Interviews with Ali Moazzen
Designer profileDesigner Interview
18 May 2025
I've been passionate about art since childhood. Design became my way of expressing ideas, and over time, it naturally turned into my profession.
My studio is a creative space focused on meaningful and functional design. We mostly work on conceptual and purpose-driven projects.
For me, design is problem-solving through aesthetics and purpose.
I enjoy designing projects that connect with everyday life and human experience.
One of my favorite designs was a project that managed to be both functional and emotionally resonant.
My first professional design was the visual identity for a small brand.
I'm especially interested in natural materials and digital platforms.
I feel most creative at night or when I’m surrounded by nature.
I focus primarily on the concept and clarity of form.
A mix of excitement, curiosity, and calmness.
I feel proud and fulfilled, with a bit of nervous anticipation.
A successful design is one that works well and communicates meaning.
I first look at functionality, then emotional impact and aesthetics.
Designers have a responsibility to promote sustainability and cultural awareness.
Design is evolving toward multi-disciplinary approaches and environmental consciousness.
My last exhibition was in Tehran in 2024. I'm currently planning the next one.
My inspiration comes from nature, music, and human stories.
My style is minimalist, conceptual, and human-centered. I’m drawn to depth through simplicity.
I live in Iran. The cultural heritage here deeply influences my work, though resources can sometimes be limited.
I work with companies on a project basis. Ideas often emerge through collaborative dialogue.
Companies should choose designers based on understanding, communication, and their portfolio.
My process includes research, ideation, sketching, digital design, review, and execution.
My five favorite design items at home are: a custom-designed lamp, a unique chair, a ceramic vase, a wall poster, and a modern wall clock.
My day usually starts with planning, followed by a mix of design work, meetings, and creative research.
Be patient, stay curious, and invest in your personal growth.
Be patient, stay curious, and invest in your personal growth.
Every design must have a reason to exist.
Observation, creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills are essential.
I use Adobe Suite, sketchbooks, iPad, design books, and a curated archive of inspiration.
I manage my time through structured planning and prioritization.
It depends on the project—usually anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
The most frequent question I get is, “Where do your ideas come from?”
One of my most important experiences was collaborating with a cultural brand that shared my vision.
My clients include startups, cultural institutions, and creative brands.
I enjoy work that directly connects with people—because it creates meaning.
My next steps include expanding internationally and exploring more digital design fields.
I usually design independently but collaborate with others when needed.
Yes, I’m currently working on an interdisciplinary project combining light, sound, and physical form.
You can reach me via email, my website, or social media.
Just this: for me, design isn’t just a profession—it’s a way of thinking and living.
Grand Interview
17 June 2026 · Ersie Cafe and Restaurant
The greatest challenge was accommodating a contemporary café and restaurant program while preserving the historic identity of Ersie Mansion. Rather than imposing new functions, we adapted the building’s existing spaces according to their original logic, ensuring that every intervention felt like a natural continuation of its story.
The restoration was guided by original architectural traces uncovered beneath later additions. Through careful research and collaboration with traditional craftsmen, we reconstructed the sash windows and restored decorative elements while avoiding speculative interventions. Our goal was to revive the building’s authentic character.
Growing up in a family involved in the eyewear industry shaped our appreciation for observation and detail. This influenced our approach to Ersie, where we sought to create a journey of discovery, allowing visitors to experience layers of history and architecture throughout the building.
We believe heritage should be accessible to everyone. Therefore, while preserving the building’s historic value, we introduced features such as a lift and Braille menus to ensure a more inclusive experience for visitors with different needs.
The discovery of concealed Qajar-era architecture completely changed the project’s direction. Instead of restoring a Pahlavi-era house, we focused on revealing and reviving its earlier identity, while preserving traces of its historical transformations.
The century-old fig and pomegranate trees were treated as an essential part of the site’s heritage. The landscape design was organized around their preservation, reinforcing the connection between nature, memory, and architecture.
A key lesson from the project was maximizing the building’s existing capacities before introducing new elements. Traditional ventilation systems, historic infrastructure, and local craftsmanship were all integrated into the restoration process with minimal intervention.
The spatial organization of Ersie encourages visitors to engage with both the building’s history and its contemporary social life. By preserving historic circulation patterns and revealing restoration details, the project creates a cultural experience alongside hospitality.
Receiving the Bronze A’ Design Award validated our belief that preservation, adaptive reuse, and contemporary functionality can successfully coexist. It has strengthened our commitment to future heritage restoration projects.
We see Ersie as more than a café and restaurant; it is a living cultural space within a historic building. Our vision is for it to continue evolving through cultural events and community activities while always respecting its architectural authenticity and historical narrative
