Amira has recently joined the KLD team after graduating with a firsts class honours in Interior Architecture from Griffith College. A Syrian-native, Amira’s passion for her homeland pervades her detailed and powerful designs.
The deeply humanistic nature of design is something Amira was struck by early on in her career, and it is one of the main reasons she chose to change her area of study from architecture to interior design. A deep consideration for human behaviours, characteristics and the resulting ability to create spaces with meaning is what ultimately ignited Amira’s passion for the business of interior design. We are delighted to have her on board team KLD and look forward to having her passionate, creative approach on some of our exciting upcoming projects.
1. What could you not live without?
My cat Za’atar (it means thyme in English but you can also just call him Blue).
2. Where would be your ideal weekend break?
Walking around old Damascus, having an amazing lunch at Naranj restaurant and then getting all the necessary herbs, sweets, antiques and organic natural soaps from the old market.
3. Who would you turn to in a time of need?
My family and husband, Sufian.
4. Where’s your favourite place to eat in Dublin?
Zakura because I love Sushi. However, I also like Angelina’s and Sophie’s for the atmosphere, interiors and pizza!
5. What do you love about interior design?
I started my education by enrolling in architecture school. However midway through I got an opportunity to work with an amazing interior designer, and that experience was what opened my eyes to this whole different world and then I realised that I loved the interior aspect far more than the architectural one. I enjoy getting into people’s minds, studying their behaviour and customising a design that reflects each client’s personality. Architecture was more about buildings but a structure would never be completed without the perfect personalised interior to go with it.
6. Your favourite gadget or app?
I spend a lot of time on Instagram which is kind of bad. My excuse would be catching up with friends and family and finding inspiration and discovering new trends.
7. What’s on your bucket list?
To rebuild my injured country. I am fortunate to work in a field that can have a great impact on future development. Healing people starts with healing their surroundings.
8. How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Ambitious, hardworking and creative.
9. What’s your favourite style of interiors?
I have always loved Parisian interiors. I also have a thing for Islamic architecture and all of its intricate detailing.
10. What’s your stress reliever?
Cuddly movie nights with the hubby and kitty – sleep works as well!
11. Who would you happily be stranded on a desert island with?
Genie of the Lamp.
12. How would you describe your family?
Divided by science and art. Brought together by love and cats.
13. What would your ideal day out in Dublin consist of?
A long hike up the mountains.
14. What would be the last meal you’d want to eat?
Mulukhiyah cooked by my mom. (Jute Mallow or Jew’s Mallow in English)
15. Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Istanbul! It has history, modern shopping areas, the beach and great weather. Nothing can beat a week spent in there.
16. Favourite hotel?
I haven’t been there yet but Le Roch Hotel in Paris designed by the true Parisian Sarah Lavoine is one of my favourites.
17. Who is your favourite interior designer?
Designers* India Mahdavi, Joseph Dirand, Patrick Lewis and Studio KO.
18. What’s in your handbag?
Everything you can think of. You never know when you might need 3 different lipsticks or rose water face mist!
19. What’s your favourite movie?
The Grand Budapest Hotel, and all other movies directed by Wes Anderson.
20. What’s on your to-do list for 2017?
To be a part of the amazing team at KLD and go back home for a visit.