How Maria-Alejandra’s fascination with the built environment and human behaviors inspire her art

Maria-Alejandra is a designer and architect from Panama who now works in Miami, FL. In this interview, she talks about how her experiences designing spaces, furniture, and products have shaped her thoughts about design. She also opens up about the early influences that sparked her passion for creativity and how she strives to create designs that are not only beautiful but also useful and impactful in people’s everyday lives.

Maria-Alejandra is a Panamanian multidisciplinary designer and architect based in Miami, FL, USA, recognized for her expertise in interiors, furniture, and product design. She combines a deep understanding of architectural principles with meticulous attention to detail and a passion for innovative materials and techniques to create designs that resonate globally.

Curiosity and a willingness to explore drive her creativity. Growing up in a creative environment, she developed a deep appreciation for artistic expression and the power of design to shape the world. She is passionate about positively impacting people’s lives through innovative design, creating spaces, objects, and experiences that are both visually appealing and meaningful. She strives to create harmonious and impactful designs, drawing inspiration from observing daily life and the interactions between people and their environments.

1. Maria-Alejandra, your journey spans architecture, interior, furniture, and product design. How has this diverse experience shaped your overall design philosophy?

My journey has taught me to balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, ensuring that every piece I create is visually appealing, practical, and environmentally responsible. This multidisciplinary background allows me to draw from various fields, fostering innovation and a deeper understanding of how different design elements interact to create cohesive, impactful spaces and objects.

Balancing durability, utility, and beauty involves a meticulous approach to every project.

Maria-Alejandra

2. Growing up in Panama and being introduced to art by your mother sounds incredibly inspiring. Can you tell us more about how these early influences have impacted your creative process?

Thanks to my mother’s influence as a sculptor, art and creativity have been woven into my life since childhood. Growing up surrounded by her work, I deeply appreciated art’s tactile and expressive nature. This early exposure sparked a relentless curiosity and a passion for experimenting with different materials and techniques, fueling my creative process. This foundation has shaped my approach to art, allowing me to blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative methods seamlessly.

3. Your work is driven by a fascination with how objects in our environment influence human behaviour. Can you share a project where this idea was particularly central?

For a product I designed, Prep.Store.Go., I was particularly focused on how design could influence daily routines and behaviours. The concept aimed to streamline the process of liquid meal preparation and storage, recognizing the impact that well-designed tools and systems can have in everyday life. By creating an intuitive, aesthetically pleasing system, I wanted to highlight how thoughtful design can transform practical routines into more enjoyable and seamless experiences.

4. You mentioned following the Vitruvian Virtues of Architecture: Utilitas, Firmitas, and Venustas. How do you balance durability, utility, and beauty in your designs?

Balancing durability, utility, and beauty involves a meticulous approach to every project. I start by defining a design’s core function and purpose, ensuring that it meets practical needs effectively—this is the utility. Next, I consider materials and construction methods that will ensure longevity and resilience, addressing durability. Finally, I infuse the design with aesthetic elements that resonate emotionally and visually, ensuring it is pleasing and impactful. By integrating these three principles from the outset, I create functional, enduring, and visually captivating designs, achieving a harmonious balance that stands the test of time.

The “Donuts” series in ceramics is a collection that represents a deep exploration of form and texture, where each piece is meticulously shaped from porcelain.

Maria-Alejandra

5.  Your MAIPdesigns studio focuses on unique, one-of-a-kind items. What are some of your favorite pieces or projects you’ve created through this studio?

The “Donuts” series in ceramics is a collection that represents a deep exploration of form and texture, where each piece is meticulously shaped from porcelain. The series plays with both organic and geometric forms, reflecting a balance between fluidity and structure. The latest decision to showcase the raw beauty of the porcelain rather than using vibrant glazes highlights the material’s intrinsic elegance. This series allows me to experiment with composition and surface texture and provides a platform to evoke emotion through simple yet profound design.

6. You have been involved in many exhibitions and have received numerous awards. What has been one of the most memorable moments or recognitions in your career so far, and why?

One of the most memorable moments in my career was receiving Honorable Mentions from both the IDA Design Awards and the European Product Design Award for Prep. Store. Go. These recognitions were particularly significant because they validated my dedication to pushing the boundaries of design and affirmed the impact of my work on a global stage. Each accolade celebrated the craftsmanship and innovation behind my designs and reminded me of the journey and growth I’ve experienced as a designer. They are milestones that inspire me to continue exploring new ideas and refining my craft.

Maria-Alejandra’s design work shows how much she believes in the power of creativity to make a difference in the world. By carefully balancing usefulness, durability, and beauty, she creates designs that stand out and make a real impact. Her deep love for art and constant curiosity keep pushing her to develop new and inspiring ideas. To learn more about Maria, click the following links to visit her profile.