Cindy Ogene is an interior designer and Creative Director of Sculpt Design.
In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde she talks about making bespoke pieces, pushing boundaries, inspiration and more.
Let’s talk about life as a furniture designer?
Being an Interior designer is like being a magician. You take simple materials and transform them into bespoke pieces that not only serve a purpose but also ignite the imagination. With projects like “The Hermes Project”, it’s about pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and creating a unique narrative through design. It’s a thrilling journey of discovery, creativity, and innovation!
What was the inspiration?
My mom is my rock, my guiding star. She wasn’t just selling curtains, bedsheets, and duvets, while growing up. She was weaving dreams. I remember how she would take my brothers and I along to her projects, showing us the magic of creation. Her determination, her relentless pursuit of new clients, moving from one unfinished house to another, marketing her business was inspiring. She didn’t just work hard, she worked smart, and that’s what made her business thrive. So, yes, she is my greatest inspiration. Her spirit, her tenacity, that’s what I carry with me in every project I design and deliver.
What are some of the things you produce or work on?
As a Creative Director, I don’t just craft furniture, I bring dreams to life. From unique TV units to stunning sofas, chic coffee tables, and cozy throw pillows, each creation is a masterpiece. But there’s more! I take on larger than-life projects, transforming an empty shell into a warm, inviting home/office. From the carcass to the final furnishing touches, every project is a journey. Be it residential or commercial, each canvas is filled with creativity and meticulous attention to detail, painting a picture of comfort and style.
What are some of the challenges?
In this industry, challenges are part of the journey. From sourcing top-notch materials, sometimes even importing them, to managing artisans with diverse skills can be quite a ride. Coupled with the task of meeting clients’ unique tastes and striking the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics, it’s certainly not a walk in the park. But the thrill of overcoming these hurdles and seeing the final masterpiece. Absolutely priceless.
Tell us about the memorable moments in the sector?
Oh, there are so many memorable moments! One that stands out is when we completed “The Hermes Project”. Seeing our vision come to life and the client’s reaction was truly unforgettable. Each project brings its own unique experiences and challenges, making this journey incredibly rewarding.
Not many women are carpenters or furniture makers what motivated your interest?
There are actually a lot of women in my field. I’ll say Interior Design is a female dominated field. And that’s exactly part of what sparked my interest. I saw it as a chance to shake things up more, bring in a fresh wave of creativity, The sheer joy of crafting bespoke pieces and breathing life into spaces is just too enticing to resist! Plus, I’ve always had this knack for transforming and beautifying things. Back in the days, my friends even nicknamed me “Cindy the Pimper” because anything I touched would instantly sparkle and dazzle. It was like magic! So, this sector felt like a natural fit for my talents.
Tell us about the Hermes Project?
“The Hermes Project” was an exciting journey of creativity and innovation. We drew our inspiration from the renowned Hermes brand, which is known for its unique and timeless elegance. This project allowed us to channel that same elegance into our bespoke furniture pieces. Each piece was meticulously designed and crafted, reflecting the perfect blend of style and function. It was more than just a project; it was a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality, custom interior design solutions that push the boundaries of the ordinary and venture into the extraordinary.
What are some of the lessons learnt in life and your career?
Life and career have taught me a lot. One key lesson is that patience and persistence are crucial. In my career, especially with “The Hermes Project”, I’ve learned that great things take time. Also, embracing change and being adaptable is vital. Whether it’s a sudden shift in design trends or a client’s change of heart, flexibility has been my ally. Lastly, never stop learning. Every project, every client, every challenge is a chance to learn and grow. It’s a journey, not a race.
What are the other things that occupy your time?
In addition to my fascination with creating bespoke furniture pieces and transforming bare spaces into something beautiful, I find myself deeply engaged in connecting and finalizing deals with potential clients. When time allows, I relish the opportunity to explore the world through travel. It’s a harmonious blend of work and passion for me.
Tell us about the turning point in your career?
The moment that truly pivoted my career was when I took on “The Project Brooklyn”. It was like diving into a whole new universe, filled with challenges. It pushed me to think outside the box and the client was super amazing, giving me total creative freedom. So, I was able to sprinkle my creativity and infuse my unique touch into the project, making it distinctive. It was more than just a project, it was a game-changer that totally jazzed up my career.
Let’s talk about the people you admire?
When I think about the people I admire, First, I would say my parents. Because I am drawn to those who aren’t afraid to be different, who challenge the status quo and they did. I also admire people who see beauty in everything and have a knack for transforming ordinary things into extraordinary ones. I’m inspired by those who understand that success takes patience, persistence, and continuous learning. And lastly, I deeply respect people who can balance their work with their passion.
If you had to advise young people who want to come into the sector, what will you tell them?
For anyone wanting to dive into this creative sector, I would say, don’t be afraid to bring your fresh perspective and challenge the norm. Remember, patience and persistence are key. Be ready to adapt and keep learning because trends change and so should you. And most importantly, find joy in the work. When you love what you do, like crafting a piece of furniture or designing an interior, it shines through in the end result. So, go ahead, transform and beautify the world around you!
What are you looking forward to in the next few years?
In the next few years, I am really looking forward to seeing how my journey in the Interior Design and Real Estate sector unfolds. I.am eager to take on more challenging projects, push my creative boundaries further, and hopefully, start mentoring the next generation of creatives. I can’t wait to see where this path takes me.
Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?
I will say my mom and dad, along with my passion for design and creativity, has been the greatest influence in my life. Their strength and wisdom have been invaluable. In the custom furniture and interior design sector, I am surrounded by talented women, and I am inspired every day to bring my unique perspective to this creative field. These influences have truly shaped who I am today.
What are some of the changes that you would like to see in the sector?
In the custom furniture and interior design sector, I would love to see more opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing. I believe that when we work together and share our unique perspectives, we can create truly stunning and innovative designs. I also hope to see more emphasis on sustainability and using eco-friendly materials. Let’s design a beautiful future, not just for us, but for generations to come.