Islam Elsayed

Specialized in Architecture Design.

Islam Elsayed

About Islam Elsayed

Established in 2017 by Islam Farrag, Core Architects, a design & build firm was a rising star among the architecture firms in Kuwait at the time. With a multimillion-Kuwaiti Dinar project in one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Kuwait City, the firm was able to climb its way up. In early 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the city went into lockdown, and many businesses struggled to survive. Core was no exception. The studio faced a significant challenge as projects were put on hold, clients canceled contracts, and the team had to adapt to remote work. Islam refused to let his dreams crumble. He quickly gathered the team together, albeit virtually, and brainstormed ideas to keep the studio afloat during these uncertain times.

  • Winner of the A' Design Award.
  • Specialized in Architecture Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Architecture
Al Ghunayman Villa Architecture

Al Ghunayman Villa Architecture

Architecture Design

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Interview with Islam Elsayed

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
"Architecture has been a part of me since childhood. From sketching homes in my notebooks to constantly rearranging furniture to improve how a space felt, design was always intuitive. Studying architecture only deepened that connection, and working in the field confirmed what I’d always known—I love solving problems through thoughtful design. It’s where creativity meets purpose, and it feels natural to me.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
I lead Core Architects, a design-focused studio operating across Egypt, Kuwait, and recently expanding into Spain. We specialize in residential and commercial projects, with a strong emphasis on creating spaces that not only function well but also evoke a sense of emotion and belonging—we design spaces that feel right as good as they look.
What is "design" for you?
Design, to me, is the way we shape the world we live in—not just through aesthetics, but by creating spaces that are functional, comfortable, and beautiful in equal measure. It’s never just about decoration; it’s about purpose and experience.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I have a strong passion for designing homes—especially villas—because it’s such a personal process. I enjoy thinking through how people live, move, rest, and connect within a space. Every family has its own rhythm, and translating that into a home they truly connect with is a challenge I genuinely enjoy.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
Al Ghunayman Villa has been one of my most meaningful projects to date. It was both a cultural and architectural journey—an exploration of how to honor tradition while introducing light, simplicity, and a sense of calm. Experiencing the space in real life exceeded even my own expectations.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
It was a private villa project in Kuwait, and although I was still early in my career, I approached it with a deep sense of care and commitment. The experience taught me valuable lessons about understanding client needs, navigating site constraints, and the importance of patience throughout the design process.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I'm drawn to natural materials like stone and wood—they age gracefully and add a sense of warmth and authenticity to a space. On the technical side, I enjoy working with SketchUp and Lumion, as they allow me to quickly and clearly visualize concepts and communicate ideas effectively.
When do you feel the most creative?
I find that my most creative thinking happens when I’m relaxed—often early in the morning or after a walk. Traveling and encountering unexpected experiences also inspire fresh connections and new perspectives in my design approach.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
I prioritize precise proportions, optimized natural lighting, and spatial flow to enhance user experience. if a space doesn’t feel comfortable and meaningful the moment you enter, then the design is incomplete.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
It’s a blend of pride, relief, and joy. Witnessing a concept evolve from an idea into a tangible reality is always a deeply rewarding and powerful experience.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
When my designs come to life, I feel a mix of pride, satisfaction, and excitement. It’s incredibly rewarding to see an idea transform into a tangible space that people can experience and connect with. That moment validates the hard work and creativity invested, and motivates me to keep pushing boundaries.
What makes a design successful?
A successful design seamlessly integrates functionality with its environment, serving the needs of its users while feeling intuitive and natural. It’s about enhancing everyday life, not just creating aesthetic appeal.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
Functionality and emotional resonance are my priorities—if a design effectively addresses the problem and feels intuitive, then it succeeds. Aesthetic beauty naturally follows.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
As architects shaping how people live, it’s our responsibility to be thoughtful—utilizing resources efficiently, prioritizing sustainable design, and creating spaces that promote well-being.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
Design is increasingly focusing on human-centered and eco-conscious principles. I believe the future lies in simplicity, adaptability, and leveraging technology in ways that enhance, rather than replace, or lose the human touch.
When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
While I haven’t held a personal exhibition yet, I’m eager to showcase my work publicly in the near future—potentially in vibrant design hubs like Madrid or Dubai.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
My inspiration primarily comes from culture, travel, and nature. I also draw insights from everyday life—observing how people move, sit, and relax—and I constantly capture ideas through notes and photographs.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
I favor a minimal, calm approach that respects the surrounding context. I work with timeless materials, clean lines, and natural light—an aesthetic I explore because it fosters a sense of peace and balance for the people who experience the space.
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
I currently divide my time between Egypt, Kuwait, and Spain, and this multicultural experience profoundly influences my work. Elements of Arab architecture, Islamic geometry, and Mediterranean warmth are reflected throughout my designs. The challenge lies in balancing these diverse influences to suit the local context of each project while maintaining the design’s identity and functionality.
How do you work with companies?
My process begins with attentive listening to truly understand their goals and requirements. I prioritize building strong partnerships where ideas flow freely, ensuring the design process is collaborative rather than simply executing instructions. Clear communication and collaboration are the key—I believe successful projects come from partnership , not just execution.
What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
Stay open-minded and trust the design process. A skilled designer not only listens attentively but also thoughtfully challenges ideas. It’s important to choose a partner whose values align closely with your goals.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
My process begins with thorough research, followed by sketching and testing concepts in 3D. I combine hand drawings with digital tools to explore ideas. It’s an iterative journey—I refine and review until the design feels both functional and meaningful."
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
My essentials include my sketchbook, a comfortable leather reading chair, a handcrafted Moroccan lamp, a scale model of one of my projects, and of course, my espresso machine.
Can you describe a day in your life?
My day typically starts early with coffee and emails, followed by design work or reviewing drawings. I make time to walk or exercise before dinner, and I dedicate my evenings to spending quality time with family.
Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
Stay curious, keep learning, and trust the pace of your growth. Take your time to find your voice, and be patient and kind to yourself when things don’t go as expected.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
The most rewarding part is seeing ideas take shape in the real world. The challenge lies in the emotional intensity of the work—the process can be long, complex, and uncertain.
What skills are most important for a designer?
Key qualities include observation, patience, empathy, and the ability to listen and adapt. While technical tools are important, it’s the mindset that truly shapes meaningful design.
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
I work with tools like SketchUp, Lumion, and AutoCAD, alongside hand sketches. I also gather mood images and material samples to explore and convey the atmosphere of a space.
Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
I manage my time by breaking large tasks into smaller, actionable steps. I rely on to-do lists and time blocking for focused work, while also setting clear boundaries to save time for family and rest."
How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
Timelines vary depending on the type, scale, and requirements of each case. For example, a villa can take anywhere from three months to over a year, depending on its scale and client's decisions.
What was your most important job experience?
My most important job experience has been building long-term relationships with clients who choose to work with me repeatedly is incredibly meaningful and rewarding.
Who are some of your clients?
I primarily work with families, developers, and private investors across Egypt, Kuwait, and recently, Spain.
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
My most enjoyable design work is residential projects because it’s deeply personal and emotional, directly influencing how people experience their daily lives.
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
I find the greatest fulfillment in residential design, because it’s deeply personal and emotional, directly influencing how people experience their daily lives.
Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
I do both. I handle the core design personally while collaborating with a small, trusted team to develop and execute the project.
Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
Yes, I’m currently designing a coastal home in Spain that harmoniously blends Mediterranean and Arab architectural styles—an exciting and inspiring project.
How can people contact you?
People can reach me via email at islam.farrag@gmail.com or connect with my studio through my Instagram handle @corearchitects or website www.core-db.co .
Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
At the end, I would like to emphasize that I remain committed to continuous learning, growth, and building connections with others who are passionate about meaningful design.

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