Good People of vitruta: Deniz Cınbıl

Welcome to Good People, Deniz! Let's start with the classic question: Who is Deniz Cınbıl? How did your journey begin, how’s it going, and what are you working on?

Thanks! I’m a Multidisciplinary designer. I mostly focus on unisex/streetwear and product design in the fashion industry. A large part of my time goes to Abnormal Objects, my brand in home goods that I established through my passion for product design. :)

I was born in Istanbul, and when I was four, my family moved to Washington, D.C., where I lived until I finished high school. Growing up in a creative household, with a father who is a musician and a versatile artist, I found myself drawn to expressing myself through drawing from a young age. In high school, I discovered the analog world through darkroom classes. Little did I know that this medium, which I later distanced myself from, would become integral to my future career.

After my years in the U.S., I returned to Istanbul to study Fashion Design at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. Early in my university years, I had the opportunity to study for a semester at the Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam, an experience that greatly enriched me. I think the different perspectives I gained from living in the U.S., the Netherlands, and Turkey played a major role in shaping my artistic identity.

During university, I took my first steps into the professional world at Les Benjamins, followed by freelance design work. Through my studies, I had the valuable opportunity to work as a designer/creative director and analog photographer for various brands, experiences that were instrumental in the journey of building my own brand. In recent years, while focusing mainly on Abnormal Objects, I continue to work as a freelancer.

So, what does a typical day for Deniz look like? I think I have a pretty good idea by now, but how would you answer this question? :)

I’m definitely at a point where I feel the difference between my summer and winter routines. I confess—I’m a summer child! :) This winter, as usual, I’m missing the summer, but having a creative space to work in makes me feel much happier. My current winter routine usually starts with waking up, enjoying a morning coffee at home, and doing a bit of yoga. Then I take the ferry across to focus on my work at my studio in Karaköy. On days when I feel like socializing, I wrap up my studio hours with wine in Pera with friends, often ending up in Çukurcuma.

How did Abnormal Objects come to life?

I've always been inspired by the Bauhaus school of thought. I’ve had a long-standing interest in furniture, vintage objects, and design-oriented home products. My family also had a big influence on me in this regard. Without realizing it, I grew up in a home filled with unique finds from American antique shops and thrift stores—everything in our house was truly one-of-a-kind.

Abnormal Objects emerged as a project rooted in need. The idea of designing minimalist, unique, sustainable, and functional home products influenced by Bauhaus principles was highly motivating for me.

We’re moving forward as a multidisciplinary brand that seeks to reveal and reflect the “abnormal” sides of ourselves in different spaces, including our homes, allowing each person to express their unique self.

What inspires you when you’re designing?

I draw inspiration from many sources. As our perspective shifts, so does what inspires us. Different countries and cities I’ve traveled to, films I watch, exhibitions I visit, and the emotions I feel during these experiences are major sources of inspiration for me. When I’m focused on design, I also dive deeply into my emotions.

What are your favorite places to spend time in Istanbul?

After a day at the studio, I love stopping by Comedus in Pera, Ziba in Çukurcuma, and for dinner, Dün in Kadıköy on my way home. In the summer, it’s all about grabbing a coffee at Boter in Kalamış after skateboarding or having dinner at Nane—and, of course, wine!

What have you been watching, reading, and listening to lately?

I’m re-reading Being Human by Engin Geçtan, and each time I revisit it, I notice different reflections of my own life in its nuances. I’m also trying to work through my never-ending list of films, especially in winter. A few recent favorites are Sick of Myself, One Fine Morning, and Burning Days.

Here’s a playlist of songs I’ve been listening to lately: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/26BI8Lp6EjR399IJMy3Mbc?si=7cf5e6048e9248f8

What are your top 3 favorite brands at vitruta?

There were already so many, and a few more got added to my list during the shoot! I’d say my favorites are Rains, Carhartt WIP, and Dickies. :)

Click here to see the products Deniz Cınbıl used and selected during the shoot.