Alena, as a designer working on international projects, where do you find inspiration, and how do you keep your creativity alive?
I believe that inspiration is everywhere if you know how to notice it. Travel, art, architecture, nature—all of these influence our perception of the world and, ultimately, design. Throughout my career, I have visited over 50 countries, and each of them has left a lasting impression on my creative vision. I regularly attend international exhibitions, visit museums, participate in online seminars, follow design trends, read industry publications, and listen to podcasts. All of this helps me stay at the forefront of global trends and continuously evolve as a designer.
However, design is not just for professionals. Everyone interacts with architecture, interiors, and objects daily—these elements shape our mood and how we perceive space. That is why I encourage people not only to study art and design but to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of world-class exhibitions and museums, as they offer a deeper understanding of aesthetics and influence how we experience our surroundings.
Which exhibitions and design events are must-visits in 2025?
Every year, numerous events provide insight into global trends and allow us to experience aesthetics on a deeper level. In 2025, I highly recommend:
- Salone del Mobile (Milan, April) – The world’s leading furniture and interior design exhibition, where future trends are set.
- Venice Architecture Biennale (Venice, May – November) – A major architectural biennale showcasing groundbreaking urban concepts.
- Maison&Objet (Paris, January & September) – A key event for those passionate about interior decor and contemporary design.
- Downtown Design Dubai (November) – A prestigious platform presenting top designers and architects from the Middle East and beyond.
- High Point Market (USA, April & October) – The largest furniture industry event in the world, shaping global interior trends.
But inspiration is not just about product design—it can also be found in art. Contemporary art exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to explore new forms, unexpected textures, and conceptual ideas that often translate into interior spaces.
Which contemporary art exhibitions inspire you the most?
There are several events that leave a profound impact and shape the future of art:
- Art Basel (Basel, Hong Kong, Miami Beach) – The most renowned international art fair, setting the tone for contemporary art.
- Frieze Art Fair (London, New York, Los Angeles, Seoul) – A major event bringing together galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts.
- The Armory Show (New York, September) – One of America’s top art fairs, featuring bold and cutting-edge artistic concepts.
- Biennale de Lyon (Lyon, September – December) – A leading European biennale showcasing avant-garde artists and designers.
Contemporary art allows us to see composition, textures, and light differently, inspiring even those who are not directly involved in design.
Which museums around the world inspire you the most?
Museums are places of power, where we can not only admire art history but also understand how it influences modern interior solutions. Some of the must-visit museums include:
- The Louvre (Paris, France) – A global treasure trove of art and history.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, USA) – A stunning collection spanning classic and contemporary art.
- Musée d’Orsay (Paris, France) – The best place to immerse yourself in Impressionism.
- The Guggenheim (New York, USA & Bilbao, Spain) – A fusion of futuristic architecture and contemporary art collections.
- Tate Modern (London, UK) – One of the leading modern art museums, showcasing some of the most unconventional artistic expressions.
- The National Museum of Qatar (Doha, Qatar) – A symbol of modern architecture that is an art piece in itself.
Why is art and design important even for people who are not in the industry?
We live in an era where our surroundings shape our perception of life. We feel different in a stylish restaurant, a cozy home, or a chaotic office—all of this is the result of designers and architects crafting those experiences. Design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about emotions, mood, and atmosphere, and we all encounter it daily.
I believe that the more we surround ourselves with art and design, the higher our expectations for comfort and quality of life become. That is why even those who are not involved in architecture or interior design should pay attention to the spaces they inhabit.
How can an ordinary person develop their visual taste?
The most important thing is to observe. Notice how color influences the perception of a room, how lighting creates an atmosphere, and how materials evoke a sense of comfort. Explore—travel, visit exhibitions, compare styles. Experiment—try new design ideas in your own space, change details, and see how they affect your mood.
I firmly believe that design is not just about aesthetics; it is a tool that changes how we perceive life. And the more we immerse ourselves in the world of art and architecture, the better we understand the harmony of the spaces around us.
Thank you, Alena! Your perspective on design and art as a way to transform life is truly inspiring.
Thank you! I hope this conversation encourages people to see more beauty in the details and find inspiration in unexpected places.
Alena Bulataya Design Buro
Email: alena.bulataya.design@gmail.com / alena@bulataya.com
Phone: +971526109091 / +16452216400 / +375445110056
Website: www.bulataya.com
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