not just about creating aesthetically pleasing structures; it’s about understanding the intricacies of space, materials, and context to craft meaningful and impactful designs. Take every opportunity to observe the world around you. Capture moments through photographs, sketch everyday scenes, and immerse yourself in the built environment. By paying attention to the mundane, you’ll uncover inspiration and insights that can inform your design process.
Learn to appreciate the beauty and potential of materials and construction techniques. Understand their properties, limitations, and possibilities. This knowledge will empower you to push boundaries and innovate in your designs while ensuring practicality and sustainability. Always approach your projects from the standpoint of context. Whether it’s cultural, historical, environmental, or social, the context of a space should serve as the foundation of your design decisions. Let it guide you in creating solutions that are responsive, respectful, and relevant to the site and its inhabitants.
Furthermore, strive to develop a central concept for every design—a guiding principle that encapsulates the essence of your vision. This concept will serve as a compass, directing your choices and guiding you through the complexities of the design process. While it’s essential to draw inspiration from the world around you, remember to cultivate your own unique vision. Avoid the temptation to simply replicate what you see online or in magazines. Instead, curate a personal treasure trove of inspirations—a sketchbook, bookmarked pages, saved articles, books, prints, photos—that speaks to your individual creative spirit.
Embrace your creativity, trust your instincts, and dare to dream big. The journey of becoming an architect is filled with challenges and opportunities, but with dedication, passion, and a commitment to lifelong learning, you’ll carve out a path that’s uniquely yours.
- Which design blog/page/handle do you follow avidly?
Archdaily | Dezeen | Design Milk | Dwell | Architectural Digest
- What is the most challenging aspect of your job, and how do you overcome it?
One of the most challenging aspects of my job is managing the delicate balance between creativity and practicality. On one hand, I strive to push the boundaries of design, innovate, and create spaces that inspire and delight. On the other hand, I must navigate the constraints of budget, timelines, and client expectations.
Secondly, fostering a collaborative environment within my team allows us to leverage the diverse skills, perspectives, and expertise of each member. By encouraging brainstorming sessions, design charrettes, and interdisciplinary collaborations, we can explore innovative solutions to complex challenges and refine our designs to meet the demands of the project.
Thirdly, embracing a mindset of creative problem-solving enables us to approach obstacles as opportunities for innovation. Whether it’s navigating zoning regulations, optimizing space efficiency, or sourcing sustainable materials within budget constraints, we approach each challenge with curiosity, resourcefulness, and a willingness to think outside the box.
- What do you think is the next big trend in architecture?
I believe the next big trend in architecture, a shift towards more community-centric and human-centric design approaches. Architects will increasingly prioritize creating spaces that foster social interaction, promote health and well-being, and enhance the quality of life for occupants. This may include designing mixed-use developments, revitalizing public spaces, and incorporating biophilic design elements to reconnect people with nature.
Additionally, there will be a greater emphasis on resilience in architecture—designing structures that can withstand and recover from natural disasters, extreme weather events, and other unforeseen challenges. This may involve incorporating resilient materials, designing flexible and adaptable spaces, and implementing innovative structural solutions to enhance the durability and longevity of buildings.
- Describe your ideal workspace.
My ideal workspace is a sanctuary of creativity and inspiration—a place where the natural world seamlessly merges with the raw beauty of architectural materials, fostering a sense of connection and harmony. Picture lush greenery adorning the surroundings, bathing the space in vibrant hues and refreshing vitality. Ample natural light floods the interiors, illuminating every corner and highlighting the true essence of the raw materials that define our craft.
Central to this vision is a collaborative environment that encourages open communication, idea-sharing, and innovation. A spacious studio layout provides ample room for our team to work together, bouncing ideas off one another and nurturing a culture of collaboration and camaraderie.
Within this space, I envision a beautifully curated material library brimming with samples of textures, finishes, and colours—a treasure trove of inspiration for our design endeavours. Adjacent to it, a carefully curated book library offers a wealth of knowledge and creative inspiration, providing a sanctuary for quiet reflection and intellectual exploration.
To further enhance the sense of community and connection, I envision a cozy café attached to the studio—a welcoming haven where team members and visitors alike can gather, share ideas, and recharge over a cup of coffee or a delicious meal. This café would serve as a hub of activity, buzzing with conversation, laughter, and the hum of creativity—a vibrant focal point within our workspace.
Above all, my ideal workspace is an environment that fosters happiness, creativity, and well-being for everyone who enters its doors. It’s a place where passion meets purpose, where ideas flourish, and where the boundaries between work and play blur into a seamless tapestry of inspiration and fulfilment. In essence, it’s a space where dreams take shape, and where the magic of architecture comes to life.
- What is the most rewarding part of being an architect for you?
The most rewarding part of being an architect for me is witnessing our designs come to life in the real world and seeing them bring joy and fulfilment to our clients. There’s an unparalleled sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing the culmination of our creative vision manifest into tangible structures that positively impact the lives of those who inhabit them.
From the initial concept sketches to the final construction phase, each project is a labour of love that involves collaboration, innovation, and attention to detail. And when we finally see our designs realized, whether it’s a residential home, a commercial space, or a public building, it’s truly a moment of pride and accomplishment.
But it’s not just about the physical structures themselves. What truly makes this journey rewarding is knowing that our designs have the power to enhance people’s experiences, foster community engagement, and contribute to the cultural fabric of our surroundings. Whether it’s creating spaces that promote productivity and well-being in the workplace, or designing homes that nurture familial bonds and personal growth, the impact of our work extends far beyond the walls we build.
Ultimately, being an architect allows me to blend my passion for creativity, problem-solving, and human connection into a profession that not only fulfils me personally but also enriches the lives of others. And that, to me, is the greatest reward of all.