Meet Muhammad Arar - Architect | PM.

Late summer, Muhammad Arar joined SZ Design | Build, as a licensed Architect and Project Manager. He comes to us with eight years of professional experience and is excited to take the lead on various projects, including the Origin Salon Spa in Redmond, WA. Muhammad’s organization, creativity and collaborative spirit contribute to our positive team and client experiences throughout SZ’s Design | Build process. We’re thrilled to welcome Muhammad on board!

Get to know Muhammad through his responses to a few ‘getting to know you’ questions below.

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of work?

There is something beautiful about connecting with complete strangers to offer a service for the public good. And with time, some stop being strangers. I have been enjoying volunteering with a number of local organizations, especially in the last year.

What’s something you’ve accomplished that you’re super proud of?

I immigrated in 2014 directly after earning a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Damascus University. I started my journey in the United States by working at Best Buy. I then went on to earn a master’s degree, work for a reputable Seattle firm, and become a licensed architect in 2022. My path over the last 10 years was challenging, but I am proud of being able to overcome the obstacles.

What’s your favorite way to spend the weekend?

Outdoors: A walk, run, or hike in nature. Indoors: Baking!

What’s your favorite sports team or athlete?

Katie Ledecky. I watched many videos of professional swimmers to observe their technique. Ledecky’s talent was inspiring.

What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever been to?

Alhambra in Granada felt unworldly. Its history, architecture, and nature made it the most interesting place I have ever visited.

Who would you choose if you could pick one person, living or dead, to have dinner with?

My grandfather was a good friend. I remember him being respectful and fair. I wish I could sit down with him again and learn more from his life and experience.

What hobby would you like to try if you had the time?

I would travel and spend more time abroad. There is so much to explore outside of our little bubble.

If you could learn any language, which one would it be and why?

I imagine the amount of culture that understanding Spanish can help me experience. I would love to learn from the cultures of Mexico, Cuba, Chile, Venezuela, etc..

What did you want to be when you were a kid?

I was obsessed with space and spent a lot of time looking up. I wanted to be an astronomer.

What's your favorite movie soundtrack?

Lord of the Rings is the most memorable to me. It would move anyone to stand with Aragon against Sauron's army.

What superpower do you most envy, and how do you wish you could use it?

Space travel. The teenager in me still wants to explore the universe!

What’s your favorite breakfast food?

An American Breakfast with bottomless coffee is something that I look forward to every now and then.

What would you choose an unlimited supply of in the office?

Good donuts and coffee are essential and in demand.

What musical instrument have you always wanted to play?

I liked many instruments over the years, but the piano has been the one constant.

What would you choose if you could only eat one type of cuisine for the rest of your life?

I will never get bored of Indian cuisine.

What do you enjoy about being part of the SZ Design | Build Team?

The intersection between design and construction. Social awareness. The art.