Here, we ask designers to take a selfie and give us an inside look at their life.

Age: 36 

Occupation: Founder and principal of 22RE.

Instagram: @22re_22re

Hometown: Los Angeles.

Studio location: Los Angeles.

Describe what you make: I’m an architect and designer. I work on buildings, interiors, and products, from creative conception all the way to the production of a custom ashtray. 

The most important thing you’ve designed to date: My wife and I just had our first child, so I’d have to say the crib for my son.

Describe the problem your work solves: As a true modernist, I’m always looking to design for a higher quality of life. Many spaces lean either heavily towards aesthetics or functionality, while I try to find the balance of both. 

Describe the project you are working on now: In addition to private residential properties, I’m working on the new Departamento store in Los Angeles, which will open next month. I’ve also collaborated with Akila for the design of their new flagship store in LA, also opening in May.

A new or forthcoming project we should know about: I’m developing a few pieces of furniture, which will hopefully launch as a collection later this fall. There are a few more projects that we’re working on at the studio—office spaces, residences, and more shops for Malbon and Akila, which will likely be completed by the end of this year, too. 

What you absolutely must have in your studio: Espresso and sparkling water. 

What you do when you’re not working: I’m always working because I’m fortunate enough to love what I do. Other than that, I like to surf and hang out with my family. 

Sources of creative envy: Tobia and Carlo Scarpa, John Lautner, Gae Aulenti, Rem Koolhaas, Maria Pergay, Tadao Ando, Shiro Kuramata, and Philippe Starck

The distraction you want to eliminate: Coffee. I use it as a way to take a break during the day and I end up drinking too much of it.

Concrete or marble? Travertine.

High-rise or townhouse? Townhouse.

Remember or forget? Remember.

Aliens or ghosts? Aliens.

Dark or light? Light.