Interview with Pepe Calderin, CEO / President of Pepe Calderin Design, US
Interview with Joy Chen, Director of Ideas Design, TW
July 24, 2019
Interview with Shawn Goh Chin Siang, Creative Director of Shawn Goh Graphic Design Lab, MY
July 25, 2019
Pepe Calderin
Pepe Calderin, Founder and Principal of Pepe Calderin Design, has over 20 years of experience in high-end residential and commercial interior design.
Interview with the 2019 Muse Design Awards Winner - Pepe Calderin
1Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2019 Muse Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
These are two of our latest projects. We felt that they have all the elements necessary for recognition and deserved a chance to be entered. They are both very different projects. One is a very warm residential project, and the other is a very cool commercial project.
2What was the biggest challenge with this project?
For sure the budget was a consideration on both projects. General and existing condition dictated decisions. I always feel those challenges are what drives us to do our best as designers.
3How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
We have won many awards in the past and they are each stepping stones to build a career and identify you as a great designer.
4What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
1. The fact that this is a creative business, and you are around creativity and inspiration.
2. That you have the chance to create beauty and enhance the lives of others.
3. That it is a diverse industry compared to many others.
2. That you have the chance to create beauty and enhance the lives of others.
3. That it is a diverse industry compared to many others.
5What makes your country specifically, unique in the creative industry?
We have great resources and great clientele in the US.
6Where do you see the evolution of creative industry going over the next 5-10 years?
We're currently seeing huge advances in technology. I see that it's continuing to grow, and eventually, designers will be even more conscious about environmental effects and the general well-being of the world at large. Definitely more eco-friendly integration with solar and wind power, composting systems, and reused and refurbished materials.
7If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring Muse Award submitter, what advice would you give them?
Always follow your heart.
8What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the creative industry?
Follow those that will inspire you in your business, keep yourself informed of new technology, and always remember the past is for learning, not dwelling.
9Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
I have no secrets.
10Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My mentor, architect Richard Levine was the greatest influence early on in my career. With his help, I was able to become a self-taught designer. I also have always loved following the work of the great masters of modernísimo.
11What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Stay true to your heart and love what you do.
Everything always passes. There are no difficult projects.
Don’t let yourself be caught in thinking you are the only one doing the work.
Share the love and success.
12Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I want to thank the MUSE Awards for the opportunity for us to enter my body of work and selecting me as a winner on 2 projects. It was above our expectations. We are grateful and honored.
Winning Entries
Il Villaggio | 2019
We were approached by the Il Villaggio Condominium to renovate the 7,000-square-foot lobby and common areas. The condominium wanted the design of the areas to be brought up to date while complimenting the exterior views... (read more)
New York City Residence | 2019
Infusing a rock and roll flair in a luxury apartment was no problem for Pepe Calderin. With his own love for the genre leading the way, he selected art pieced and unique lighting that would accentuate this pop... (read more)
Pepe Calderin Design
Pepe Calderin Design is an interior design firm serving residential & commercial clients based in New York & Miami. New York and Miami-based interior design firm dedicated to designing high-end residential and commercial spaces strongly infused with energy and warmth. With over 20 years of experience, the firm has earned national and international design accolades for a variety of spaces, styles, and a portfolio that spans over four continents. Pepe Calderin Design has garnered recognition for its fresh, energetic, visionary approach to the modern design process, where the philosophy is "A space has no boundaries, and has limitless possibilities."