In this fifth episode of "Parole de Designer", we are delighted to unveil the portrait of Parisa BAZARGANI, talented interior designer and founder of the PARISAIKA studio. Influenced by the harmonies of nature and notions of home that she adopted when she moved to Sydney, she collaborated with our ateliers to create her very first collection of "Home" furniture, including the Cocoon sofa, the Cuddle armchair, the Cuore ottoman and the Chio table.
Hello Parisa, and thank you for this interview. How are you doing today?
Hello Hugo, I’m well thank you and happy to speak with you on this occasion. It’s been lovely to share our work together recently and recieve rewarding momentum towards the collection.
You've been living in Australia since 2019, so why did you choose to work on the other side of the world with our Lyon atelier?
I graduated in 2013 and started my professional career with an internship at Harrods Interiors and then within leading luxury studios in London and Melbourne. I worked on refined projects encompassing interiors and bespoke furniture for hotels and private residences, followed by solo commissions. These experiences enriched my expertise on the artisanal approach in design and the intricacies of the process. When I designed the Home collection in 2021, I was drawn to the ateliers Jouffre for their unparalleled savoir-faire in French craftsmanship and for their dedication to excellence. I also resonated with the creativity and works of the designers with whom you have collaborated with. With the teams artistry, the pieces have been brought to life exactly as imagined.
Could you introduce us to your first collection titled ‘Home’?
The first series of the Home collection includes the sofa ‘Cocoon’, the armchair ‘Cuddle’, the ottoman ‘Cuore’ and the table ‘Chio’. I was inspired by my visit of Australia’s east coast, pairing my first trip post lockdown and along the coastlines allowed me to observe it’s nature with a sense of wonder. Their are many sheltered coves and beaches which all curve inwards towards the shoreline. The waves curl precisely and align seamlessly with the sand. The collection is an ode to those natural harmonies I encountered when travelling.
This began with the aim to evoke the sensoriality of nature through pieces that are in place with the landscape, for the home. This started through geometrical studies and research in the principals of symmetry and proportion. Which then turned into expressing notions of what home is, such as an embrace, a moment of reflection, comfort and gatherings. And lastly to capture the collections spirit of discovery. For example with the ottoman ‘Cuore’, when seated on the sand I noted how comfortable it was to have a natural dip that creates a cushioned space to nestle in. The concave top is a playful nod to that feeling.
What was your collaborative approach with our teams throughout the manufacturing process?
It has been incredibly enriching to collaborate with the design studio, project team and artisans at Jouffre. It came very naturally to share a vision and passion for production of the pieces. Through their extensive technical savoir-faire in craftsmanship, the teams creative solutions provided clarity which strengthened the works. Each piece was skillfully created with delicate detailing to reveal the simplicity of their curved silhouettes. I visited the atelier in Lyon several times and appreciated their inviting atmosphere and our continued conversations throughout the manufacturing process.
What considerations were important in your selection of Loro Piana's CashFur fabric?
It was important to select natural and tactile materials which reflect the essence of the pieces. When I visited the Jouffre workroom and previewed the CashFur fabric, I connected to it’s upholstery for the Cocoon sofa and Cuddle armchair. The cashmere and silk blend perfectly encapsulates the emotive qualities of cosiness, warmth and softness. These in turn envelope the seated experience and beautifully compliment the pieces.
Do you already have any future projects in mind?
The Cuddle armchair and Cuore ottoman will debut this October at Design Miami Paris with the Galerie Scene Ouverte. Further works will be present to preview at their Paris gallery and showcased at future collectible fairs. I am also currently completing the second series of the Home collection. I'm truly pleased in what has been achieved so far and am looking forward to continue developing next pieces.
We warmly thank Parisa for her kindness and this inspiring conversation, a reflection of her commitment to creating works rich in beauty and emotion.