Michel Ghostine

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Michel Ghostine ("MG") 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?

MG : I pursued my education in architecture at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik in Lebanon, earning a Master's degree in Architecture. Inspired by my father's work as an architect and landscaper, I developed a passion for design from a young age. Throughout my academic journey, I've continuously sought to expand my knowledge and skills, drawing inspiration from various art forms and cultural experiences to inform my design practice.

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

MG : Growing up in a family deeply rooted in architecture and design, I was exposed to the transformative power of creativity from an early age. Alongside this influence, my immersion in music, playing several instruments, has shaped my perspective on design.

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

MG : Becoming a designer was a choice I made willingly, driven by my inherent passion for creativity and innovation. Growing up in an environment where design was celebrated, I was inspired to pursue a career in the field. Rather than feeling forced, I embraced design as a natural extension of my interests and talents, motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact through thoughtful and purposeful design.

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

MG : I design various architectural projects, including residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. However, I'm particularly drawn to the idea of venturing into furniture design and developing my own collection. Creating tangible pieces that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal is an exciting prospect for me. With my background in architecture and design, I believe I can bring a fresh perspective to furniture design, infusing each piece with my unique vision and creativity.

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

MG : To become a design legend, remember this: following trends means you're already late. Instead, be bold, passionate, and, most importantly, human-centric in your approach. Aim for timeless design, focusing on creating works that transcend fleeting trends and resonate deeply with people's emotions and experiences.

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

MG : The difference between a good designer and a great one? Great designers constantly challenge their limits. Great designers are never satisfied

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

MG : "Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. That's the essence of evaluating good design—stripping away the unnecessary until only the essential remains.

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

MG : The value of good design lies in its timelessness. By investing in good design, individuals and organizations ensure that their creations withstand the test of time, remaining relevant and impactful for generations to come. Good design transcends fleeting trends, providing enduring value and enriching the lives of those who experience it.

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

MG : If time were no constraint, I would design a state-of-the-art recording studio for Pink Floyd, my favorite band. Their music, with its layers of sonic landscapes and architectural compositions, serves as a profound source of inspiration. I envision a space that not only captures the essence of their music but also reflects the architectural complexity and depth of their sonic journeys. Every aspect of the studio would be meticulously crafted to mirror the immersive experience of their music, creating a harmonious fusion of sound and space unlike any other. It would be a dream project, blending my passion for design with my admiration for their unparalleled musical legacy.

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

MG : Every project is a dream in its own right.

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

MG : The secret ingredient to my success in design? It's all about storytelling. Every design should have a compelling narrative behind it, shaping the lives and experiences of those who interact with it. Design is akin to writing a script, where every element plays a role in crafting a meaningful and immersive journey for people. By infusing each project with a rich narrative, I create designs that resonate on a deeper level and leave a lasting impact.

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

MG : Peter Zumthor and Dorte Mandrup are two design masters whose work I deeply admire and draw inspiration from. Zumthor's minimalist approach and focus on sensory experience resonate with me, while Mandrup's innovative and sustainable designs push the boundaries of architecture. Both exemplify excellence in their respective fields, and studying their work fuels my own creativity and passion for design.

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

MG : Three designs that deeply inspire me are Peter Zumthor's Thermal Baths, Dorte Mandrup's Whale Museum, and Exile Museum. Zumthor's Thermal Baths exude serenity and contemplation, showcasing his mastery of materiality and atmosphere. In contrast, Mandrup's Whale Museum and Exile Museum captivate with their innovative designs and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Each design tells a unique story, inviting visitors to engage with history, culture, and the natural world in immersive and unforgettable ways.

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

MG : The Saint Charbel Chapel in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is my favorite design project. It's a serene sanctuary symbolizing the journey from materiality to enlightenment. Wooden arches guide towards a stone altar, with a concrete floor grounding the space. Water features evoke renewal. Each element is meticulously chosen for its symbolism, inviting contemplation. Working on this project was deeply meaningful, blending design with spirituality to create a sanctuary of peace and inspiration.

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

MG : To become a better designer, immerse yourself in all forms of art for inspiration. Human experience should be at the core of your designs, driving meaningful connections and resonating with emotions. Avoid the temptation to follow trends; instead, focus on authenticity and innovation. By staying true to your vision and drawing inspiration from diverse sources, you can cultivate a unique design perspective that sets you apart and elevates your work to new heights.

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

MG : Design, to me, is the essence of creativity and functionality intertwined. It serves as the blueprint for how we interact with our environment, shaping our experiences and influencing our lives. Much like writing a script, design dictates the narrative of our daily existence, from the spaces we inhabit to the products we use. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about crafting meaningful experiences and finding beauty in functionality.

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

MG : My father and my family have been my biggest supporters, guiding and encouraging me every step of the way on my journey to success. Their unwavering belief in my abilities and their constant support have provided me with the strength and inspiration to pursue my passion for design and overcome challenges along the way. I am deeply grateful for their love, guidance, and encouragement, which have played a pivotal role in helping me reach the heights I have achieved in my career.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

MG : My curiosity

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

MG : Before reaching my current level in design, I encountered numerous obstacles along the way. One significant challenge was overcoming self-doubt and learning to trust my instincts. There were moments of uncertainty and setbacks, but I persevered by staying true to my vision and continuously honing my skills. Additionally, navigating the competitive landscape of the design industry posed its own challenges, requiring determination, resilience, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures. Through perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to growth, I was able to overcome these obstacles and emerge as a design master.

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

MG : Designers should present their work through storytelling accompanied by visually striking visuals. This combination effectively communicates the inspiration, concept, and emotional resonance of their designs to the audience.

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

MG : Our next project? Launching our own furniture collection, adding another layer to our existing architecture, landscape, and interior design offerings. Stay tuned for more!

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

MG : To create timeless projects that evoke societal change.

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

MG : Expectations for an esteemed designer like myself? Perhaps, making their dream home a reality.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

MG : Design, enriched with a message, not only shapes daily lives but also communicates values, aspirations, and societal change. By weaving narratives into the fabric of our environments, design has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and foster connections, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and meaningful society.

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

MG : I'm currently involved in an intriguing project in Lebanon that involves restoring a 200-year-old house, which was unfortunately demolished during the war. The unique challenge of this project lies in preserving the historical integrity of the original structure while designing a new house within its old walls. It's a fascinating blend of restoration and innovation, where we're tasked with honoring the heritage of the past while creating a modern and functional living space for the present. I'm excited to see how this project unfolds and how we can breathe new life into this historic site.

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

MG : Every project is a unique narrative, offering distinct experiences and forms of satisfaction. Each brings its own sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.

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

MG : In the coming years, I'd like to see more young designers exploring innovative approaches and pushing the boundaries of traditional design practices.

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

MG : The design field is continually evolving, with advancements in technology, sustainability, and user-centric approaches shaping its trajectory. As we move forward, I anticipate a greater emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, holistic design solutions, and a renewed focus on addressing global challenges through design innovation.

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

MG : Finalizing a design project varies, but the conceptual phase, crucial for me, typically takes around 1 month. Execution timelines vary depending on the project's complexity and scope.

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

MG : When starting a new design project, extensive research and thorough questioning are my go-to methods for gaining a deep understanding of the client's goals and preferences.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

MG : Antoine de Saint-Exupéry - "Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away

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

MG : Either way, i don't like the word trend, because it conflicts with my belief that design should be timeless

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

MG : Technology plays a crucial role in expediting the design process, making it more efficient and precise.

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

MG : AutoCad, ArchicCad, SketchUp, Lumion, Revit, Photoshop and more.

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

MG : Color, materials, and ambient elements play pivotal roles in design, contributing to the overall aesthetic, functionality, and mood of a space. They have the power to evoke emotions, convey messages, and create immersive experiences for users.

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

MG : I wish people would ask more about the "why" behind my designs. Every architectural gesture or space should have a purpose and meaning behind it.

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

MG : It makes me very happy. As much as appreciate good design, I despise commercial bad design

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

MG : My ideal design partner is someone who shares my values and brings complementary skills to the table. I strongly believe in co-design, and in my firm, I work alongside two partners, each with their specialty. Our shared values and collaborative approach enable us to create exceptional projects together.

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

MG : The most influential individuals on my design journey have been my father, whose lifelong immersion in architecture inspired me, and notable architects like Alphonse Kai and Dr. Victor Takchi, with whom I've had memorable encounters.

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

MG : Yes is More - Bjarke Ingels Hot to Cold- Bjarke Ingels

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

MG : My journey to becoming a master designer was shaped by a multitude of influences, including my multicultural background growing up in Beirut. Drawing inspiration from diverse art forms such as cinema, music, paintings, and literature, I honed my skills and developed a unique design approach.

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

MG : If I could transcend time and space, I would relish the opportunity to meet and converse with two iconic figures: Mies van der Rohe, the legendary architect whose minimalist designs have left an indelible mark on architectural history, and Jimi Hendrix, the groundbreaking musician whose innovative approach to guitar playing revolutionized rock music.

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

MG : Oh, you know, fame is just another burden I graciously bear along with my genius. It's tough being adored by the masses, but someone has to do it, right? Just kidding I don't really care about that part, I am more into the craft.

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

MG : Black, Beirut, Japanese food, Fall, my guitar and chess board, Rolex

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

MG : During a design presentation to a client, I accidentally projected the wrong file, revealing my rough sketches and doodles instead of the polished design concepts. It turned out to be a surprisingly effective icebreaker, as we all shared a good laugh before diving into the actual presentation.

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

MG : Absolutely, witnessing the tangible manifestation of my designs as they progress through various project stages is incredibly fulfilling. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact creativity can have on the world, and it motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in my work.

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

MG : Certainly, growing up in an environment surrounded by architecture and design certainly influenced my interests from a young age. While it wasn't necessarily obvious that I would become a great designer, my early exposure to creativity and artistic expression set the foundation for my journey in the field.

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

MG : A great flood, our projects will all go down the drain

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

MG : If you ever have any question about design, please do not hesitate to ask someone else first. All joking aside, we do our work very passionately, we are always striving to be better and to make a big societal change.