As a studio that deeply values the collaborative spirit of interior design, we’re constantly inspired by the stories and insights of other designers who approach their work with humility, curiosity, and vision. Recently, we came across a journal post by Mazen Eshak, founder of Mazen Designs, that speaks directly to the heart of what we believe design is really about: connection.
His post, Why Staying Connected Within the Design Community Matters, is a quiet, honest reminder that no matter how talented or experienced we are, our work is always stronger when we stay grounded in community.
Connection Over Competition
Mazen’s reflections are a powerful counterpoint to the hyper-competitive pace of New York’s design scene. He speaks from experience — as someone who transitioned from hospitality and sales into interior design, and who quickly made a name for himself not through self-promotion, but through showing up, listening, and collaborating.
At His & His Design, this approach resonates. The idea that we grow with one another, not in isolation, is something we’ve seen time and time again in our own projects. Whether we’re connecting with millworkers, architects, artists, or showroom teams, it’s those relationships — often built over coffee or chance encounters — that make the difference between a good project and a great one.
What Mazen Designs Is Doing Right
Here’s what we admire most about Mazen’s approach, and what we think more designers (ourselves included) can learn from:
Presence Matters
Mazen actively participates in NYC’s design events, not to be seen — but to be in conversation. His presence in the local scene has helped build trust, visibility, and meaningful partnerships.
Mazen actively participates in NYC’s design events, not to be seen — but to be in conversation. His presence in the local scene has helped build trust, visibility, and meaningful partnerships.
Process Is Personal
Rather than positioning his brand as a glossy, untouchable label, Mazen invites people into his process. His reflections on mentorship, learning from others, and staying grounded remind us that good design comes from listening, not just leading.
Rather than positioning his brand as a glossy, untouchable label, Mazen invites people into his process. His reflections on mentorship, learning from others, and staying grounded remind us that good design comes from listening, not just leading.
Design Is Cultural
Mazen brings a deeply multicultural perspective to his work — rooted in his childhood experiences in Syria and Portland. His ability to incorporate global textures and narratives into local NYC projects makes his portfolio feel both personal and expansive.
Mazen brings a deeply multicultural perspective to his work — rooted in his childhood experiences in Syria and Portland. His ability to incorporate global textures and narratives into local NYC projects makes his portfolio feel both personal and expansive.
Why This Matters (Especially Now)
We’re living in an age of surface-level connectivity — quick likes, fast follows, and endless scrolling. But real connection, the kind that leads to referrals, collaborations, and inspiration, takes more than visibility. It takes intentionality.
Mazen’s post is a good reminder that the designers who continue to thrive are the ones who continue to show up — for their clients, their collaborators, and their peers.
Want to See This in Action?
We encourage you to explore the thoughtful work of Mazen Designs, where each project is layered with story, material depth, and technical rigor. If you’re a fellow designer or someone in the trade, you’ll likely find something that resonates. And if you're a prospective client looking to partner with someone who values clarity, collaboration, and creativity, Mazen’s approach is worth your attention.
To connect with Mazen Eshak or learn more about his design philosophy, you can reach out through his contact page. We’re glad to be part of a design community where studios like his remind us why this work matters.
Let’s keep the conversation going
What are some ways you stay connected within your own design community? Drop us a message or share your thoughts — we’d love to feature more designers and voices in future posts.
What are some ways you stay connected within your own design community? Drop us a message or share your thoughts — we’d love to feature more designers and voices in future posts.
— His & His Design
