Merve Iscan: Winner of the 2025 Great Companies International Women Entrepreneur Award

Name: Merve Iscan

Business Name: Studio RUUM

Location: London , United Kingdom ( UK)

Category: Architecture & Interior Design

Website: studioruum.co.uk

Social Media: www.linkedin.com/in/merve-iscan-98023993

Company Detail:

Studio RUUM is an innovative architectural and interior design practice established in London in 2021 by Merve Iscan, who holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Turkey.

Studio RUUM delivers bespoke interior designs, architectural planning, and comprehensive council application services. Their expertise includes obtaining planning permissions, lawful development certificates, change of use approvals, shopfront applications, and creating detailed architectural drawings.

They’ve designed a wide range of interiors, including houses, dental practices, beauty centres, coffee shops, donut shops, and restaurants. Their extensive portfolio spans numerous successful projects in London boroughs such as Hackney, Barnet, Camden, Enfield as well as Kent. Additionally, they have effectively managed diverse planning and council submissions across councils including Kingston, Haringey, Enfield, Camden, Elephant and Castle, Broxbourne, Lambeth, and Islington.

With the recent addition of Burcu Dede, a dedicated partner specialising in council applications, Studio RUUM has strengthened its capabilities, providing clients with streamlined and proficient management of complex bureaucratic processes. Their in-house knowledge of planning regulations and building systems allows them to provide clients with a seamless and confident experience, blending exceptional design with thorough technical and regulatory expertise.

They are a trusted partner for clients seeking tailored, elegant, and functional spaces - designed and delivered with care.

Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage:

Studio RUUM offers a rare, one-stop-shop experience that sets them apart in the design and architecture industry. Their unique strength lies in the seamless integration of interior and architectural design with deep knowledge of planning policies, structural understanding, and building systems such as plumbing, mechanical, and electrical. This holistic approach allows them to create designs that are not only visually compelling but also technically feasible and aligned with building regulations.

Their clients appreciate that they don’t just focus on how a space looks - they design with how it functions in mind. For example, when designing a side extension, they plan both the architectural structure and the interior layout in parallel, ensuring clients gain the most efficient and practical use of their extended space. This level of attention gives clients peace of mind and confidence that all aspects of their project are being carefully managed.

Additionally, their in-house expertise in council applications saves clients from dealing with multiple consultants. From planning submissions to shopfront design and change-of-use approvals, they take care of it all - streamlining communication and speeding up project timelines. Their commitment to quality, transparency, and personal attention keeps their clients coming back and referring others to them.

Challenges Faced During the Journey:

Starting a business in a new country came with many challenges - cultural, professional, and personal. After completing her architecture degree and working for 6 years in Turkey, Merve moved to the UK with a vision to establish her own practice. Although her business plan was approved, building trust and credibility in a new market was not easy.

She had to navigate a different planning system, unfamiliar regulations, and local council requirements - all while adjusting to a new environment and establishing professional relationships from scratch. At first, she managed every aspect of the business on her own, from design to client communication, council submissions, and marketing.

One of the biggest challenges was proving her expertise and value in a competitive industry, especially as a female entrepreneur from a different country. However, through persistence, continuous learning, and building strong relationships, she gained the confidence of her clients and local partners. Today, with the support of her business partner Burcu Dede, they’ve grown Studio RUUM into a respected and trusted name in London’s architectural and interior design scene.

Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:

If she could share one thing with young women who want to be entrepreneurs, it would be this: believe in your vision - even when no one else fully sees it yet. She moved to a new country, started from scratch, and built a business in a completely different system. It wasn’t easy, and there were many moments of doubt, but trusting herself and staying committed to her dream made all the difference.

Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance. Build strong networks - communities like BNI or local business groups can open unexpected doors. Learn continuously, be open to feedback, and most importantly, believe that your background, your perspective, and your voice add value to the business world.

Success doesn’t come overnight - but it does come when you stay true to yourself and keep going. Your background, your experiences, and your way of thinking are not obstacles - they are your superpowers. Own them. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey, even the messy parts - they shape the kind of leader and woman you’re becoming.