May is a double appreciation month at Ashley Homestore. First, on May 1 it is internationally recognized to celebrate the Labor day, but there is also another special day we couldn’t just walk by, it is our honor to celebrate our interior designers on May 29. So, we decided to bring these two spectacular days together and shed a light on the accomplishments of our interior designers and other employees and see what they have achieved so far in the company. That’s why in May we are starting a #AshleySuccess marathon to celebrate our employees and their achievements. Our interior designer, Ani Sahakyan, was first interviewed to share her expertise and ways of fruitful cooperation with different clients.
1. How did you decide to become an interior designer? Why?
I didn’t choose this specialization. I entered the faculty accidentally but as years passed by, I grew to love interior design. If I could run back time wheel, I would definitely go for it.
2․ How many years have you been working in this field?
In 2014 I graduated from the university. Since 2015 I have been involved in many interior design related projects. It’s already been 3 years since I concentrated on my projects. And I joined the fantastic team of Ashley Homestore in 2019 and continue to collaborate with the best clients till today
3․ What inspires you most?
I think creative people get inspiration even from the smallest details in their everyday lifestyle. But recently I understood that the strongest power that motivates me is my clients’ satisfaction.
4․ What is interior design? Can you define it?
Interior design is a creation of functional, comfortable and appealing space.
5․ What do you need to know before starting a project? What draws your attention first?
I think, initially we need to understand the needs and preferences of a client and his family. Also, at the beginning I pay attention to its geographical position, what purpose the space serves and select relevant furniture, décor, wall colors.
6․ Are there any questions that always help you understand the client’s preferences well and if the answers help you while making a decision?
Of course there are, but most clients often change their minds. At the beginning of the project they have other ideas, through the process they change many times. That's why we designers need to help make the right choices. Of course, there are also clients who fully know what they want to get as a result.
7․ Aesthetics or functionality? Have they ever interfered with each other?
Definitely functional. The right functional design cannot be unaesthetic, nor can it interfere. It is at Ashley Homestore that the emphasis is always on comfort. Each piece of AshleyHomestore furniture stands out with its practicality.
8․Which style do people mainly prefer today?
As in life, people also have very different preferences in the interior. It is accepted that Armenians still prefer the strict classic, and they hardly deviate from it. However, in recent years, there has been a shift in the choice of furniture in Armenian society towards the simple, direct and light! These three adjectives describe the loft and American country styles best.
9․ How much does one project last for a 50 square meter apartment?
The dates are so different. From 1 month to 1 year. I have not had a project with more or less long terms.
10․ What is your favorite style?
All styles are unique in their own way. For my favorite, I will probably go for the loft style, as I really love to incorporate metal details into the interior. Loft-themed spaces have become pretty fashionable lately. Everything that is inspired by abandoned factory designs has a considerable impact on this style, e.g. stairs, raw materials, pipes, ventilation systems, etc.
12 ․ What do you always recommend to those who want to do their own interior design?
If you want your furniture to exactly match your space by size, of course, the help of an expert is advisable, since he or she will save you "time and money". For those who choose to do it on their own, I recommend that they listen to their hearts and choose pieces that express their individuality.