Tell us a little about yourself and your company. Give us the elevator pitch.

I’m an architect and designer at J ATTIA DESIGN, the company I founded in 2014. What makes us unique in comparison to other design companies is that we focus on architectural, interior and design consultation services, that being said, we don’t just design new spaces, we analyze the existing resources and necessities of each client and/or spaces so it can perform at its best. Having lived in three different countries, speaking three different languages, we have a multi-cultural background that allows us to understand and acknowledge diverse and special alternatives for each case. We approach each project uniquely, allowing our clients to experience a custom treatment.

What has been the most challenging moment in your career?

I think the most challenging moments for every person are when we have to make choices. Personally for me, it was when I had to make the decision of starting my own business. I was very young, but at the same time brave and eager to explore new possibilities with a big wish to grow professionally. The opportunities were laid on a silver tray and it was the now or never moment, I knew it was going to be a road full of bumps and obstacles, but most of all, plenty of learning experiences. Still to this day, I do not regret anything…I simply learn from the past and move on.

What was the most braggable moment in your life?

Recently, I’ve been selected to be featured in The Home Design and Remodeling Show as a designer. It’s an event that happens twice a year in South Florida, where a lot of local and national vendors showcase their products and they give away four spaces for renowned designers to be featured during the show. http://homeshows.net/designers.html

What is your biggest weakness? Biggest strength?

I would say that my weakness is to always want to help. Sometimes I get into a project when I have an extensive load of work, but at the same time my desire to help is also a strength, it makes people confident in my services. Fortunately, we have been able to successfully manage a few projects at a time.

What was the greatest lesson you’ve learned from a mistake?

Focus on what you know how to do, don’t try to be a super hero and offer services that you don’t specialize in. Grow professionally in your specialty…and leave the other services for those industry professionals. Basically, don’t try and do everything, focus on your strength and explode it.

What do you love most about what you do?

Nothing beats a smile on the clients faces after they get the final product. I think the best part of my job is being able to help others improve their lives through design, there’s no bigger satisfaction than when a client calls you and lets you know that what you did has changed their life. That’s when you know that what you’re doing is worth the time and effort.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Measure twice, cut once. It applies to everything, every single choice that you make. Think about it and analyze the different possibilities, it’s worth taking longer to decide how to do it, but do it right the first time. It really saves a lot of time, issues and money in the future.

How do you define happiness?

In one word “balance”, the rest I’ll leave for your imagination.

What book are you currently reading?

A novel, it’s called “The Shelter”.

What’s a personal habit that you believe contributes to your success?

Always inquire, ask every single question that comes to your mind, don’t assume. It’s better to ask and have everything very clear, rather than to make a mistake.

Have you collaborated? If not, would you like to?

Yes, we try to work with different professionals in their field to make work easier and pleasant for everyone, it feels very good when you work with someone that knows what they’re doing.

How have you either benefited or would like to benefit from collaboration?

Definitely, every resource counts and makes the experience richer. Learning from others is always an option