Today we’d like to introduce you to Irene Rabinovici.
Hi Irene, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Since I was a kid, had a deep appreciation for spaces and dwellings. I remember that many of my Sundays with my dad were spent driving around beautiful streets from Caracas, Venezuela (my hometown) watching the architecture. Since then, I knew I wanted to be an architect. But when the time arrived to go to the university, I was convinced that to make it in life I had to have a career in engineering or something similar. So, I discarded my acceptance letter from the architecture college and pursued a B.A. in computer science and worked for corporate America (A formula that was good… But not for me).
Knowing that I was not happy, and I still had a call for design, I decided to take some classes at Parsons School of Design and Columbia University to build my portfolio and finally apply for a master’s degree in Interior Design at the IED Madrid where I got my diploma.
Since 2008 I have been working as an interior designer. Since the beginning of my career in Madrid, I oversaw commercial projects mainly for restaurants and the food industry in Europe and Asia, then I started working for the hospitality industry and completely fell in love with the world of hospitality.
Then I had to move back to Venezuela for 4 years and finally my family and I were able to stablish here in Miami where I founded 1H Studio. The studio has been my dream to be able to transform spaces and lives by creating and making my client’s dreams real.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been many bumps along the way, I had had to emigrate twice in the past decade. To emigrate is not easy and has requested to test all the areas of my life, including my family and my work. I have had the need to adapt and to start over and over again. One thing I can say is that it made me stronger and more resilient. It has taught me to adapt and has given me the opportunity to work with people from so many different backgrounds that it has been a blessing in disguise.
Finally, we decided to permanently move to Miami in 2015, and was then that I founded 1H Studio. My dream.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
1H Studio is the name of my interior design sanctuary, a name that holds a deeper significance. A single letter that was once lost from my identity and family name when my ancestors set off in search of a better life. But now, that very same letter has returned to me as a symbol of purpose, inspiration, and creativity.
As a space designer, I’m driven by a human-centered approach to design. The “H” in 1H Studio gives us a unique perspective, creating spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing, but functional and inviting to the people who inhabit them.
Our team of talented designers is dedicated to delivering exceptional projects within the hospitality industry. We understand the importance of brand identity and strive to create interiors that align with our clients’ vision and target audience.
With a strong foundation in project and budget management, we deliver quality results on time and within budget. Our expertise in the hospitality industry allows us to navigate the unique challenges that come with designing hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
We take pride in our ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with other stakeholders in the design process. Our approach is grounded in understanding brand values and target audience, ensuring that our interiors stand out and meet our clients’ expectations.
At 1H Studio, we are constantly pushing ourselves to expand our knowledge and skill set. Our recent venture into high-end residential projects has allowed us to bring fresh ideas and insights to our hospitality projects.
W are committed to developing strong relationships with our clients and helping them build brands that are unique, resistant to wear and tear, and economically viable. Our mission is to use our experience and industry relationships to help smaller hotels and short-term rentals thrive in the growing sharing economy.
Finally, we believe that interiors have a powerful impact on our well-being and the planet. Our focus is on creating spaces that are not just beautiful, but also contribute to the health and happiness of those who inhabit them.
At 1H Studio, we are not just designers, but collaborators, innovators, and visionaries. We strive to bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to every project, creating interiors that inspire and leave a lasting impression.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I’ve learned that it is never too late, and that consistency makes masters. That when someone really wants and dreams about being and becoming is achievable and knowing that the roads are never straight lines has giving me the resilience to stay strong.
Also, that honesty and transparency brought me stronger bonds than any incredible design I could make. That is important to be surrounded by people that is reliable and trustworthy is an asset that has no price.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.1hstudio.com
- Instagram: @1hstudio
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irene-rabinovici/
Image Credits
Vera Franceschi
Mayra Roubach
