DEFINING HOME
Patrick Hubbard ’23, MFA in Photography and Image-making, filmed Aksel Rytsola ’22, MA Interior Design, in action. Rytsola answered some questions for us so we could get to know him better. Sometimes our students make it tough to choose what to include in their newsletter profiles and Aksel was no exception! We wish we could ask him more!
Where do you call home?
I have two different cities that I consider home. One is Rome and the other is Helsinki. I grew up in Rome, I think it’s the most beautiful city in the world and every time I go there I feel something that I can’t feel anywhere else in the world, it’s hard to put those emotions into words. My family and closest friends are in Helsinki, so I have a very strong and tangible connection there. Eventually I think I will find my way back to both of them, but they will always be there for me so while I have the time and possibility I intend to see and experience as much as I possibly can abroad.
What inspired you to join the PCA community?
PCA’s international presence and interdisciplinary education strategy were prospects that truly enticed me. Additionally, my interest for studying at PCA were further bolstered by the new perspectives on design that the school offered. For my personal process it was important to enter an academic environment were critical thinking and being proactive was fundamental.
What are you hoping to learn from your degree program?
I entered the Master’s program of Interior Design this fall mainly because I strongly believed that, in order to make a difference in the field in the future, I had to broaden my vision, experience a new way of doing things and dig deep. I was confident that this program and the city of Paris, with its historical, cultural and creative presence, would provide me just that.
What’s your dream job?
My dream is to one day manage and lead an international Interior Architecture practice. Work on different projects in diverse locations and contexts. Make a difference in the field, inspire others and, most importantly, improve the quality of people’s everyday lives.
What about Paris excites you the most?
What excites me the most about Paris is the quality and the mindset regarding everyday life, the architectural continuity and aesthetics of the city and the fact that there will always be something new to do or discover, the opportunities are endless. The fact that it is not the easiest city from several points of view and that it challenges you motivates me a lot, it makes me feel alive.