Insightful Interview: Dror Benshetrit

There are not many folks who can pull off being recognized by a solely their first name. Of course there is Prince, Elvis and the likes… but there’s a new name rolling of people’s lips: Dror. Dror Benshetrit to be more specific. The Tel Aviv born, New York based artist has an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses product design, architecture, interior design and art direction. His range spans from the creation of a sunken luxury eco-resort in Abu Dhabi made to look like an undulating green carpet to his folded, felt peacock chair, to re-vamping the New York’s old Soho Gucci store into an artistic Synagogue. No matter what the material, the man is a master at capturing the nature of movement and special relationships.

1. Throughout your career, which project are you most proud of?

 My projects feel like my children. Their creations are my life experiences. I love them all. If I were to choose one over the other, it would be in respect to the lessons it taught me. But it is also important to reconcile experiences for you don’t always realize what gives to you and how it may affect the others

2. The design of a recently completed project of yours, the Soho Synagogue, is “outside the box” when compared to traditional Synagogues. What are your thoughts on the importance of design in a place of worship?

I think it is important to reflect on every life experience and even more so the most unique ones. I had never had a chance to reflect on the space and the environment of a spiritual place. I usually get a chance to think and design commercial or residential places. It was a such wonderful experience for me to create a public space that calls out for spiritual and communal#individual connections rather than a commercial space.

3. Did you ever dream of being anything besides an Architect/Designer?

I am an artist rather and it always felt natural to me to express myself by creating. I can hardly see myself doing anything else.

4. Has either of your parents influenced your views on design and architecture?

Yes very much. By knowing nothing about it (LOL) My parents are extremely talented. My dad has a brilliant scientific mind and mom has an incredible sense of decorating and styling but they have never created anything except our home and us. I was always thankful to them for allowing me to practice my passion and not voice any opinion. Their support was reassuring and empowering. I think if they were artists I would have been influenced by them and it would have affected my own creativity and career. I am glad I had a free field in which I have been able play and grow independently.

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