Gemma Galeno: The rising star

August 24, 2023
10:08 am

Introducing VIN + OMI, a dynamic duo of fashion designers who epitomize excellence and innovation in the modern fashion world. With their exceptional talent and unbridled creativity, VIN + OMI have quickly gained recognition and admiration within the industry, transforming runways into captivating works of art. Get ready to be mesmerized by their unique vision and extraordinary designs.

It is with immense pleasure and genuine admiration that I introduce a conversation with Gemma Galeno, a name that resonates with grace, artistry, and sheer talent in the realm of architecture and interior design. Amid the grandeur and intricacies of her creations, Gemma’s simplicity shines through, like a beacon of authenticity in a world so often filled with facades. She holds a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorite architects. There is an ineffable magic in her designs, a touch that transforms spaces into narratives, and an insight that merges form and function effortlessly. I am confident that Gemma is a rising star, destined for an illustrious future. The world of design awaits her next masterpiece with bated breath, and I am certain her journey will be nothing short of spectacular. We extend our deepest gratitude to Gemma for granting us a slice of her invaluable time for this interview. Here’s to the brilliance that is, and the brilliance yet to come.

As someone who wears multiple hats in the creative industry – being an architect, art director, building engineer, designer, and CGI artist – how do you manage to seamlessly blend these diverse skill sets to create unique and innovative projects? Where do you find the inspiration to bring together such a wide range of talents?

Believe that the diverse skill sets complement each other. The blend of these disciplines allows me to approach projects from multiple perspectives. Having a background in structural knowledge has helped me a lot during the design process. It helps me ensure that the designs are “better-prepared” for the construction team. As an art director and designer, I draw inspiration from diverse sources such as nature, art, history and cultures. This keeps my mind challenged and active! I always wanted to become a mangaka when I was younger. But my father didn’t let me… Knowing how to make renders allows me to effectively communicate and visualize the ideas. Through 3D and render programs, including AI, clients and stakeholders can experience the spaces before they are built, making the design process more engaging and informative.

The architecture and design industry is constantly evolving. In your opinion, what future trends and developments do you foresee in the field of architecture and design in the coming years?

I see, and hope this will be the norm, more and more projects turning more sustainable. In terms of materials, methods and techniques. More greenery is being placed around and in designs for instance. I can also see a growing interest in the collaboration with AI. I strongly think that sooner or later, this tool will be part of the architect’s tools set by default.

Throughout your career, you have worked on notable projects. Could you share some details about a recent project you are particularly proud of and would like to showcase to the public?

The project I’m most proud of is the flagship store of NOWATCH in Amsterdam. It was a renovation and transformation of a historical canal-house in Amsterdam, turned into a boutique shop. It was the smallest, quickest and yet most stressful and satisfying project I realized. Most of the other projects I worked on or I am still working on are in the building process. The NOWATCH store was designed and finished within 6 weeks. We had an amazing construction team here in the Netherlands that made this whole process smoother.

CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) has become increasingly relevant in the architecture and design realm, enabling innovative visualizations. How do you incorporate CGI into your projects, and what advantages does it offer in your creative process?

From the conceptual phase of the design, I tend to already make 3D’s of the spaces and materials in render programs. I use it to sketch, to analyze and study shapes, light and materials. To also finalize ideas and I use it as a communicative medium.

As an architect and designer, you have a unique perspective on the relationship between form and function. How do you balance aesthetics and practicality when working on a new design?

I literally close my eyes and imagine myself moving through the design. Using the spaces and objects and furniture in the design. I put myself as the user and forget about the designer-self. When something doesn’t work in the users “flow” I will change it. Even if it looked pleasent. Using 3D programs also helps you to train your mind to move through your designs. It is almost a meditative state with a visualization practice.

Collaboration is often crucial in creative industries. Can you tell us about a memorable collaborative project and how working with others influenced the outcome?

As previously mentioned, collaborating with the construction team for the NOWATCH store was a delightful experience. Despite the language barriers, we communicated through drawings and visualizations, a universal language! I was truly impressed by their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to achieving the finest outcome. Working with professionals from different sectors has always been enriching for me. This is an opportunity to expand the knowledge and curiosity in areas where I may not be as well-versed.

As someone with a diverse skill set, which aspect of your work do you find the most fulfilling, and how do you stay motivated to keep exploring different creative paths?

That’s a good one…. The end of a project, where you see all the ideas, all the drawings, all the dreams being realized… That’s very fulfilling. The motivation to explore different creative paths is always there. I’m a curious cat, wanting to know how to use every new tool just being released.

As a highly accomplished professional with a rich portfolio of work, we’re curious to know if you have any exciting future projects on the horizon. Could you give us a sneak peek into something you are currently working on or any upcoming ventures that you’d like to share with our audience?

I’m super excited about this one project. But it’s a top secret!!! I’m not allowed to say anything about it 😀 so stay tuned!