Episode Details

In this episode of the OLISE Podcast, Annie White sits down with Clint Nagata, Founder and Creative Partner of BLINK Design Group, for an in depth conversation about global hospitality design, cultural luxury, and building an international studio without ego.

From leading iconic projects for One&Only, Six Senses, and Banyan Tree Dubai, to growing BLINK into a 120 person practice across Bangkok, Singapore, Dubai, and London, Clint shares what it really takes to scale a creative business while protecting its culture.

Born in Hawaii and now based in Bangkok for over 20 years, Clint reflects on how travel shaped his worldview, why he believes luxury is no longer singular, and how cultural luxury designing through the lens of place has become central to Blink’s philosophy.

He speaks candidly about walking away from projects when visions do not align, why losses can be more valuable than wins, and how humility, transparency, and friendship underpin his leadership style.

Clint also shares the story behind A Wish to Remember, Blink’s internal travel award created in memory of a beloved team member, and explains why exposure to the world is essential if designers are to create meaningful hospitality experiences.

This is a conversation about resilience, perspective, mentorship, and what it means to design for the next generation of global luxury travellers.

In this episode
• Growing BLINK organically into a global hospitality studio
• Why cultural luxury is redefining high end design
• Designing through interpretation, not imitation
• Leadership without ego and building an egoless firm
• Moving from creative to business leader
• Why losses can be more valuable than wins
• Transparency, open studios, and global team culture
• Mentorship and shaping the next generation of designers
• The story behind A Wish to Remember
• Why Morocco is next on Clint’s design horizon

Headline Sponsor

This episode is supported by Calibre Climate, specialists in bespoke climate control for high end homes. Their goal is not just temperature control, it is creating environments that feel effortless, balanced, and considered. Calibre Climate works closely with architects and interior designers to deliver quiet, beautifully integrated air conditioning solutions.
https://www.calibreclimate.com/

Perfect for

Interior designers, architects, hospitality professionals, studio founders, creative directors, and anyone interested in global design leadership, cultural storytelling, and building a values led business.

Listen and Watch

Full video available on YouTube
Audio on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms

Guest Link:
BLINK Design Group
https://www.blinkdg.com/

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