Maia Sahakian

My name is Maia Sahakian, and I am from Los Angeles, California, born and raised. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Communication from the University of Southern California in the Fall of 2018. For as long as I can remember, I have had a fascination with all things design. The desire for different fabrics, colors, textures and furniture has evolved into a lifelong captivation with design.

Throughout the last few years working first in fashion design and now interior design, I have been exposed to many elements of the design world. Each project and experience thus far has allowed me to explore new ideas, respond to new challenges, and develop my artistic and creative skills. I am especially detail oriented, organized and driven to make my clients happy.

Eventually, I aspire to open my own Interior Design company and apply my previous learnings and experiences in the interior design world to create beautiful, individualized spaces for others.

For the last 6 months, I have been working on the concept of ‘Reuse.’ In my past projects, we have taken old homes and residences and ‘reused’ the materials and mediums to further develop the project. I believe it is important to keep the architectural history or the ‘bones’ of a property when considering renovating the space. Using the past to guide your future direction. Over the next few months, I have developed my own proposition with regards to Nettleham Hall while still maintaining the history and layers of the site.

Originally drawn to the ruin by its history, I began to analyze the site and focused on its JUNCTIONS, QUOINS and LAYERS. Delving into the history of the ruin helped me formulate my conceptual strategy. I then established a concept for my project, deciding to incorporate a retreat experience within the ruin. Through several drawings, renders, plans and model making, I designed a narrative that clearly communicated my narrative– Maia’s Layer.