Aya Rikabi sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast. 

“Humans are social, so we need these intentional places of gathering to allow people to really talk to each other. There are people that you pass by every day, but you don’t really ever say “hi” though. So, how does design flip the script?” Aya Rikabi

In this Student Spotlight episode, fourth-year interior design student Aya Rikabi reflects on her experience in Ohio State’s design program and the ideas that shaped her capstone project, Our Village. Designed for a former fire station in Franklinton, Ohio, the project proposes a community and resource center for single parents that brings together local organizations, support services, and gathering spaces under one roof. Aya discusses how interviews, surveys, and co-design methods helped inform the project, and how feedback from community members influenced decisions about programming, spatial organization, and atmosphere. The conversation also explores her path into design, the role of mentorship and collaboration throughout her education, and the realities of studio culture, from late nights in the studio to the excitement of critiques. 

Throughout the episode, Aya shares the importance of community, both as a theme in her work and as a source of support during her time as a student. Looking ahead, she shares that one of design’s most important responsibilities is creating opportunities for people to connect, build empathy, and engage more meaningfully with one another.

This episode is part of the Student Spotlight mini-series. During the summer, we sit down with students at Ohio State DESIGN, giving them a chance to share their experiences and talk about the ideas that inspire them.

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.