Joy Alexandre Harb

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Joy Alexandre Harb ("JAH") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

JAH : I trained as an architect, focusing on the delicate balance between functionality and artistic expression. After completing my studies, I founded JYH International Architects, where I specialize in creating dream homes and reimagining luxury living. Over the years, I’ve built a portfolio that blends innovation with client individuality, emphasizing that every space should tell a story.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

JAH : Design is my way of expressing emotion and creating meaningful experiences. What motivates me most is the opportunity to bring ideas to life, turning abstract concepts into spaces people love. I became a designer because I’ve always been drawn to shaping environments that inspire and connect with people on a deeper level. It’s a passion I carry with me every day.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

JAH : Becoming a designer was entirely my choice, though it sometimes feels like the profession chose me. From a young age, I was captivated by spaces and forms, constantly observing how design affects our emotions and lives. It was a natural progression to pursue it professionally, fueled by a deep love for creating.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

JAH : I focus primarily on residential and renovation projects, often weaving luxury and comfort into the spaces I design. However, I aspire to take on more large-scale urban projects, such as creating dynamic public spaces that bring communities together and leave a lasting legacy.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

JAH : To excel as a designer, young professionals must develop a strong sense of individuality while staying open to continuous learning. Embrace bold ideas, refine your craft, and always listen to feedback. Greatness comes from combining technical skill with an unyielding passion for pushing boundaries.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

JAH : Good designers create aesthetically pleasing work. Great designers go further—they challenge norms, inspire through their creations, and evoke emotions that resonate long after the project is finished. A great designer’s work is transformative.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

JAH : A good design is one that serves its purpose while evoking a strong emotional response. For me, great design combines beauty, function, and storytelling—it doesn’t just meet needs but enriches lives and leaves a lasting impression.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

JAH : Good design elevates everyday experiences, improves functionality, and creates emotional connections. Investing in quality design is investing in a better quality of life. It impacts how we feel, work, and interact with the world around us.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

JAH : If time allowed, I’d love to create a space dedicated to fostering creativity, such as an artist’s retreat or cultural hub. It would be for dreamers, thinkers, and creators—a sanctuary where innovation and artistry come alive.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

JAH : I’ve always dreamed of designing a downtown district that merges architectural innovation with cultural significance. It would be a place that redefines urban living while preserving a city’s heritage, offering people a sense of belonging and inspiration.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

JAH : The key to my success lies in authenticity and passion. I approach every project with the belief that design is not just about understanding—it’s about feeling. Staying true to my vision and connecting with clients has been my guiding principle.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

JAH : Zaha Hadid’s work has been a constant source of inspiration. Her bold, fluid designs challenge conventions and redefine what’s possible. I also admire architects and designers who prioritize storytelling and emotion in their work.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

JAH : I deeply admire Zaha Hadid’s projects, especially her audacious and unconventional approach. Her designs are not just structures; they’re experiences. The organic flow and groundbreaking forms in her work are what I strive to emulate in my own way.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

JAH : My greatest designs are those that reflect my clients’ personalities while achieving a perfect balance of functionality and artistry. The emotional impact of a space, when it feels truly unique and tailored, is what defines greatness for me.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

JAH : Improvement starts with self-reflection and a commitment to growth. I constantly analyze my work, embrace challenges, and seek inspiration from diverse sources. To become better, one must never stop exploring or learning.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

JAH : If I weren’t a designer, I would likely have pursued a career in psychology or philosophy. Both fields intrigue me because they explore the human mind and emotions, which are central to how we experience spaces and design. Understanding people on a deeper level is something I’ve always been passionate about, and I believe it would have shaped my creativity in other ways.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

JAH : For me, design is about creating harmony between functionality and beauty. It’s the process of translating ideas, emotions, and needs into tangible spaces or objects that resonate with people. Design isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about telling a story and evoking a feeling that stays with you.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

JAH : I owe much of my success to the unwavering support of my family and mentors. My parents encouraged me to follow my passion, while my professional network provided guidance and opportunities. Clients who trusted my vision also played a critical role in helping me grow.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

JAH : A combination of curiosity, resilience, and dedication helped me reach where I am today. I never stopped learning, whether through observing nature, studying the work of others, or experimenting with new ideas. Staying open to feedback and refining my skills continually has also been key.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

JAH : Designers should present their work as a narrative, explaining the thought process, inspiration, and functionality behind each element. Visual aids like mood boards, sketches, and 3D renderings are essential, but connecting emotionally with the audience is what truly makes a presentation memorable.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

JAH : I’m currently excited about a villa redesign in the Maldives, focusing on blending luxury with serenity. In the future, you can expect more bold and innovative projects, including community-focused spaces that inspire and unite people.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

JAH : My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact through my designs, creating spaces that inspire generations. I want my work to be remembered for its emotional depth and ability to enhance the way people live and connect with their surroundings.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

JAH : People expect vision, innovation, and a high level of personalization from me. They seek designs that not only meet their needs but also surprise them with creativity and insight. Consistency in delivering excellence is a responsibility I take seriously.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

JAH : Design shapes the way we interact with the world, influencing our behavior, mood, and well-being. Thoughtful design can foster inclusivity, sustainability, and a sense of community, making our environments more harmonious and equitable for everyone.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

JAH : I’m particularly excited about creating a downtown district in a well know city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that aims to attract visitors with unique cultural and social experiences. This project is a chance to redefine urban living and bring a fresh perspective to the city.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

JAH : The projects that gave me the most satisfaction are those where the clients’ dreams and my vision aligned seamlessly. For instance, designing personalized dream homes where every detail reflects the client’s personality has been deeply fulfilling.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

JAH : I’d like to see more emphasis on sustainability and innovative materials that reduce environmental impact. Additionally, I hope the industry becomes more inclusive, allowing diverse voices to shape the future of design

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

JAH : Design is heading towards a more sustainable, technology-driven future. The integration of AI, smart materials, and immersive technologies like VR will redefine how we conceptualize and experience spaces. There’s also a growing focus on biophilic design and human-centric approaches.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

JAH : The timeline depends on the complexity of the project. A small-scale design can take a few weeks, while larger projects, like a complete villa or urban space, may require several months or even years to perfect.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

JAH : I always start by understanding the client’s needs, preferences, and aspirations. This is followed by extensive research and conceptual brainstorming, where I explore various ideas before narrowing down to a cohesive vision.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

JAH : My motto is: “Architecture is not a matter of understanding; it is a matter of feeling.” This philosophy reminds me to prioritize emotion and experience in all my designs.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

JAH : Design often sets the trends by introducing innovative ideas that others follow. However, trends can also influence design by reflecting cultural and technological shifts. It’s a dynamic relationship that feeds creativity.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

JAH : Technology plays a crucial role in streamlining processes, visualizing concepts, and enhancing precision. Tools like BIM software, 3D rendering programs, and AI applications help me push creative boundaries and bring ideas to life.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

JAH : I use industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Lumion for planning and rendering. For presentations, I rely on Adobe Suite, and my high-performance setup, including an RTX 4090 GPU, ensures smooth execution of complex designs.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

JAH : Color, materials, and ambiance define the mood and identity of a space. They interact to create harmony, evoke emotions, and influence how people experience the environment. Choosing the right combinations is a fundamental aspect of my process.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

JAH : I wish people would ask more about the emotional and psychological aspects of my designs. For instance, how does a particular element influence a person’s mood, or what story is being told through the space? It would also be fulfilling to discuss the sustainability and long-term impact of my projects.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

JAH : When I encounter a great design, I feel inspired and curious. I often wonder about the creative journey behind it—what challenges the designer faced, what inspired the choices, and how the design connects with its users. It’s also a moment to reflect on how it could push boundaries further.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

JAH : My ideal design partner is someone who complements my vision with a strong sense of collaboration, creativity, and adaptability. I firmly believe in co-design because it brings diverse perspectives to the table, leading to richer and more holistic outcomes. Great design often emerges from shared ideas.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

JAH : My mentors and the clients who trusted me early in my career had a profound impact on my growth as a designer. Additionally, peers who challenged my ideas and collaborated with me broadened my understanding of what’s possible in design.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

JAH : Books like "The Eyes of the Skin" by Juhani Pallasmaa and "Delirious New York" by Rem Koolhaas have deeply influenced my perspective on space and architecture. They challenged me to think beyond aesthetics and focus on the experiential and contextual aspects of design.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

JAH : I developed my skills through constant practice, experimentation, and learning from my mistakes. Attending workshops, staying updated with trends, and immersing myself in various cultures also enriched my perspective. Feedback from clients and mentors played a crucial role in sharpening my abilities.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

JAH : I would love to have met Leonardo da Vinci. His ability to seamlessly blend art, science, and engineering into his creations is awe-inspiring. Discussing his approach to creativity and innovation would be a dream come true.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

JAH : Recognition and awards are affirming and motivating, but they come with responsibility. Being in the spotlight can be challenging because expectations are always high. However, I see it as an opportunity to inspire others and push myself further.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

JAH : My favorite color is white because of its simplicity and versatility. My favorite place is the Mediterranean coastline, which offers endless inspiration. I enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, particularly dishes rich in olive oil and fresh ingredients. Spring is my favorite season for its renewal energy. As for brands, Zaha Hadid Architects stands out for its bold innovation.

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

JAH : Once, during a site visit, I mistakenly wore shoes that weren’t construction-friendly. By the end of the day, my pristine shoes were a different color entirely, much to everyone’s amusement. It became a lesson in always prioritizing practicality on-site!

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

JAH : A great day starts with a burst of creativity—sketching new ideas or solving a complex design challenge. Seeing progress in a project, whether it’s a successful meeting or a small milestone, keeps me motivated. I also draw inspiration from art, nature, and music.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

JAH : As a child, I was always curious about how things were built and loved creating models from whatever I could find. While I didn’t fully grasp it then, those early signs pointed to my future as a designer. Friends and family often remarked on my artistic inclinations.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

JAH : In a thousand years, I envision a world where technology and nature coexist harmoniously in design. Architecture might evolve into organic, self-sustaining forms, and spaces may adapt dynamically to human needs. The future holds limitless possibilities for creativity.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

JAH : I want my fans to know that every design I create is a reflection of the passion I pour into it. My journey has been one of constant learning, and I aim to inspire others to chase their dreams and create with purpose. Design, to me, is a celebration of life, and I hope my work resonates with that message.