Inside the Studio with Michelle Mugrabi

Discover the world of Mugrabi Michelle, a talented designer who carries her studio with her wherever she goes. Based in Uruguay, her studio is a tranquil and harmonious space within her home, customized to suit her creative needs. From essential equipment to her guilty pleasure of working in slippers, Michelle surrounds herself with inspiring artwork and personal touches that focus her creativity. When she encounters a down day, she takes a moment to breathe and regroup. Michelle’s studio reflects her passion for design and her commitment to sustainability. You can shop the collections and hear about Michelle’s unique vision.

DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIVE WORKSPACE

In recent years, I have learned to take my studio with me wherever I go. While my main location is in Uruguay. My studio is a special place within my own house. It is a modified bedroom that now functions as a studio space tailored to my needs. It is a part of my house that has been transformed into a studio. I had to make modifications to a bedroom to ensure it could accommodate my workspace requirements.

WHO REGULARLY VISITS?

Friends and family occasionally visit, but not to the studio. The studio is a private space for me where I conduct not only business-related activities but also indulge in my morning and daily rituals. For example, one of the essential items in my studio is my yoga mat. I meet clients virtually or at other suitable locations within the city.

COURTESY OF MICHELLE MUGRABI

WHICH SONGS FUEL YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS

"(Just like) starting over” by Beatles,", "Sal" by Gustavo Cerati, and any song from Enya.

WHAT SUSTAINABILITY MEASURES DO YOU PRACTICE IN YOUR ART?

I practice reusing, reducing, and recycling. For instance, I use recycled paper for sketching initial ideas and printing technical sheets. The first product samples are also made using leftover materials. 

COURTESY OF MICHELLE MUGRABI

GIVE US A GLIMPSE INTO THE ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT, INTRIGUING FURNITURE, AND INSPIRING ARTWORK THAT ADORN YOUR WORKSPACE

My studio is equipped with a computer, a larger screen for sketching, a sketchbook, pencils, a spacious table, various materials, a shelf with decorations and samples, and of course, flowers. In addition to standard furniture, my studio has a yoga mat, a crystal singing bowl, artwork, and family pictures. 

COURTESY OF MICHELLE MUGRABI

WHAT ARE THE OPTIMAL CONDITIONS FOR YOUR CREATIVE FLOW?

I need a quiet and tranquil space to work optimally. It should be tidy, and the lighting is crucial, depending on the stage of the design process. The vibe and atmosphere should be serene and harmonious. 

DO YOU HAVE A QUOTE THAT CAPTURES THE ESSENCE OF YOUR WORK ETHIC?

"Work until you no longer have to introduce yourself”

COURTESY OF MICHELLE MUGRABI

HOW IS YOUR TEAM COMPOSED?

I work alone, but I collaborate with various artisans who have their own specialized roles. For instance, they handle production and work in their respective spaces. 

WHAT DO YOU EAT IN A DAY?

I strive for a balanced diet. My day usually begins with chamomile tea, which accompanies me until bedtime. For breakfast, I have a banana or vegan pancakes. Lunch and dinner vary depending on the day. 

COURTESY OF MICHELLE MUGRABI

DO YOU HAVE ANY GUILTY PLEASURES?

One of my guilty pleasures is working with my slippers on.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU'RE HAVING A DOWN DAY AT THE OFFICE?

During a down day at the office, I take a moment to breathe and collect myself. 

DO YOU HAVE ANY PET PEEVES OR HABITS YOU STRIVE TO OVERCOME IN YOUR WORKSPACE?

I don't have any particular pet peeves, but I do have a habit of sometimes being messy. However, I make a conscious effort to maintain tidiness in my workspace. One habit I have is the need to turn off my computer and monitor and tidy up my desk before finishing the workday. It helps me create a sense of closure and organization.

Shop all of Mugrabi Michelle's collections on Not Just A Label