The Journey of Parlak +
At Parlak +, the journey began not so long ago, yet it feels like a culmination of a lifetime of experiences, dreams, and hopes. I’m Meltem Parlak, the founder and lead designer of Parlak +. This venture reflects my journey shaped by diverse cultural influences, an unwavering passion for design, and a deep belief in the transformative power of collaboration.
Cultural Roots and a Passion for Design
Born in Germany, raised in Turkey, and now living in New York City, I’ve had the unique opportunity to immerse myself in rich and distinct cultures. This diverse upbringing broadened my perspective and instilled a curiosity that has become the cornerstone of my design philosophy. From an early age, I have always been open-minded, curious, and eager to learn — traits that naturally led me to pursue a career in design.
My choice to study industrial design was simple and compelling: I wanted to help people and bring joy to their lives. This decision went beyond choosing a career; it was about using my passion to make a tangible difference to enhance everyday life. My goal has always been to design with empathy, creating meaningful experiences that resonate on a deeper, personal level.
The Transformative Power of Collaboration
In the early stages of my professional career, I had the privilege of collaborating with design luminaries like Ayse Birsel, co-founder of Birsel + Seck; Leah Caplan, founder of Leah Caplan & Co.; and Seda Evis, co-founder of Value Systems International. Their mentorship profoundly shaped my identity as a designer. Each project we tackled, and every challenge we overcame deepened my belief that great design is never the work of one person alone. It’s the result of shared ideas, diverse perspectives, and a collective drive to create something meaningful.
These collaborations taught me that the most innovative solutions arise when multiple voices contribute and that design’s true power lies in its ability to bring people together. This realization was a pivotal moment for me, planting the seed for what would eventually become Parlak +. I knew that I wanted to create a space where collaboration wasn’t just a value but the very foundation of our work. The “+” in Parlak + is a testament to this belief — symbolizing the exponential possibilities that emerge when we combine our talents, insights, and passions.
The Birth of Parlak +
The decision to establish Parlak + was a natural progression of my journey. It was born from the desire to create a design consultancy where diverse perspectives meet to push boundaries and create innovative solutions. Parlak + is not just about delivering exceptional design; it’s about fostering an environment where collaboration is key, and where every project becomes an opportunity to create something extraordinary.
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Lifelong learning has always been a guiding principle in my life. Every day presents an opportunity to discover something new, delve deeper into a subject, or approach a problem from a different angle. This mindset is deeply embedded in the culture of Parlak +. We believe that continuous learning fuels creativity and innovation, enabling us to tackle complex challenges with fresh perspectives.
A Venue for Great Minds
At Parlak +, we are committed to creating designs that resonate deeply and have a lasting impact. Our journey is ongoing, driven by a passion for excellence and a desire to collaborate with great minds. We aim to make Parlak + a place where ideas intersect, where creativity flourishes, and where meaningful designs are born.
I am deeply thankful for the support and collaboration of our clients and partners. Together, we are transforming challenges into opportunities and turning dreams into reality. Connect with Parlak + and be part of our journey.
Let’s create extraordinary designs that shape the future, one thoughtful project at a time.
