Interior designer Fabian Freytag is making waves in the design world with his refreshingly personal approach to creating living spaces. In a recent episode of the podcast "Frisch an die Arbeit" (Fresh to Work), the Berlin-based designer shared his philosophy that homes should serve as protective sanctuaries tailored to individual needs rather than showcases for possessions. Freytag argues that people should not be constantly confronted with everything they own, suggesting that strategic design choices can create more peaceful and authentic environments. His approach emphasizes understanding the psychological aspects of space and how our surroundings affect daily well-being. At 41, Freytag brings both academic training and practical experience to his growing practice.

Freytag's journey into interior design began while he was still studying architecture at the University of the Arts, where he landed his first commission before even graduating. His career accelerated unexpectedly during the 2008 global financial crisis, when international investors flocked to Berlin's real estate market seeking bargains. These foreign buyers needed their new properties furnished and were surprisingly open to working with emerging talent. "They trusted even beginners like me. I wouldn't have gotten commissions this quickly in any other city," Freytag reflects. This unusual opportunity allowed him to build an impressive portfolio rapidly and establish his reputation during a time when many industries were contracting. The experience taught him valuable lessons about adaptability and seizing unexpected opportunities.

The designer's core message to clients is deceptively simple: resist the temptation to buy what everyone else owns. He believes that following mainstream trends leads to generic spaces that lack soul and fail to support genuine well-being. Instead, Freytag recommends specific exercises to uncover authentic preferences. He advises clients to browse online auction houses and classified advertisements while taking notes about which decades and styles consistently appeal to them. Additionally, he suggests analyzing environments where they feel most comfortable—whether friends' apartments, favorite restaurants, or memorable hotels—and identifying the specific elements that create that sense of ease. This analytical process helps homeowners develop a clear, personal vision rather than imitating magazine spreads.

Freytag offers concrete recommendations based on his years of experience. He enthusiastically encourages clients to embrace colorful walls, large area rugs that anchor spaces, and even opulent bathroom designs that treat the room with the same importance as living areas. The designer is particularly outspoken about his dislike of open shelving, which he believes inevitably becomes cluttered with items better left hidden from daily view. "Shelves basically just get filled with junk that you should really hide away," he states bluntly. His holistic approach emphasizes creating a cohesive atmosphere throughout the entire home, ensuring every room contributes to an overall sense of comfort and personal expression rather than following rigid design rules.

During the podcast conversation, Freytag also addressed how artificial intelligence is beginning to transform the interior design industry, though he maintains that human creativity and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable. He discussed his own hobbies and how they fuel his creative process, suggesting that designers must nurture their own inspiration to serve clients effectively. The conversation revealed a thoughtful professional who sees design as deeply connected to human psychology and the fundamental need for spaces that reflect and support our identities. His insights suggest that successful design requires understanding both aesthetic principles and the emotional relationships people form with their environments.

"Frisch an die Arbeit" publishes new episodes every other Tuesday and features a rotating team of hosts including Daniel Erk, Hannah Scherkamp, and Elise Landschek. The podcast covers various professional topics and can be reached at frischandiearbeitzeit.de for listener feedback and questions. Freytag's episode provides valuable perspective for anyone looking to create a more personal and comfortable living space, regardless of budget constraints. His emphasis on individuality over conformity offers a refreshing alternative to the consumer pressure of constantly following design trends, making his advice accessible and practical for homeowners at any stage of life.