Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria-Alejandra Icaza Paredes.
Hi Maria-Alejandra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I am a designer and an architect specializing in furniture and product design.
I currently work in a multidisciplinary studio designing interiors, furniture, products, and art installations. In parallel, I develop my designs, artworks, and crafts under the name of MAIPdesigns.
I began my design journey in Florence, Italy where I studied Interior Design and Industrial Design followed by a Bachelor of Architecture in Panama. I received a Master of Art in Industrial Design and a Master of Art in Furniture Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design SCAD. In recent years, I was awarded several Honorable Mentions from IDA Design Awards and European Product Design Award.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Fortunately for me, it has been a smooth road thanks to my supportive parents and the opportunities that have come my way.
That is not to say that it hasn’t been a challenging journey with bumps along the road, but my willingness and strength to overcome situations have led me to where I am today. If I had to describe myself I would say I am resilient.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about MAIPdesigns?
MAIPdesigns is a multidisciplinary design studio of interiors, furniture, products, and art installations. When a client approaches me, we discuss what their goals, needs, and wants are to create a design that serves them.
I enjoy going through the process with them because each instance is unique. No matter how big or small a project is, they deserve the same level of attention and care. I would describe my designs as thought-out, detail-oriented, and focused on the particular characteristics of each project.
My work represents a journey across different design disciplines, a constant hunger for knowledge, and the goal of becoming a well-rounded designer.
From Architecture comes an approach to design following the Vitruvian Virtues of Architecture: Utilitas, Firmitas, and Venustas. The principle states that design should keep a balance between durability, utility, and beauty. From Design comes an appreciation for details, materials, and manufacturing processes. Striving for a harmonious result, the work stands in the fine line between art and design.
What do you think about happiness?
Appreciating the little things is how I find happiness. An ordinary moment that unfolds in a particularly perfect way. Sipping a coffee that is fragrant, not too hot, not too cold; just right. Noticing the slight curvatures of a chair that was designed to fit your body so comfortably. A discreet tab, notch, fold or slot in an object, often overlooked, that in reality had a very specific purpose all along. Design is present in all aspects of life and it is impossible for me to visualize a world without it. My fascination with the built environment, the objects that populate it, and how strongly they all influence human behavior are the driving forces behind my designs. Observing interactions of people and things going on in daily life makes me smile.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.maipdesigns.com/
- Instagram: @MAIPdesigns
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maipdesigns/
