Hailing from Egypt, FORM (Instagram) is an innovative hub that blurs the lines of a traditional interior and product design studio. At its essence, FORM delves into the interplay between individuals and their environments, aiming to create spaces that go beyond mere utility. With a dedication to innovation, they craft environments that not only serve practical purposes, but also foster emotional resonance and elevate the human experience. By seamlessly merging form and function, the studio breaks free from conventional design constraints, opening doors to immersive and deep interactions within every curated space.
What’s your earliest memory of art and design?
My earliest memory of art and design would have to be going with my dad to his site visits while I was still a child. I also used to hang out in his office a lot with his architects and designers where I drew with them; it used to be my favourite hangout spot.
What inspired the founding of FORM, and how has its philosophy evolved since its inception?
The inspiration behind the inception of FORM emerged from my return to Cairo after completing my BA in Interior Design in London. Recognizing market gaps while designing interiors, I identified a need for items that elevate living spaces.
At FORM, our philosophy centres on the belief that exceptional design should not only enhance functionality, but also captivate aesthetically. Initially conceived to explore the untapped potential of Egyptian materials in daily use, FORM has evolved to challenge repetitive design norms. Our aim is to introduce forms and materials that break away from convention, offering fresh perspectives to the design landscape.
Can you describe the process of integrating concept, function, and design to create transformative experiences within spaces?
The process of creating transformative experiences within spaces begins with drawing inspiration from themes or objects around me. We start by initial sketches that capture the essence of the concept, which is then refined through digital modelling. Prototyping plays a crucial role in the development phase, allowing for experimentation and adjustments to ensure the final product aligns with both the design intent and functionality requirements. This iterative approach ensures that each element within the space contributes to a cohesive and impactful experience for users.
Can you discuss your latest collection, Cosmic Candy, and the idea behind it?
The Cosmic Candy collection explores elements of the colour, shape, and form of cosmology. It is inspired by the structures and dynamics of cosmic energy, space, and time. Cosmic energy is thought to be a source that stimulates all forms of life in the universe. The collection aims to form conversations between the present and the future, the physical and the mental, the familiar and the uncommon.
How do you approach selecting the materials in your design projects, and what criteria are considered when making these choices?
Material selection is a thoughtful process that aligns with our creative vision and the functionality of each piece. While our current collections predominantly feature glass and marble, our commitment to innovation leads us to continually explore new mediums and materials such as wood.
For our latest collection, we integrated blown glass, a choice that complemented our design objectives compared to the glass panels utilised in previous collections. Each material is chosen based on its unique properties and how it enhances the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the piece.
In what ways does FORM prioritise both practical needs and emotional connections when designing environments?
FORM places a strong emphasis on balancing practical needs with emotional connections in our design approach. By employing minimal yet conceptually rich approaches to both product and spatial design, we aim to cultivate a relationship between the consumer and the product. This means considering not only the functional aspects of our designs, but also their ability to evoke emotional responses and create memorable experiences within the environment.
What inspired your aesthetic focus on mirrors and reflections?
Mirrors offer a captivating opportunity to play with light, space, and perception, creating dynamic and ever-changing visual experiences within a space. The beauty lies in the inherent diversity of mirrors; no two mirrors are identical. Each mirror possesses its own distinct characteristics, whether it be shape, size, or reflective properties. This inherent variability allows us to craft designs that are not only functional, but also imbued with a sense of personality and individuality, reflecting the uniqueness of each piece and the spaces they inhabit.
How do you stay ahead of design trends while maintaining a commitment to timeless and enduring design principles?
A functional and simple object is always going to be timeless. Staying ahead of design trends while upholding timeless principles is a delicate balance that we maintain by prioritising functionality and simplicity in our designs. We offer colour options to cater to individual preferences, allowing our customers to customise their pieces and infuse them with a sense of personal identity.
What are some of the main challenges you encounter in integrating your chosen materials into your designs?
One of the primary challenges we face in integrating our materials into our designs is their fragility. Maintaining the integrity of delicate materials requires careful handling and meticulous attention to detail throughout the design and production process.
If you could collaborate with any artist or designer; dead or alive, who would it be and why?
If given the opportunity, I would choose to collaborate with James Turrell, renowned for his transformative use of light and colour in shaping spatial experiences. Turrell’s mastery in creating sensorial journeys through the manipulation of light resonates deeply with our ethos of crafting immersive and evocative environments.
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