In a world where interiors have become a true reflection of personality, the Alav Architect Studio is confidently setting the pace. Combining modern technology, a refined sense of style, and a deeply personalized approach, Fidan and her team create spaces that are not just beautiful but truly alive. In this interview, the Head of Alav Architect Studio, Fidan Alav, shares the studio’s philosophy, the latest design trends, and how unique architectural solutions come to life.
What inspired you to create a design studio?
I have always wanted to bring beauty and aesthetics into the world – to form a taste for harmonious, thoughtful interiors. It matters deeply to me that people live in a space that inspires them every day.
What do you think of your first project now?
Looking back, it now seems a little naïve – even amusing – but it was part of my journey. Everything has a beginning, and I’m grateful for that experience.
How has your approach to design evolved since founding the studio?
My eye has developed, and my taste has become more refined. I began choosing natural materials and working with clients who share my values. We are on the same wavelength, and this is felt in the result.
How does your studio balance aesthetics and functionality?
Functionality always comes first for us – people care not only about how a space looks, but how it feels to live in. At the same time, aesthetics are an integral part. Without it, there’s no emotion, no soul – and without soul, design is merely a picture.
What is the most unusual request you’ve received from a client?
Not exactly unusual, but certainly unforgettable – a project that required six children’s rooms for eight children. It was a very large, very warm family.
What has been the most significant project in your career?
Every project is a unique story. I pour my soul into each one, and perhaps the most important is always the one I’m working on right now.
How do you see the future of the design industry?
Design is steadily moving away from surface-level aesthetics and becoming an expression of culture. People are seeking meaning and character, not just style. The future lies in individuality – in creating spaces with a soul and a philosophy of their own.
