Alena Gorskaya : Architect of Innovation
In the world of design and architecture, few names shine as brightly as Alena Gorskaya. A visionary in both residential and public space design, Alena’s journey from art school in Moscow to international recognition in Dubai is an inspiring tale of creativity, perseverance, and ambition. In this exclusive interview, she shares insights into her career, the challenges she’s overcome, and the innovations she continues to bring to the design world.
Alena Gorskaya, Can you tell us about your professional path and how you started working in your industry?
My mother is an architect, and she greatly influenced my career choice. From childhood, I was sure I would become a designer. I attended art school early on, learning to draw, build compositions, and combine colors. I later studied at the Faculty of Art History, Department of Art Design at Moscow University.
My university experience was intense, with one teacher, N.V. Melnikova, pushing me to constantly redo my work. She used to say, “You can do it again,” and pushed me to my limits. Although difficult, this rigorous training allowed me to see and design spaces as an architect. Today, our interiors blend ergonomics with smart use of space and color.
After graduation, I started out working for others but soon realized I wanted to start my own business. My first client came by chance, recommended in a wallpaper salon. That project was published in a magazine, which brought me recognition and eventually led to building my own team.
What trends or innovations are you most interested in in your industry?
To create exciting projects, my team and I closely follow trends in finishing materials. For example, when microcement emerged in public spaces, we quickly adapted it for residential use. It’s important to stay up-to-date with new technologies, like 3D printing.
In one of our recent projects, “Collector,” we needed to install a large concrete fireplace, but traditional methods weren’t feasible. Instead of giving up, we used 3D printing with glass concrete to create a lightweight version. We painted it to look like plaster, maintaining the aesthetic while making it more practical.
What are the most serious problems you have faced in your career and how have you overcome them?
I’ve encountered many challenges, from managing clients to expanding my business. One memorable experience was the “Collector” project, where we were tasked with creating a unique design. To achieve this, we had to craft custom tiles and innovate at every step.
However, the biggest challenge has been navigating the cultural and business differences when entering the Dubai market. Building a business in Dubai is vastly different from Russia, requiring me to learn about local culture, regulations, and form new partnerships. Thankfully, this experience has opened doors to international projects, and we’ve now designed both residential and public spaces in Dubai.
Alena Gorskaya, Can you share a book, podcast, or resource that has significantly influenced your professional path?
Books about Bauhaus architects and Constructivists, like Ginzburg and Melnikov, have had a profound influence on me. The work of modern architects like Zaha Hadid has also played a crucial role in shaping my creative vision.
In addition, I believe a designer should also be part psychologist, understanding clients on a deeper level. For that reason, I’ve found books like *The Art of Explanation* by Lee Lefever and *Happy Pocket Full of Money* by David Cameron Gikandi particularly insightful.
What do you consider the most significant achievement in your career at the moment?
One of my biggest achievements is creating a distinct, recognizable style within my team, which inspires young designers to evolve. I’ve also held lectures and master classes in over 20 cities across Russia, which has been incredibly fulfilling. Now, I’m starting to expand internationally, presenting my work at events in Dubai, contributing to the global design culture.
Alena Gorskaya , What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?
Don’t be afraid to experiment, and always seek new knowledge. Confidence is key when starting your career, but professional skills are what will allow you to stay ahead of the curve and meet the demands of even the most discerning clients.
Alena Gorskaya , How do you think science and technology will affect your industry in the near future?
Technology is already reshaping our industry. Artificial intelligence (AI) has begun to influence design, offering exciting opportunities for creativity. While some may fear AI, I believe it will enhance our work by providing new tools for innovation.
For example, in a recent office project in Dubai, we used AI to develop initial design concepts, which we then refined. It allowed us to explore a wide range of ideas quickly and efficiently.
Alena Gorskaya , What are your future goals for your business?
In the coming years, I plan to contribute significantly to the design culture in Dubai and secure a place alongside top local designers. We excel in designing public spaces, so we aim to increase the number of such projects while expanding our creative influence.
A Visionary in the Design World
Alena Gorskaya’s path is a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and perseverance. From her early beginnings in Moscow to making her mark on Dubai’s design scene, she continues to push boundaries, inspiring both young designers and seasoned professionals alike. Her journey is a reminder that with passion, vision, and a fearless approach to new challenges, anything is possible in the world of design.
Contacts:
– Instagram: [@a_gorskaya
– Email: info.gorskaya@gmail.com
– Website: agdesign.art
– WhatsApp: +971542378239
