< Previous Design DNA DNA Founder and CEO of Dubai and Moscow-based Braginskaya & Architects Marina Braginskaya on making design dreams a reality, inspiration from Venice and what makes life beautiful MARINA’S DESIGN PICKS: 1. DS-600 by de Sede. One day I will have it! Even though it’s so popular and there are so many sofas inspired by it, I still think it’s the best. And yes, it IS comfortable. 2. Vermelha armchair by Edra is a fun object that adds playfulness. After seeing how all Edra pieces are created in the factory, how can I not admire their approach? 3. Kate table by Baxter. We all know Baxter for perfect leather sofas. But I admire how they made the brand bigger than that; their new creations are perfect too. I love their marble work. 4. Lucid Love by Verhoeven Twins. There are plenty of collectible design pieces I admire. This one represents such a simple and beautiful idea. Makes me happy every time I see it and honestly, it brings a smile to everyone, no matter what their design preferences may be. 1 2 I constantly seek inspiration from art, travel, exploring various cultures, and my customers of course. Working in the fi eld of design for 20 years, I have my own vision, but I always remember that I work for people and I always try to make their life beautiful. My main inspiration is the client – their interests, passions, lifestyle and taste. Good design is fuelled by discovering a person. At this point in my life I am facing new tasks and setting new goals focused on the UAE market. Th ere’s a lot to do here and it fuels my creativity. We have quite a lot of projects running in Dubai right now. Recently, more opportunities appeared in Abu Dhabi and very interesting ones in Europe, too. It’s not easy working in several places at the same time, but it gives us the most diverse view of the international design scene. I am most proud of my three kids and the way they are growing up with an international background already. Seeing them enjoying their life here and being so free, open-minded and creative is a pure joy. And they are so diff erent from each other; it’s fascinating to see how their personalities are shaped from a very early age. I’m a very hard-working mother – raising them alone, working long hours with very few days off or vacations. But I hope that me viewing a job not as a struggle, but as a real passion sets a good example for my children. It’s really important to follow your heart and develop your skills in something that really inspires you. Do what you love and love what you do. My home is my safe space. Even if it’s always messy (three kids and two cats!). Th ere should always be some comforting elements that help you set the perfect mood for rest. I love to travel to Venice, for the biennale every year. Both architecture and art is a must. Th e resource of creating and connecting with the vision of artists from all over the world is incomparable. Design is an important part of my life because it’s life in the most beautiful form. Nothing can be more pleasant than building something in your mind, and then seeing it come to life. 4 130 HarpersBazaarArabia.com/Culture/Interiors Winter 2022 4 3 Design DNA HBI_059_130_Design DNA_13060031.indd 13005/12/2023 13:31SUBS.ITP.COM MIAMI’S ART SCENE UNCOVERED subscribe now clockwise from top left miles aldridge. 3-D. 2010. Chromogenic print. 152.5×152.5cm. Edition of 3. TYPOE. Over The Rainbow. 2021. Site-speci c mural at The Andy Warhol Museum. Courtesy of the artist. MAURIZIO CATTELAN. Comedian. 2019. Banana, duct tape. Variable dimensions, 20x20x5cm. Courtesy of the artist and Perrotin. ART_003_313_Subscribe_12758287.indd 3141/23/2023 2:58:58 PMSUBLIME SUMMERHOUSE LIVING Amongst tranquil gardens, glimmering waterways and a two-kilometre private beach, Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf is a home for an intimate, luxury retreat within its newly refurbished Arabian-inspired summerhouses set in the heart of Madinat Jumeirah. Unveiling spacious and elegant Arabesque rooms and suites with modern air, revel in an unforgettable stay complemented by exclusive pools, daily apézritifs and 24-hour villa butler service. jumeirah.com/DAMNext >