product design
The piece explores the realities of life as a working artist and designer, emphasizing the necessity of selling in order to keep creating. It traces the author’s journey from early career decisions to navigating brand loyalty, evolving product lines, and the importance of “wow” moments at major markets. The article highlights how passion, risk-taking and commercial awareness shape long-term success in the design industry.
My current favorites are the Sare Floor Lamp and the upcoming MetLife table. My favorite interior design project was a residential home in Bebek, Istanbul. I designed it during covid, and despite the dreary circumstances, I felt proud to create designs that reflect a more positive and fun world. That project makes me happy every time I see the images.
Gunawan defines herself as a progressive architect. When people hear the term progressive architect they get intimidated. In her experience, people assume it means something technical and lofty, but she stands by the term. It means always improving, turning failures into opportunities. In practice that means building upon what already exists. This is the philosophy behind the name of her architecture design and build firm, The Only Way is Up.
Influenced by architects and artists of the 1970s, the Spring 2023 Collection includes an
assortment of furniture, upholstered sofas and chairs, dining and bedside tables, credenzas,
lighting and more. Modernized for the upscale American market today, the collection features an
overstuffed puffer, rounded velvet sofa, concrete nesting tables in organic shapes and several
chairs including a belted, leather slingseat dining chair. Polished concrete, walnut, velvet, soft
leather and linen are some of the materials in application.


