Photography by @william.jess.laird.
Since meeting on the first day of their freshman year in the furniture design program at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Nick Ozemba and Felicia Hung have gone on to redefine the possibilities of lighting through the assortment of graceful and eye-catching pieces offered by their studio, In Common With.
Recently, the duo launched Quarters, a space that transcends the term “concept”. Described as “a place to gather and a world to explore”, Quarters is divided into stately rooms (kitchen/pantry, bedroom, study, etc.) that boast a selection of In Common With’s dramatic and distinct lighting alongside gorgeously restored furniture items, unique collaborative decor touches, and stunning floral arrangements.
Found within a grand Tribeca loft, the Quarters project affords Ozemba the ability to showcase his prowess in interior design; he entered the field after graduating from RISD, while Hung went on to product design. Eventually they came together to found In Common With in 2018; a contemporary-minded studio that elevates its pieces by honouring craft practices including the centuries-old fazzoletto technique – a Venetian glassworking method which gives a range of their lighting designs a dynamic flared effect.
We caught up with Ozemba and Hung after the successful launch of Quarters last month to find out more about their newest labour of love, and how they keep their creatives juices flowing.
The Study at Quarters features In Common With’s stunning new Saga Pendant Duo. Photography by @william.jess.laird.
Do you have a first memory of the feeling you had when you saw a beautifully designed space or object?
Nick Ozemba: Experiencing Casa Pedregal was not my first encounter with a beautifully designed space, but it left a lasting impression on me. Luis Barragán's work there, with its vibrant colors, thoughtful use of light and shadow, and meticulous detail, created a deep emotional impact. His designs at Casa Pedregal harmonize ruggedness and tranquility, inspiring me to bring a similar depth and character to my own projects. They show that true design goes beyond aesthetics, creating spaces that resonate with the human spirit.
What's your favorite way to problem-solve when working on a project?
Nick Ozemba and Felicia Hung: We solve problems through collaboration and iteration. We believe in open dialogue between designers and craftsmen to explore different ideas, followed by hands-on experimentation in our studio. This process, driven by teamwork and a shared vision, allows us to refine our designs until we get the result we want. We find that working together not only solves problems but also makes our creative journey more fulfilling.
In Common With’s Gemma Sconce is a sight to behold. Photography by @william.jess.laird.
How do you invigorate your creativity?
Nick Ozemba and Felicia Hung: We invigorate our creativity through a mix of exploration and reflection. We keep our minds open to learning new techniques and staying curious. Taking regular breaks and fostering a collaborative studio culture help keep our creative energy high.
What drew you to using the fazzoletto technique in your pieces?
Nick Ozemba and Felicia Hung: The fazzoletto technique is an intricate and delicate process. It aligns perfectly with our commitment to craftsmanship and detail, but also our systems-based design methodology. This technique allows us to create unique, organic shapes that bring a touch of elegance and fluidity to our designs, each not made in a mold and one-of-a-kind. It’s the balance between tradition and innovation that makes fazzoletto so compelling for us. We are inspired by its history and the way it allows for personal expression in each piece we create with it at In Common With.
The striking Helena Floor Lamp can be found in the Great Room at Quarters alongside meticulously restored furniture, thoughtful decor accents, and more of In Common With’s lighting. Photography by @william.jess.laird.
What's the vision for Quarters?
Nick Ozemba and Felicia Hung: Quarters serves as both a retail space and a dynamic and immersive space that embodies the spirit of community, craftsmanship, and collaborative design. It merges the intimacy of a private home with the functionality of a concept store, all set within an 8,000-square-foot historic loft in Tribeca. The aim is to create a living, evolving environment where design and creativity come together in an ever-changing tapestry of inspiration. Quarters offers everything from unique furniture and lighting to curated art pieces, pantry items, and soon a bar. It’s a space that invites visitors to explore and engage with the creative process, fostering an ongoing dialogue between designers, materials, and the community. Quarters is about pushing the boundaries of design and creating a place where every visit offers something new and inspiring.