Interview with Mohammed Shais Khan from United States

I became a designer because of my inherent love for creativity and the desire to make a positive impact through design. The ability to transform spaces and enhance people's lives through thoughtful design choices was what drew me to this field.

As an independent designer, I operate my own design studio, offering services in furniture design, client-based product design, and spatial planning. I collaborate with clients to create bespoke solutions that align with their vision and needs. My job involves conceptualizing designs, conducting research, creating detailed plans and specifications and overseeing the execution of projects.

Design, to me, is the process of problem-solving and creating solutions that harmoniously blend functionality, aesthetics, and user experience. It is about understanding the needs and desires of users and translating them into tangible forms and meaningful designs.

My favorite kind of design is furniture design. I find joy and pleasure in exploring the intersection of form, function, and materiality. Furniture has the power to transform a space and influence the way people interact with their environment. It allows for creative expression while addressing practical needs.

A "good" design seamlessly integrates functionality and aesthetics, creating a harmonious balance between the two. It should be user-centric, and intuitive, meets the commercial value, and enhance the overall experience. Additionally, a good design should be sustainable, considerate of the environment and have a timeless appeal that withstands changing trends.

My design style can be described as contemporary with a touch of minimalism. I strive for clean lines, balanced proportions, and a focus on simplicity. I emphasize the use of high-quality materials and pay attention to fine craftsmanship. The main characteristics of my style are elegance, functionality, meets business level quality, and a refined aesthetic.

My design process begins with thorough research and an understanding of the client's requirements. I sketch initial concepts, create digital renderings, and develop detailed technical drawings. Prototyping and material exploration are essential to refine the design. Collaboration with artisans and manufacturers is crucial to ensure the design's feasibility and quality. Regular feedback and iterations contribute to the finalization of the design, followed by overseeing the production and installation stages.

Absolutely, my country's cultural heritage plays a significant role in my design process. I draw inspiration from traditional craftsmanship, indigenous materials and cultural symbolism. Integrating these elements into my designs helps preserve cultural identity while infusing a contemporary sensibility.

Winning the 2023 MUSE Design Award is a tremendous honor for me. It recognizes my dedication to excellence in design and validates our creative vision. It motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and pursuing innovative solutions. This award distinction also enhances my reputation and opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

The winning work I entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards was a Pinnaculum sofa that redefines comfort and style. I chose to enter this project because it represented my design philosophy and showcased my ability to merge contemporary aesthetics with ultimate comfort for people living in shared living spaces also there was a need for designing a sofa that maintains helps maintain privacy and comfort. The sofa's meticulous attention to detail, high-quality materials, and ergonomic features set it apart.

The challenge of this project was to balance the functionality of the sofa with the aesthetic appeal while keeping sustainability in mind. The obstacle was to design a sofa that is modular and can adapt to different needs and spaces. The challenge was overcome through extensive research and analysis. Internal factors such as historical and social perspectives, and external factors such as laws, production possibilities, information availability, and technology were considered during the process.

Winning the award has had a significant impact on my practice and career. It has increased recognition and credibility within the design industry, leading to new opportunities and collaborations. It has also boosted my confidence in my abilities and provided validation for my design approach. The award has helped expand my network and opened doors to a wider audience.

My top three favorite things about our industry are the ability to positively impact people's lives through design, the constant opportunity for learning and growth and the ability to collaborate with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

My homeland stands out in the design world, a lot of products are designed on day-to-day basics as they attain their maturity level thanks to its glorious cultural narrative and the remarkable combination of age-old craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. This merging of history and creativity leads to unconventional, culturally meaningful models. Additionally, my country's eco-friendly approach has made it a star in the international design arena.

Over the next 5 to 10 years, the design industry will see a further convergence of technology and sustainability. Design is increasingly data-driven and focused on enhancing the user experience through smart, connected solutions. Implementation of AI-based designs in industries for faster modeling. There will be greater emphasis on sustainable materials, circular design principles, and addressing social and environmental challenges through design interventions.

For aspiring students and MUSE Design Awards submitters, my advice would be to cultivate a strong foundation in design principles and techniques. Embrace curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas. Seek inspiration from diverse sources and continuously expand your knowledge. Emphasize the importance of user-centric design and always strive for innovation while staying true to your design philosophy.

Resources I recommend for improving design skills include attending design conferences and workshops, engaging in online design communities and forums, studying influential design books and publications, and seeking mentorship or internships with experienced designers. Additionally, staying updated with emerging design trends and technologies through online platforms and design-focused media is crucial.

I have kept something to myself from day one I am utterly awed by nature. There is something energy-giving about wandering in the wilderness and taking in each mini masterpiece with a microscopic eye. My creative juices get cooking, so I can come at design projects with unique insight.

Many individuals have inspired me throughout my life but one person who stands out is a renowned architect known for their innovative designs and commitment to sustainable practices. Their ability to seamlessly integrate nature into their architectural creations and their dedication to environmental stewardship has deeply influenced my design approach.

Finding success has been a long, winding journey– but one I would not trade for anything. My recipe for success involves lots of enthusiasm, determination, and dedication to learning something new every day. When you face adversity with open arms and stay true to your creative vision, remarkable things can happen. Take it from me, and never cease to grow as an artist explore, tinker around, and break out of your comfort zone!

I would like to thank MUSE Design Awards for the opportunity to participate in this interview. Design is an ever-evolving field and I look forward to continuing my journey to push the boundaries of creativity and make a positive impact through thoughtful design solutions.