A creative journey between Istanbul and Milan with Ruya Akyol Studio: where functionality, craftsmanship, and contemporary living meet
Born in Istanbul in 1991, Ruya Akyol is a designer who bridges East and West, heritage and future. After studying at Istanbul Technical University, she moved to Milan to refine her approach at both Politecnico and Domus Academy. There, she honed her skills in Claudio Bellini’s studio before moving to Paris to work with the legendary Philippe Starck.
In 2021, she founded her own practice, Ruya Akyol Studio, based between Milan and Istanbul. The studio made its official debut at SaloneSatellite 2025, presenting a collection that reflects her many influences: minimalist design, Mediterranean craftsmanship, Italian elegance, and Nordic functionality.
A new way of living: compact, fluid, iconic
Ruya Akyol Studio’s debut collection is designed for compact yet dynamic living, where each object serves multiple purposes. In an age where home is also an office, a retreat, and a social or creative space, design must be hybrid and versatile—without sacrificing aesthetics, comfort, or quality.
With one eye on the future and deep roots in tradition, each piece tells a story. Local materials, artisanal manufacturing, and pure forms come together in a collection that speaks the universal language of contemporary design.
Baia: the sofa that works with you
Baia is the heart of the modern living room. Its flowing shape combines seating and a multifunctional desk, ideal for smart working, reading, or relaxing. The curved lines and oak wood base reflect the balance between elegance and practicality. This is not just a sofa—it redefines the space around it.
Signe: a signature of comfort
Inspired by the gesture of a handwritten signature, Signe is a lounge chair formed from one continuous line that shapes its entire structure. Sculptural yet lightweight, it blends structural ingenuity with poetic form, offering elegant comfort and a bold visual identity.
Desen: ornament becomes function
The Desen tables are born from research into historical ornaments, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean tile patterns. Available in three different heights, they can be arranged dynamically to suit any space. The carved base reduces weight without compromising structure, while locally sourced Turkish stones ensure sustainability and authenticity.
Verto: modularity in motion
A storage unit and console in one, Verto uses repeating modules and angled panels to create rhythm and structure. Named after the Latin vertere (“to turn”), it adapts and transforms easily. Every panel is hand-crafted with precision, resulting in a piece that’s both functional and visually striking.
Pasaj: the arch, reimagined
Pasaj—meaning “passage” in Turkish—takes inspiration from the iconic archway. Its intersecting legs create a sculptural silhouette. Made entirely of solid wood and topped with a leather seat, Pasaj embodies natural materials, timeless style, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Sedi: cushions that become sculpture
Soft, stackable, and artistic, the Sedi stool evokes the natural layering of cushions. Its four stacked layers provide visual softness and ergonomic comfort. Hidden wheels allow it to move with ease, while luxurious Kutnia fabric adds refined texture and subtle rhythm to the design.
Nazar: the rug that protects
Woven line by line by Anatolian craftswomen, the Nazar rug blends traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Inspired by the cultural symbol meant to protect from the evil eye, Nazar reinterprets tradition through form rather than motif, resulting in a modern icon rooted in history. Made from naturally dyed local wool, it offers both spiritual depth and visual sophistication.
Ruya Akyol Studio: a living, breathing aesthetic
Every piece by Ruya Akyol Studio is an exploration of form and function, art and utility. Far from passing trends, the designer has created a personal, recognizable language—where objects are made to last, to evolve, to speak with the space and the people who inhabit it.
Blending the rigor of design with the freedom of imagination, Ruya Akyol is a fresh and authentic voice in the international design scene. A name worth remembering—and signing.
