We recently had the pleasure of interviewing the very talented Sukaina Khimjee, owner of @villa65design. She gives us a peek into her boutique design company and shares a bit about the face behind the business. A few months ago, Sukaina sent us a profile of her work and we were intrigued with her collection of art prints. Kath is particularly keen on discovering and showcasing local talent, especially when it falls within her design aesthetic and @villa65design fits the bill.

Can you give us the story behind @villa65design?
Born and raised in Dubai, I was surrounded by ambition and creativity. My dad is a real visionary and my mom artistic and creative. They always worked as a team. We grew up with learning about stylish home decor and interior design as they hosted vibrant and attractive wedding parties (including mine and my sisters) right outside our home, with its beautifully landscaped garden, carefully thought out decor, table arrangements and food styling. Since a young age we were always part of it all. From painting our own walls to designing our own furniture. Fast forward a few years and I graduated from American University in Dubai with Bachelor of Fine Arts. Fast forward few more years and I started my own company designing logos and branding for startups from USA, Canada, UK, UAE & Africa. Not long after that, I also decided to pursue a long time passion in home decor, designing artwork and cushions. I am currently working on designing a full dinnerware set. I work with different media such as painting, typography, illustration, graphics and photography. That is the story behind Villa65 and where it all began for me.

If you could describe your work in a tweet, what would you say?
A boutique company with a design focus on minimalism and simplicity. Beautiful and timeless designs for those who believe less is more.

Who/what inspires your work?
Travelling and meeting other artists and designers from different cultures who have mastered their craft inspire me. Some of the artists I met during my recent travels to Switzerland, Oman, Italy, Tanzania, South Africa, Iraq and Canada have inspired me. I try to keep in touch through social media.          

What is the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?
Develop your unique artistic style such that when someone sees it they know that’s you!

Something people don’t know about you?
I understand 6 languages and speak 5.

Favorite quote or personal mantra you live by?
Live life like a tourist. Wherever you are, always be exploring, even in your own city.  And from a spiritual standpoint, we are here in the world as tourists, this is not our final destination. Life is too short and temporary.

Please share your happiest or proudest creative moment.
Spotting my work out in the world is always a proud moment for me. 

Any tips, tricks or tools that you’ve discovered lately that would help other creative women?
Turn off your phones sometimes and you will find inspiration from within. 

Sukaina kindly agreed to a giveaway for our followers. One lucky House of Hawkes fan will walk away with 3 arabic inspired art prints. If you’d like to enter the giveaway, head over to the Instagram page for more detail