Harry Nuriev: Follow Your Instincts and Be Yourself

Deadlight for submitting applications for participation in Lexus Design Award expires on October 28th. In 2019, the slogan of this seventh annual contest is ‘Design for Better Future’, so the participants of Lexus Design Award area sked to develop innovative and fresh business solutions in field of design that are capable to contribute to the better future of our society. The jury of the contest’s Russian round, the Lexus Design Award Russia Top Choice, are Sergey Shanovich, Ria Keburia, Alexander Grek and Harry Nuriev. The latter agreed to give as an express interview about the Russian style and the good design. 

Do you think it is possible to be trendy and simultaneously stay true to the roots? 

The things that you mentioned are two absolutely different design tools, and it is only for you to decide how to use them in your work. As for me personally, I find the roots to be more important element, which I can turn into a new trend.

Is it worth to follow the trends in general?

I guess you have to follow your instincts and be yourself. 

Re:collection by Crosby Studios AT the Cosmoscow FAIR – Russian minimalism and avant-garde

How do you use Russian heritage in your projects?

I try to use it smoothly and with great pleasure. My favorite task is to show something usual and habitual from completely new perspective. 

In your opinion, does there exist such concept such as modern Russian style, and if yes, then what is it?

I don’t think that such a young country as ours may have its own style, but we’re working on it.

What do they have in New York that we don’t have here in Moscow and vice versa? I mean in terms of design industry and opportunities for designers.

I’m not sure. New York requires designers to come up with new ideas, develop the break-through innovations that can shake the world.

Moscow tends to looks around, analyse, reflect.

Crosby Loft in Moscow, Crosby Studios

How do you think what is a recipe for success regarding your extensive popularity in New York? 

I won’t tell you, it’s commercial secret. Just kidding. What kind of recipe can be here? Work, work, again work and try to do your work better and better every day. Innovations and courage to offer such innovations is another important factor.

Is Russian design capable to gain popularity abroad?

Good design is always interesting and useful for any audience.

How have you transitioned from interior project to the furniture design, and how would you estimate the role of art in the interior design? 

Furniture, art, fashion – any design fields that make the feel good are welcomed at our studio, There is no difference between them all, since you actually do everything you do for the people. 

Collaboration between Opening Ceremony x Crosby Studios

Pink, blue, purple – how do you come up with these creative periods of yours?

The Three Graces of outgoing century are naivety, persistence and boldness. By the way, they make up a nice pallete.

What do you think is a good design?

A popular one.