For Meshary AlNassar, the concepts of function and flow drive every aspect of design at his eponymous design studio. Armed with a BFA in Interior Design from the American University in Dubai, the CIDA-Accredited designer is making waves with his imaginative vision that seamlessly blends soft Scandinavian design with a minimal, oriental twist.
He is powered by his passion for storytelling, and strives to constantly ensure that Studio Meshary AlNassar delivers designs that speak to their client’s desires and aspirations. He believes that the finished space should always complement and encapsulate the client’s lifestyle and day-to-day needs, right from the very start to the end of the day. Every aspect of the design process from concept to execution is very relatable, customized, and carefully curated. And Meshary does all of this with so much ease, making the entire process look as effortless as possible.
Meshary’s penchant for design stems from his childhood, he fondly recounts how he used to watch so many design makeover shows as a kid, “I noticed the heavy impact design has on people’s day to day life, and since then I was inspired to do the same.” Pursuing the field career-wise was only a natural progression. He continues, “My passion and drive were always wanting to create a setting or experience within a space for people. It began by rearranging my parent’s living room over and over, and I knew I wanted more to do with spatial layouts and design from a young age.”
Upon taking a look at the Studio Meshary AlNassar’s website, you will find that each and every project executed by his team is portrayed with the same storytelling narrative in mind. You feel his personality shine in each designated project description, where he fondly describes working with clients as an inspiring, collaborative process. Whether he is reinventing once forgotten basements in a residential home into soothing abodes, to abstracting the design of traditional Lebanese Homes for a full-scale family home, Meshary seeks distinction in every project that he and his team take on.
In recent years, we’ve been seeing a lot of über-modern design trends sweeping the local residential and commercial design scene, yet Meshary believes in finding inspiration in the elements of our region. He strongly considers that preserving our region’s design and cultural history is more relevant today than ever before, utilizing methods and techniques that are centuries old. The end result? A timeless space, honoring tradition yet boldly telling today’s story.
Meshary describes his process to the bazaar team, “I look towards altering the traditional approach of spatial design; a rigidity that has been ingrained over decades, and to improving the way that people live. Deriving inspiration from the culture and the tradition of the region, and adding a contemporary flavor and twist to the space, is what I aim to achieve with my work.”
And while we know that no business exists without its challenges, Meshary acknowledges the importance of having the right team in place to make any business a success. “When the studio started, I had no management experience, all I had was design knowledge and passion. Moving forward I understood that I also needed to understand how to manage and run a business. With the help of business developers and professionals, I managed to understand how to create a system that allows me to design and create, yet still manage to run the business.”
He fondly credits the success of the studio to his team. A tight-knit unit, the Studio today is home to a team of qualified and certified architects, and creative minds with substantial knowledge of traditions, culture, and the region’s history and values. All of this ensures that Meshary is able to lead these invaluable talents into the creation of truly personalized and masterfully designed spaces.
Today, Meshary is artfully leading projects in Kuwait and the region. And this designer doesn’t take a moment to relax. “As designers, we are constantly on the roll working on things and I think it’s also a ‘business owner’ thing. When you own a business, there are no dedicated times for work, it’s around the clock and I truly don’t mind, as it’s my passion”.
We can’t wait to see what he does next! Until then, let’s play a game of Truth or Dare with the mind behind the design.
TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE
How would your mother describe you in one word?
Rebellious.
How would you describe your mother in one word?
Tough.
What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?
“What is your design aesthetic?”
What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Get on a flight from Bangalore, India to Doha, Qatar on the 31st of December.
What is your theme song?
Oh, so many! One of them would be اغدآ القاك by Oum Kolthoum.
What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?
The Arabic word of معتق which translates to ‘aged’ or ‘worn out’.
Where would you like to live?
In a farmhouse in Puglia. Surrounded by olive trees and a beautiful masonry cladded building.
What is your dream retirement location?
Puglia, Italy if I’m being realistic, and anywhere on the coast of Mexico if I’m being ambitious.
What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?
“Your home should be able to tell your story”- Nate Berkus.
Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life?
Not only because I love dogs, but definitely because of their deep loyalty, hard work to get that reward, and playfulness. And slightly aggressive when needed.
Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it?
The curiosity towards places, and surroundings. As a child, I had all the time in my day to explore what’s in the garden, and behind the fences of that garden. I always wanted to explore my surroundings and connect with places and create a spatial layout in my mind of what my surroundings are. I miss that.
If you could change your name, what would you change it to?
Although my parents almost named me ‘Jarrah’, yet I actually love my name so much. I wouldn’t change it for anything else!
How would you describe your handshake, in one word?
Curious.
What is the toughest part of your character?
As strict as I could be, I get a bit too emotionally involved in situations where I shouldn’t and just like any other human being, I try to find that balance between heart and mind.
Who is your favorite historical figure?
The ancient roman statue of ‘Laocoön and His Sons’.
What in the world do you least desire?
Pollution. I desire less pollution, less littering, and contamination of the environment.
What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place?
The world could use more acceptance. Acceptance of the new, the different, and the unknown. Cultures and religions accept each other and coexist in harmony. As well as humans accepting their differences and embracing one another in peace.
Why do you think most people who do, like you?
Spontaneity.
Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”
Happiness is a calm state of mind, watching the sunset.
Visit mesharyalnassar.com and follow @StudioMesharyAlNassar on Instagram.
