Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Faten Baassiri. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Faten, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
Resilience, for me, was built from the ground up, starting with my family’s unwavering belief in education as the ultimate tool for navigating life’s challenges. My parents sacrificed so much to ensure that my siblings and I had the best education possible because they knew that knowledge is power. It arms you with the ability to adapt, push forward and stand tall when life throws obstacles in your way.
Travel has also been a major force in shaping my resilience. Being exposed to different cultures, traditions and languages has opened countless windows for me to grow and evolve. It teaches you to embrace change and keep moving forward no matter what. I was raised to believe that no matter how hard you fall, you rise, stand tall, and keep walking. You don’t wait for problems to disappear, you deal with them while moving forward, until they’re behind you.
Living in New York for the past ten years has been its own test of resilience. Immigrating here meant tapping into every ounce of strength and determination I had, proving to myself that I belonged and could make my mark. Through it all, I’ve held onto something my parents always reminded me of: Never hate a thing, for it might just be for a good reason. That mindset has carried me through turning challenges into stepping stones.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m Faten Baassiri, an interior designer with a deep passion for creating spaces that leave a lasting impact. I’ve always believed that good design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about how a space makes you feel and function in your daily life. Attention to detail and a fresh perspective are at the heart of everything I do.
In 2023, I earned my NCIDQ certification, a milestone that officially recognized my expertise in the field. I’m also a proud member of ASID (the American Society of Interior Designers), constantly learning and growing alongside other professionals.
My background includes a B.A. in Interior Architecture and a Master’s in Design from Milan, experiences that shaped my approach to blending function with creativity. Along the way, I’ve worked at various design firms, expanding my expertise beyond interiors to include custom furniture, architectural consultancy, product design and even urban furniture.
Over the years, I’ve worked on a wide range of projects—from cozy, small-scale interiors to large residential and commercial spaces. One of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever taken on was renovating a Pediatric Chemo Unit, a volunteer effort that earned me the Global Impact Grant Award in 2013. In 2017, my product designs were showcased at Chelsea Market, a proud moment for me not just as a designer but as someone committed to community-driven work. Through that collection, I had the opportunity to support underprivileged women, giving them a platform through fabrication assignments.
Studio 1820 is my boutique interior design studio, officially launched last year in New York, a city that never stops inspiring me. Blending global influences with modern and contemporary styles, we create spaces that are beautiful, functional and deeply personal. Whether it’s a cozy home, a full renovation or a commercial space, we handle every detail from concept to installation, making the process seamless and tailored to you. Launching this studio was a fresh start, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three things shaped my journey: resilience, adaptability and a commitment to constantly learning.
My advice? Embrace challenges, stay flexible and never stop learning, evolving. Even setbacks can lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who trusts the process and believes in collaboration. They’ve hired me because they want their vision brought to life, and that’s exactly what I love to do. My role is to make the journey smooth and exciting, not overwhelming. The best results come when clients keep an open mind and heart, allowing me to guide them toward what they’re truly looking for. Design is a partnership, and when there’s trust, the outcome is always something incredible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studio1820.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio1820_ny
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatenbaassiri
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