Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Vasily Shestopalov And Luiza Kapreliants Void Design Studio. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Vasily Shestopalov and Luiza Kapreliants, so happy to have you on the platform with us today and excited to chat about your lessons and insights. Our ability to make good decisions can massively impact our lives, careers and relationships and so it would be very helpful to hear about how you built your decision-making skills.
In architecture and construction, decision-making is a constant and critical part of the process. We oversee the entire project, coordinating with various consultants and stakeholders, which demands a high level of responsibility and accountability for the project’s outcome. Each project presents unique challenges, requiring us to strike a balance between creativity and practical constraints like budget, deadlines, and regulations. Clear communication and teamwork are essential—ensuring that everyone involved is aligned and contributing to well-informed decisions.
Ultimately, we prioritize what’s best for the project because we’re deeply committed to making it successful, both creatively and practically. By remaining flexible and open to feedback, we ensure that our decisions result in thoughtful, well-executed designs that meet the needs of both our clients and our own high standards.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
At VOID we specialize in designing innovative, functional, and beautiful residential spaces with a focus on addressing Los Angeles’ urgent need for affordable housing. We champion Missing Middle housing—an essential solution that bridges the gap between single-family homes and large apartment complexes. This type of housing includes duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, and courtyard clusters, allowing for organic growth within the city while preserving its character. We’re passionate about showing that affordable housing can be both aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective to build.
Los Angeles faces some of the worst affordability issues in the country, with over 1 million renters spending more than 30% of their income on housing, and 75,000 experiencing homelessness in 2023. Senate Bill 9 presents an opportunity to densify the city in a thoughtful way by allowing homeowners to add up to three additional units to their property, offering not only a solution to the housing crisis but also a chance for homeowners to generate passive income.
Our goal is to help create a more livable, affordable Los Angeles—one thoughtfully designed home at a time.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, it’s difficult to pinpoint just three qualities that have shaped our journey, but if we had to highlight a few, resilience, networking, and risk-taking stand out.
To develop resilience, approach challenges as learning opportunities. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, focus on problem-solving and pushing forward. Start with smaller challenges to build your endurance and learn to see obstacles as part of the process.
Networking is equally vital. Build genuine connections by attending industry events, joining groups, and reaching out to others for advice. The key is to foster relationships by offering help and staying in touch, not just seeking benefits.
As for risk-taking, start small and gradually take on bigger challenges. Don’t fear failure—each risk is an opportunity to grow. The more you step outside your comfort zone, the more confident and capable you become.
In short, these qualities develop with practice, and by embracing challenges, building connections, and taking calculated risks, you’ll find yourself growing personally and professionally.
How would you describe your ideal client?
Our ideal client is someone who values thoughtful, intentional design and trusts the expertise of the architect. We love working with clients who are passionate about creating a space that reflects their vision and are willing to rely on our creative process to bring that vision to life.
Clients who appreciate sustainability and modern design align perfectly with our philosophy. When they are transparent about their needs and open to pushing boundaries—allowing us to propose innovative and unconventional solutions—it results in the most successful and inspiring projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sb9-designstudiovoid.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designstudio_void/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DesignStudioVOID
Image Credits
@markofilms
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