MARINA KHALIL

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer MARINA KHALIL ("MK") 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?

MK : I have a master's degree in architectural design and have studied the business of design at the Berlin Management Institute. I also completed project management at the London Business School and have a background in finance. This diverse education helps me approach design projects with both creativity and strategic insight.

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

MK : I have always been passionate about design. Since I was a kid, I was attracted to drawing. My father was also an interior designer, and his passion was transmitted to me. I was always fascinated by his work, but each of us took a different path in design, allowing me to create my own identity. What made me believe more in myself was when a little child compared me to a fairy who could transform any ugly space into something wonderful and outstanding.

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

MK : I chose to become a designer while I was still in school. I was very determined, and whenever consultants asked me about my career choice, I always gave the same answer.

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

MK : I specialize in designing hospitality projects, including restaurants and hotels. I love creating inviting and memorable spaces for guests. In the future, I wish to design more innovative and sustainable hospitality environments that enhance the overall guest experience.

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

MK : "Legend" is an exaggerated word. Design is something you learn as you go. Designers should be driven by passion, and once they embrace that passion, they will keep evolving and progressing.

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

MK : A great designer is distinguished by their ability to lead, work under pressure, and always support their team members. It's not just about individual talent but also about fostering a collaborative and resilient team environment.

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

MK : A good design is first and foremost about how well it works and its functionality. Once these fundamentals are in place, the creative touch is what elevates the design, making it truly outstanding. I evaluate good design based on its effectiveness in solving a problem and its aesthetic appeal.

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

MK : Good design adds immense value by enhancing user experience, fostering brand recognition, driving innovation, and promoting sustainability. Investing in good design isn't just about aesthetics; it's an investment in creating products and experiences that resonate with users, differentiate brands, and drive long-term success.

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

MK : I would love to design a museum, but it's so rare and exclusive.

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

MK : My dream is to create my own boutique hotel and have my own hosting space. Since I love people and enjoy hosting, it would be great to establish MK Boutique Hotels.

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

MK : My secret ingredient is love what you do and do it with passion

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

MK : I love Kelly Westler / Patricia Urquiola… these women are inspirational on a global level

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

MK : I love Philippe Starck design because he is bold creative, and he dares to be different

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

MK : A design is great when it works well and its functional creative out of the box

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

MK : You keep moving forward and work on yourself it’s a continuous job

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

MK : A dermatologist because I love skin care and all the cream products

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

MK : Design is a way of thinking and how you see things from different perspective

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

MK : My family first of all and then my husband he is amazing and because of him I was able to excel specially as a mother he was taking care of our son and we were splitting tasks, despite his heavy schedule in work he always managed to empower me

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

MK : Persistence and never wanting to give up

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

MK : In many countries where I've worked, women aren't empowered, and access to information is limited

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

MK : To effectively convey information to contractors and designers, drawings should be properly structured and exhibit a certain level of clarity and explicitness.

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

MK : My next design project is a hotel in Romania Bucharest

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

MK : My ultimate goal is to create my own brand in boutique hotels, focusing on a small niche.

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

MK : They expect you to be always creative and always on top of things

DL: How does design help create a better society?

MK : Design helps create a better society by enhancing the way of living for others. In the retail sector, it creates comfortable setups and pleasant experiences for customers. In homes, it fosters more relaxing environments, allowing individuals to function better.

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

MK : Each project requires a certain level of concentration and attention to detail, but the projects that excite me the most are in the F&B sector

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

MK : F&B design projects have given me the most satisfaction because they serve the public and can attract many customers. By enhancing and elevating the dining experience, each project creates a unique setup and atmosphere.

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

MK : I would like to see the design industry adapt to the rise of AI in the coming years. If we use AI in the right way, it can help facilitate our work. Looking back, designers started with paper and pen, and now we use software that speeds up our work. This evolution has greatly benefited the industry, and AI can be the next step in this progression.

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

MK : The design field is headed towards augmented reality, where we will experience a blend of the physical and virtual worlds, essentially living a double life. This integration will revolutionize how we interact with our environment and perceive reality.

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

MK : The time it takes to finalize a design project depends on the project's scale, client requirements, and any changes. Typically, it takes around two months to complete a full design package, including back-and-forth communication.

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

MK : When starting a new design project, I begin by analyzing the project and assessing the list of requirements. Then, I start brainstorming around the layout. Sometimes, inspiration comes from small details.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

MK : My life motto as a designer is: "Design is not just how it looks; it's how it works."

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

MK : Design and trends have a symbiotic relationship, influencing each other in a continuous cycle. Designers often set trends by introducing innovative concepts, materials, and aesthetics. However, trends also emerge from societal, cultural, and technological changes. Ultimately, it's a dynamic interplay where design both sets and responds to trends.

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

MK : Technology plays a crucial role in the design process, enabling designers to explore ideas, visualize concepts, and communicate with clients and collaborators more efficiently. From computer-aided design (CAD) software for drafting and modeling to virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools for immersive experiences, technology provides designers with a wide range of capabilities to bring their ideas to life. Additionally, advancements in technology have facilitated rapid prototyping, allowing designers to iterate and test their designs more quickly. Overall, technology enhances creativity, productivity, and collaboration in the design field.

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

MK : In our work, we primarily utilize Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. These include popular BIM platforms like Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD, and Bentley MicroStation. BIM software enables us to create intelligent 3D models that incorporate architectural, structural, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) elements, facilitating coordination and collaboration among project stakeholders. Additionally, we leverage other design software for tasks such as 3D modeling, rendering, and visualization, including programs like Autodesk AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite. Our equipment typically includes high-performance computers or workstations capable of running demanding design software efficiently.

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

MK : Color, materials, and ambient elements work together to create a cohesive and harmonious design that not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also functions effectively and enhances the overall experience of the space.

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

MK : I wish people would ask me about the process and the challenges I encountered during the design journey. Understanding the journey behind the final outcome can provide deeper insights into the thought process, creativity, and problem-solving skills involved in bringing a design to life.

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

MK : When I encounter a new great design or product, I immediately think about the thoughtful process that went into its creation. I appreciate the creativity, innovation, and attention to detail that contributed to its success.

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

MK : Having an ideal design partner who shares similar values, creativity, and vision is essential, and I do believe in the power of co-design. My ideal partner would be someone like my friend Paula Chahine, an artist and designer whom I deeply value. Our shared understanding, mutual respect, and complementary skills would make for a dynamic collaboration, resulting in innovative and impactful design outcomes.

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

MK : The people who have had the most influence on my design are undoubtedly my team. I consider them as family, and our collaborative interactions are invaluable. We constantly exchange ideas, share insights, and challenge each other, ultimately leading to richer and more innovative design solutions.

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

MK : While I haven't had much time for reading lately due to the hectic nature of life, one book that has had a significant impact on my design perspective is "Travel by Design" by Assouline. Its exploration of how travel inspires and influences design resonates deeply with me, sparking creativity and opening new avenues of thought in my approach to design.

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

MK : I believe that mastering design is a continuous journey of learning and growth. Over time, I have honed my skills through hands-on experience, experimentation, and a commitment to constantly expanding my knowledge. Developing what some might call the "designer's eye" comes with practice and exposure to various design principles and contexts. It's about cultivating a keen sense of observation, attention to detail, and the ability to discern quality and excellence in design. This ongoing process of refinement enables me to continually improve and evolve as a master designer.

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

MK : Zaha Hadid's pioneering work in architecture and design continues to inspire countless individuals, including myself. While it's unfortunate that she's no longer with us, I would have loved the opportunity to meet, talk, and discuss ideas with her. Her groundbreaking designs, innovative approaches, and fearless creativity have left an indelible mark on the design world, and I would have cherished the chance to learn from her insights and experiences.

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

MK : I feel grateful and honored to receive awards and recognition for my work. It's validating to see that my efforts are appreciated and acknowledged by others in the field. However, I don't let fame or accolades change who I am as a person. I remain grounded and humble, just as my mother taught me. Despite any recognition, I believe in staying true to myself and maintaining a down-to-earth attitude. Ultimately, it's the passion for design and the satisfaction of creating meaningful experiences that drive me, rather than any external validation.

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

MK : My favorite colors are olive green and black. Black, in particular, resonates with me because it represents the absence of color. When I wear it, I feel neutral and more receptive to my surroundings. I love the spring season, and pasta is my favorite food!

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

MK : During a site visit, I made the mistake of wearing the wrong shoes. As I walked across the construction site, my shoe got stuck in the freshly poured concrete! I had to laugh at the situation as I found myself standing there with one shoe stuck in the concrete. Needless to say, I ended up leaving the site minus one shoe that day!

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

MK : Starting my day with meditation helps me clear my mind and set a positive tone for the day ahead. It allows me to release any negativity and create space for inspiration and creativity to flow. Additionally, I find motivation in setting goals and envisioning the impact of my designs on the world around me. Knowing that I have the opportunity to create something meaningful and contribute to enhancing people's experiences is what drives me as a designer.

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

MK : It was never obvious to me or anyone else that I would become a great designer when I was a child. My focus was always on the present, striving to improve and grow into a better version of myself each day. The path to becoming a designer unfolded gradually as I pursued my interests and discovered my passion for creativity and problem-solving.

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

MK : Looking a thousand years into the future, the possibilities are endless and perhaps even unimaginable. With the rapid pace of technological advancements and the exploration of space, it's not far-fetched to envision human colonization on other planets. Who knows, maybe by then, I'll be living on another planet, exploring new frontiers as a designer!

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

MK : To all my fans, I want you to know that beyond my passion for design, I also have other interests that bring me joy and fulfillment. I love practicing pilates to stay balanced and healthy, and I have a deep appreciation for exploring new cultures and experiences. Additionally, I'm a proud owner of a Ducati Scrambler, which I adore riding whenever I get the chance. Thank you for your support and enthusiasm for my work—it means the world to me!