Canadian industrial designer Maha Alavi was introduced to the world of hardware when she worked for an online retailer of architectural specialties. This first role fostered a new interest, and even though she had already graduated, Alavi decided to go back to university and study industrial design. “I always knew I was creatively inclined, but I didn’t have the direction to actively pursue it until I developed a concrete vision,” she says.
Once Alavi took the plunge she immediately embraced hands-on exploration by readily trying various techniques. By 2023 she moved to Japan and founded her eponymous studio. Based in Tokyo, Alavi now designs a range of products from furniture to accessories.
Maha Alavi \\\ Photo: Maha Alavi Studio
Known for her metal objects, Alavi is interested in creating a comprehensive textile collection as a complement to her existing pieces – a natural extension of her current practice. She starts with soft materials like clay or wax, and the final items usually end up heavy, made of wood or metal. No matter what she chooses to experiment with though, she lets her intuition lead the way.
Travel provides endless inspiration for Alavi, who is fascinated by the way daily rhythms shift throughout the different geographies across the globe. Whether she spends time in Berlin, Paris, or Singapore, she makes sure to set aside time to research and gather design references from old books or antique markets.
Alavi records her plans in sketchbooks, usually in the form of scribbles or a messy cursive. She often misplaces these volumes, but doesn’t worry because she knows that more concepts will soon take shape in her mind. “All in all, I am not too fussed about documenting ideas too hard,” she notes. “They come and go, like waves on a shoreline.”
Today, Maha Alavi joins us for Friday Five!
Photo: Maha Alavi Studio
1. Time in Coffee Shops
I know I’m not alone in this, but there’s just something about spending time alone at a coffee shop. I make it a priority to do this in whatever city I’m in – a glimpse into local leisure culture, a bit of a shortcut if you will in understanding where you are. I love drawing, writing, and just watching people exist at their own pace. It’s a bit of a guilty pleasure. And this is my most favorite place to do exactly that in the trendy Haebangchon neighborhood of Seoul.
Photo: Maha Alavi Studio
I recently saw the work of Ilse D’Hollander at Victoria Miro, a gallery in London. I was immediately struck by the choice of color and elegant, understated composition of the piece. I’m learning more about color theory as I explore textile design, and looking to painters for answers and inspiration.
Photo: Maha Alavi Studio
Another London one, I love doing analogue research through vintage books. A favorite spot to do this is Walden Books. It’s a bit tucked away but never crowded. They have such a lovely selection of art, design, and craft related books situated in an overwhelmingly beautiful, relaxing space, a true gem!
Photo: Maha Alavi Studio
4. Antique Markets
Living in Tokyo, I’m lucky to have access to some of the best vintage and antique markets there are. I love going and looking around for special pieces. Recently, I’ve been collecting old kimono cloth for archival purposes. This photo was taken at the Oedo Antique Market in Chiyoda. It’s quite popular now, so I recommend going earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Photo: Maha Alavi Studio
The incredible Galerie Patrick Seguin in Paris is a Jean Prouvé archive, expertly curating his most beautiful work in one elegant space. Prouve’s work is a big source of inspiration for me, especially his Chandigarh era creations.
Works by Maha Alavi Studio:
LITHIC Chair Series
Inspired by the prehistoric, the LITHIC series is an ode to ancient craftsmanship. Made of solid oak wood, the carefully machined turns of each chair welcome the soft and generous cushion.
FROOOT Bowl
Crafted from molded resin, this bowl’s unique geometric design gives it an added charm. With a velvety, translucent finish, this piece blends form and function.
MOMI Knobs
Available in a polished white bronze, polished brass, and polished copper, the knobs have a presence that adds elegance and character to any space.
OLIO Vase Series
Each vase is hand sculpted from clay, and then cast directly in contrasting metal combinations to achieve a molten look that brings an organic touch to any room.
FAUNA Series Wall Hook
The FAUNA series features a wall hook, a functional piece of art cast from solid bronze. The living finish ages and changes with the seasons, which gives each piece a unique look.
