Founded by visionary creators Jack Sulkin and Gabriel Askenazi, SULKIN ASKENAZI is a boundary-pushing design studio redefining the landscape of contemporary architecture and interior design. Their approach is bold, fresh, and disruptive, creating spaces that challenge convention and ignite emotion. They specialize in crafting environments that seamlessly blend architecture, interior design, custom furniture, and art to deliver immersive, multisensory experiences. Driven by a fearless commitment to innovation, SULKIN ASKENAZI thrives on reimagining the ordinary. Each project is a canvas for bold ideas, where functionality meets artistry to create designs that are not only visually stunning but profoundly meaningful.
(Image above: Jack Sulkin and Gabriel Askenazi | Image by Mariana Achach)
Sutura by Sulkin Azkenazi | Photo by Ricardo de la Concha
When you were a kid, what did you dream of becoming? Did any of those childhood ambitions lead you to where you are today?
G.A: I was obsessed with worlds, imaginary ones, physical ones, digital ones. I didn’t know it was called “design” yet, but I was already trying to reorganize space, clothes, and toys into new systems. I guess architecture was the adult version of building chaos beautifully.
Where and what did you study?
J.S & G.A: We studied Architecture at Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City. It gave us the tools, but our real education came from questioning those same tools.
Was there a specific turning point or experience when you realized that design was your true calling?
J.S: Yes, when I realized design could be narrative, not just structure. That it could say something about who we are and how we move. That’s when it stopped being a career and became a language
Fuega 14 by Sulkin Askenazi | Photo by Mariana Achach
Give us some context about where you live: How long you’ve been there and how does it influence your work?
I’ve been fortunate enough to fulfill my dream of creating an office space in a Brooklyn brownstone. My workspace is on the parlor floor, with my living area just above it. For me,this setup is not only convenient, it’s a lifestyle. I prefer not to draw a strict line between work and leisure, as my job and the constant search for new inspiration truly energize me.
Was there a moment when you realized you wanted to be a designer? If so, what was it?
I began studying architecture at a technical university in Germany. While enrolled there, I met some inspiring people from a local art school that offered product design classes. Intrigued by the scale of product design and the opportunity to work more hands-on, I decided to enroll there as well, in parallel with my architecture studies. I’ve never regretted having both disciplines in my academic background.
Which of your projects or products are you most proud? Why?
Having worked for the office of Shelton Mindel, I had been responsible for the development of 2 product lines for Waterworks. Opus and .25. As part of their general collection I sculpted and drew in 3D the .25 tub, that till today is still a bestseller for the firm and it is now over 20 years old. On the architectural side I still love the airy Showroom project we designed for AGNONA within a Matteo Thun building in Milan. It is now 10 years ago and still feels so fresh and contemporary.
Privada 14 by Sulkin Askenazi | Photo by Alejandro X.García S.
What are your favorite materials with which to work? Why?
I don’t really have a favorite material. My creative work in fashion retail at Peter Marino exposed me to so many! And I think there is beauty in any material if modeled and detailed according to the quality of the material. Using surprising/unusual juxtapositions of materials can be an exciting aspect in the design approach.
What piece of advice do you wish someone had given you at the start of your career?
Believe in Mentorship; try to learn first in internships and full-time engagements with the best in the field, that also have a good business sense and then, try sooner than later your own thing.
What is the most pressing issue in the interior design field today?
I believe our environment is the most pressing concern today. Design should at least acknowledge this reality, avoiding unnecessary waste in production and shipping, while still remaining sculptural, functional, and poetic. In doing so, it can truly enrich our lives.
What’s now? (What are you currently working on: A new project? Experimenting with new materials, techniques, or approaches? Learning about something?)
Alongside managing my full-service interior design firm and consulting for a range of retail clients, I’m now developing a residential furniture line and exploring various channels to bring it to market. There’s plenty to learn as I identify the right audience, but I’m genuinely enjoying the entire journey. Another goal surely is to use these intelligently produced furniture pieces in our residential projects.
What’s next? (What’s in your future: Are you anticipating an upcoming event? Going to start work on a project? Planning a trip? Working on a particular dream or goal?)
Since my office is set up bi-continental, I’m working to strengthen my foothold in Germany by connecting with new clients. It would be a dream to work with more Americans who are buying property in Germany, especially in Berlin, and support them with renovations. I’m also planning a long-awaited trip to Egypt in January to immerse myself in another culture. Of course, inspiration can be found anywhere.
What is your favorite movie? And your favorite band or/and song?
‘Interiors’ by Woody Allen, I like to watch dramas and furthermore, am impressed by the immaculate attention to detail and style.
If I had to choose a music artist, it would be Luther Vandross. And ‘Never too Much’
