Meet FURKAN TAN

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful FURKAN TAN. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with FURKAN below.

FURKAN, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been deeply affected by spaces not just how they look, but how they feel. As a child, I would rearrange the furniture in my room constantly, not just to try something new, but because I noticed how much my mood changed depending on the layout, the light, the color. At the time, I didn’t have the words for it. I just knew that space had power.

My journey to becoming an interior designer didn’t follow a straight path. I explored other creative outlets art, architecture, even psychology before realizing that interior design beautifully blends all of them. It’s not just about making things look good; it’s about shaping how people experience their everyday lives. That realization was my turning point.

I found my purpose in helping people feel more at home in their own spaces. I love the moment when a client walks into a room we’ve created and says, “This feels like me.” That alignment between environment and identity is what drives me. Whether it’s a cozy apartment, a bustling office, or a quiet retreat, I believe every space has the potential to support, inspire, and uplift the people who use it.

Interior design, for me, is more than a career it’s a calling. It’s where my creativity meets empathy, where aesthetics meet function, and where my passion finds purpose.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m an interior designer, but more than that, I see myself as a storyteller one who uses color, texture, light, and form to tell the stories of the people who live and work in the spaces I design. For me, interior design isn’t just about making things look beautiful (though that’s certainly part of it); it’s about creating environments that feel meaningful, personal, and deeply supportive of the client’s lifestyle or mission.

What I find most exciting about my work is the transformation not just of a space, but of how people feel in that space. Whether I’m designing a cozy home, a modern office, or a boutique commercial space, I always aim to blend functionality with soul. I believe that great design doesn’t shout it speaks gently, inviting you in, grounding you, and helping you feel like the best version of yourself.

My approach is highly collaborative. I work closely with clients to understand not just what they like, but how they live, what they value, and what makes them feel at peace. I love weaving in unexpected details, personal touches, and design choices that reflect their unique story. That’s what makes each project so special.

Right now, I’m especially excited about [insert something new here e.g., launching a new design package, expanding into a new market, working on a dream project, hosting a design workshop, etc.]. It’s been a meaningful step forward in growing my brand and reaching new clients who are looking for intentional, inspiring design.

Ultimately, my brand is about more than interiors it’s about helping people feel at home in the truest sense. Whether it’s through a carefully curated room or a full-scale renovation, I want every client to walk into their space and feel, “This is me.”

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Curiosity
Curiosity has been my fuel. From experimenting with colors and layouts as a child to studying design trends and cultural influences today, I’ve always had a desire to explore and learn. This mindset has kept me open to new ideas and has helped me stay inspired, even when projects get challenging.
Advice: Stay curious read design books, visit new places, ask questions, take risks. Some of the best ideas come when you step outside your comfort zone.

2. Empathy
Empathy is at the heart of my work. Interior design is ultimately about people how they live, what makes them feel safe, productive, inspired. Being able to listen deeply and understand a client’s needs and emotions is what allows me to create spaces that truly reflect who they are.
Advice: Practice active listening. Try to really understand people’s stories, values, and lifestyle before jumping into aesthetics. Design that comes from empathy always resonates more deeply.

3. Adaptability
Every project comes with surprises budgets change, timelines shift, and unexpected challenges pop up. Learning to be flexible, think on my feet, and keep a solutions-oriented mindset has helped me grow both professionally and personally.
Advice: Don’t be discouraged by detours or delays. See them as opportunities to problem solve creatively. The ability to adapt will not only save you stress it will make you a better designer.

For those just starting out, I’d say this: focus on building relationships, not just a portfolio. Skills are essential, but your ability to connect, communicate, and collaborate will take you further than you think. Stay open, stay kind, and always stay learning.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

Throughout my journey as an interior designer, I’ve been fortunate to have several people who’ve helped me navigate challenges and develop the skills I needed to succeed. The most impactful have been my mentors, colleagues, and even clients.

Mentors have been invaluable, especially early on. One of my first mentors was a seasoned designer who took the time to teach me not just about the technical aspects of design but also about the importance of building relationships with clients and understanding the psychology of spaces. Their guidance helped me move beyond design theory and realize how deeply personal and transformative the design process can be.

Additionally, I’ve learned a great deal from my peers fellow designers and collaborators who’ve shared insights on everything from project management to creative problem-solving. Having a network of people I can turn to for advice or to share ideas has made a huge difference in how I approach challenges and innovate within my designs.

Lastly, my clients have been some of my greatest teachers. Every project is a learning opportunity, and the feedback and trust they give me have pushed me to continually grow and refine my craft. Working closely with people from different backgrounds and with unique needs has sharpened my adaptability, creativity, and ability to communicate effectively.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that no one succeeds alone. Whether it’s learning from others or leaning on a support system, having the right people around you is essential to growth.

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