Conversations with Dila Ozyazici

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dila Ozyazici

Hi Dila, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in Turkey, where my passion for design and storytelling through spaces began to take shape. This passion led me to pursue a degree in architecture, where I explored how form and function can create memorable experiences. Eager to challenge myself further, I moved to the U.S. to pursue my master’s at the Boston Architectural College. Studying in Boston was an eye-opening journey — I balanced academics with hands-on work, which gave me a solid foundation in both design and real-world application.

After completing my master’s, I moved to Los Angeles, drawn by its dynamic design scene and endless creative possibilities. I immersed myself in hospitality design, working on hotel renovations and restaurant concepts that allowed me to blend architecture with memorable guest experiences. I also had the opportunity to work on high-end residential projects in LA, where I refined my eye for detail and luxury design — an area I’m excited to explore further as a potential career path.

Along the way, I developed a growing interest in vintage furniture, particularly mid-century modern pieces. I’m now in the process of launching an online shop that curates these timeless designs, combining my love for storytelling with a new entrepreneurial venture.

My journey has been a balance of creativity, exploration, and adaptability — and I’m excited to see where this evolving path takes me next.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all. While I’ve always had a passion for traveling and meeting new people at every destination — something that has enriched my life and broadened my perspective — living abroad has come with its own set of challenges. Being far from family and lifelong friends has been the hardest part of this journey. As much as I’ve grown personally and professionally, there’s always that feeling of missing out on the little moments back home. Balancing the excitement of building a life in new places with the longing for familiar connections has been a constant challenge, but it’s also taught me resilience and the value of meaningful relationships.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an architect and interior designer with a strong focus on hospitality design, high-end residential projects, and creative storytelling through spaces. I specialize in crafting unique environments that not only look beautiful but also evoke a sense of experience and connection. Over the years, I’ve worked on hotel renovations, restaurant concepts, and high-end homes in Los Angeles, where I’ve honed my ability to balance functionality with striking aesthetics.

What I’m most proud of is my commitment to incorporating sustainability into every project. Whether it’s selecting eco-conscious materials, integrating energy-efficient systems, or designing with longevity in mind, I strive to create spaces that are not only visually impactful but also environmentally responsible. This dedication to sustainability has become a defining aspect of my work, ensuring that my designs contribute positively to both the built environment and the communities they serve.

What sets me apart is my versatility and curiosity. Beyond architecture, I’m also passionate about curating vintage furniture, particularly mid-century modern pieces, which adds another layer of design sensitivity to my work. This ability to move seamlessly between disciplines — from designing spaces to curating pieces that tell a story — allows me to approach projects with a unique, well-rounded perspective.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is spending a summer at a camp by the Aegean coast. I remember the excitement of meeting new people and forming friendships that felt so effortless and fun. But what made that summer even more unforgettable was learning fencing. It was such a unique experience — the focus, strategy, and quick reflexes it required fascinated me. I loved the thrill of trying something completely different while being surrounded by the beauty of the coast. That summer taught me how stepping out of my comfort zone could lead to unexpected passions and lifelong memories.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dilaece/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dila-e-ozyazici-9b0437ba/