April 2025 | VOL 15
REZZAN BENARDETE
words Onur Basturk
photos Bilal İmren
Rezzan Benardete, the creative mind behind Istanbul's most popular restaurant, Cozy, talks about her dream home project and her design essentials.
What drew you to interior design, and how did you get started in this field?
Design has always been a part of my life. Since childhood, my curiosity for details, eagerness to explore new ideas, and admiration for art naturally led me to this field. During my travels, studying different cultures' approaches to architecture and design deepened my passion. I began professionally with small-scale residential projects, and today, Rezzan Benardete Interiors stands out for its ability to bring character to spaces while balancing aesthetics and functionality. We design a diverse range of environments—from homes and offices to yachts and restaurants.
What are the key elements that define your signature style?
Naturalness, timelessness, and meticulous attention to detail! While I embrace a minimalist yet elegant approach, I always incorporate special details that add character to a space. These can be unique textures, high-quality materials, or artworks that complement the soul of the space. For me, simplicity is essential, but it should never feel cold or lifeless. The right use of materials and textures is indispensable in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
PERSONALIZATION IS KEY —IT COULD BE A CUSTOM-DESIGNED PIECE OF FURNITURE, A VINTAGE ITEM, OR AN ARTWORK THAT REFLECTS THE HOMEOWNER’S STORY
How does your design philosophy adapt to different types of projects, such as yachts, homes, and restaurants?
I approach each project with the understanding that every space has its own story and context, yet my core design philosophy remains consistent. When designing yachts, I focus on maximizing limited space while maintaining luxury and comfort. The challenge lies in efficiently organizing compact areas, so I emphasize multifunctional furniture, smart storage solutions, and custom designs that optimize every square inch. I also favor light color palettes to enhance the perception of spaciousness. For residential projects, my priority is to create warm, welcoming spaces that reflect my clients’ lifestyles, while in restaurants, my goal is to design environments that offer guests an unforgettable experience.
What are your must-haves in home design?
Three essential elements: natural materials, well-balanced lighting design, and personalized details that give a home its soul. I love enhancing a space’s warmth through natural stones, wood, and textiles. Personalization is key—it could be a custom-designed piece of furniture, a vintage item, or an artwork that reflects the homeowner’s story.
What did you focus on in your recent residential projects?
I aimed to create a timeless design by blending classic elements with modern touches. I combined pieces that stand the test of time with custom-designed furniture and accessories that bring a fresh, innovative feel. Like a modern artwork atop a classic console or a sculptural coffee table that adds character to a minimalist space.
EVERY DETAIL, FROM THE MENU TO DECOR, SHOULD REFLECT THE RESTAURANT’S IDENTITY
When designing a restaurant, what is your priority—atmosphere or functionality?
While elements are interconnected, my primary focus is always achieving harmony. Every detail, from the menu to the decor, should reflect the restaurant’s identity. Atmosphere is about the emotions guests feel the moment they step inside.
For your recent project, Cozy Restaurant, what kind of space did you envision?
For Cozy Restaurant, I envisioned a space where guests feel at home. I aimed to blend warmth with a touch of luxury by incorporating natural tones, soft textures, and warm lighting.
Which design movements or periods influence your work the most?
Modernism and the Bauhaus movement have significantly shaped my design approach. Additionally, the philosophy of Wabi-sabi inspires me to embrace the beauty of natural materials and imperfections. I also draw influence from the warm minimalism of Scandinavian design and the effortless elegance of Mediterranean architecture.
If you could design your dream project without limitations, what would it be?
My dream project would be a serene, timeless living space in Muğla (South Turkiye). I envision a home seamlessly integrated with the natural fabric of the Aegean—blending minimalism with sophistication, merging modern lines with the refined essence of traditional Turkish architecture. The space would be light-filled and airy, where soft neutrals and vibrant tones coexist harmoniously, and the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living nearly vanish.
