The creative creator

INTERIOR designer Adrien Ritzal has always been an artistic person since he was young. One of his earliest encounters with art owed a lot to Disney movies and Jurassic Park. He grew up as an avid fan who spent his time drawing and doodling characters from the movies.
Unfortunately, the 29-year-old was not able to pursue arts in secondary school and was forced to enter the Science stream "because that's just how things were back then". He decided to just roll with it until he finished his secondary education.
The light at the end of the tunnel came after he graduated because he was able to finally delve deeper into his passion; and he chose to head straight into interior design for college. His family was, thankfully, very supportive and this gave him more courage to enter this field.
Six years ago, he landed his first job in designing show units for property developers and from thereon, his creative streak kept going until he eventually set up his own design studio called Adrien Kent Creative Studio.
From styling cafes to residential units, some of his most notable works include Butter & Beans, Feeka, Food Foundry and Inside Scoop. He now focuses mainly on designing offices and retail space.
Can you share with us how did you develop an interest in art?
I had a very active imagination and I loved seeing it come to life when I drew them. Somehow that practice evolved into all sorts of art forms.
How did it turn into a passion for interior design then?
Interior design was an option I pondered, along with animator, and architect. In the end, I chose the one which I thought I could excel in.
What prompted you to start Adrien Kent Creative Studio?
It started with a lot of contemplation and hesitation. But I had a very good support system, so I did all I could to prepare myself in terms of the technicalities and logistics of setting up a company, including the whole SSM registration, finding an office, buying office furniture and all that jazz. Then I just allowed the business to flow.
When you are commissioned to a design project, what is the kind of work that goes into it?
Firstly, I'd do references, research on what is current, and what would work for that particular project. From there, I'd start with a material sample board, and a quick space planning to conceptualise the overall experience.

Is it tough being an interior consultant while running your own business simultaneously?
Yes it is. I tend to focus too much on the design part, and neglect the numbers. I'm still working on that.
What was the most difficult moment throughout your career?
Having to deal with difficult clients and not being able to say no to certain requests.

Which is your proudest project so far?
The Common Ground office that was launched recently. It is a 17,000 square foot co-working space that I worked on for four months.

What sort of interior do you enjoy designing the most?
Offices, strangely. It has a good mix of practical solutions, mixed with some creative injections and flair.
Tell us about your design philosophy.
I believe that too much of a good thing is bad actually. It's not about having or using the nicest of things, but the right kind of things instead.
Any word of advice to aspiring designers and artists out there?
Communication is key. Everything you do needs communication, both verbally and visually. Therefore, learn the languages and find your design voice.