Jassim AlNashmi

Architect and Furniture Designer | Kuwait

Jassim AlNashmi holds degrees in Architecture and Urban Design from ETH Zürich, Iowa State University and London’s AA, and has exhibited artwork in the USA, UK, Brazil, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, at galleries like Qatar Museums and Future Perfect NY. His works are published on platforms like Dezeen, Design Boom, Wallpaper, Design Milk, Herskhazeen, and Identity. He has designed projects in the US, Kuwait and Qatar for residential, commercial and governmental clients. AlNashmi now runs “Manmade Studio” which operates at the intersection of art and architecture, which creates moments through bespoke designs in which he collaborates with local/Arab designers and craftsmen. The studio takes from the designers’ globalized experience to imbue the contested image of what is Arab, and its focus is on highlighting the contemporary Arab identity through design.

The Interview

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?
The pursuit of beauty.

How does your cultural or regional context influence your design work?
My sole interest now is to develop Arab design in this contemporary world.

What is your design philosophy or approach to creative problem-solving?
Finding beauty in pragmatism and cultural significance.

Describe a project you're most proud of and why it's meaningful to you.
Tabassar, Sabah Retrospective.

Who are your design influences or mentors, and how have they shaped your work?
Peter Zumthor, Olson Kundig, George Nakashima.

What role do you think design plays in shaping communities and culture in the MENASA region?
It's essential, it can be pragmatic, political, environmental, financial and more.

How do you stay inspired and continue to evolve your creative practice?
The world is dull and needs a designers touch.

What are the biggest challenges facing designers in the MENASA region today?
Trust.