How Yasser Yasin Musoke creates spaces that inspire

From his minimalist furniture to shelves filled with books, awards, and memorabilia, it is clear that Musoke’s spaces are more than just functional; they are an extension of his professional ideas, creative ambitions and personal values.

The journey that led Musoke to become one of Uganda’s most sought-after architects and interior designers began with his groundbreaking work on Mambo Café in Kansanga. At the age of just 21, Musoke created a space that would mark his debut as a designer and set the tone for his future career. Nestled among other eateries owned by Eritreans, Mambo Café was the only Ugandan-owned restaurant on the street, making it a standout destination for both locals and visitors. What truly set the café apart, however, was its lavish use of colour.

Breakthrough

“When I designed Mambo Café, I knew I wanted to use colour in a way that would make the space feel alive,” Musoke recalls. The café’s eclectic design, with vibrant colour splashes and unconventional materials, drew attention and quickly became a local hotspot. His signature style, a fusion of vibrant hues and bold choices, not only caught the public’s eye but also caught the attention of influential clients, one of whom would eventually propel him into the world of interior design.

“One couple came into the café and loved how colourful it was,” he explains with a smile.

“They asked me to come design their home, and that is how my journey began. From there, word spread, and I started getting other design commissions.”

Musoke’s ability to use colour to evoke emotion, to create spaces that were not just visually appealing but also emotionally engaging, became a cornerstone of his success. Central to Musoke’s design philosophy is his deep love for wood; one of the materials he consistently incorporates into his work.“Wood is a material that many designers in Uganda tend to overlook,” he says, “but I have always had an affinity for it. There is something so authentic about it, and it holds so much potential for creativity.”

Musoke’s use of wood goes beyond simple construction; it becomes an expression of his desire to break boundaries, to push the limits of what can be done with a material that is often seen as traditional. “Instead of simply following the conventional path of design, I challenge myself to reimagine how we use materials like wood. I want to create something unexpected, something new,” he explains.

This mindset has been key to Musoke’s success. His work is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating spaces that feel personal, authentic, and attuned to the needs of the people who inhabit them. Musoke believes that understanding a client’s desires, personality, and goals is paramount to the design process.

“When I take on a project, I do not just look at the physical space. I start by understanding the client’s needs, their vision for the space, and how they want to feel when they are in it. Then, I come up with a concept that aligns with those goals,” Musoke says.

His ability to blend his personal creativity with the unique requirements of each client has made him a trusted designer, one whose work reflects both innovation and individuality. The design process itself is something Musoke approaches with great thought and intention.

“Before I do anything, I always break the design down into elements,” he explains.

“For example, when working with wood, I start by looking at the patterns that can emerge from it; how one pattern will evolve when it is cut or shaped in a particular way. I like to envision how the different pieces will come together to form a cohesive, functional space.”

This meticulous approach ensures that every project Musoke works on is a perfect marriage of form and function.

Sustainability

His background in graphic design, animation, and photography is another vital aspect of his creative process.

“When I was younger, my father bought me a digital camera,” Musoke recalls.

“I started taking photos, and through that, I developed an eye for how light and shadow interact with the environment.” 

This love for photography has informed his architectural work, particularly in his understanding of how light plays off surfaces and enhances the atmosphere of a space. His photographic eye also influences his use of colour, ensuring that every design is dynamic and visually striking, no matter how subtle or bold the elements may be. But Musoke’s creativity does not stop at colours and textures. He is also deeply committed to sustainability in his designs.

As climate change continues to shape the global conversation around architecture, Musoke has made it a priority to design with the environment in mind. His work integrates eco-friendly solutions such as solar panels, green roofs, and energy-efficient materials; innovations that help reduce environmental impact while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of his designs.

Whether working on a high-end office building or a residential complex, Musoke ensures that sustainability is at the heart of every project.

Notable works

Among Musoke’s most notable works is the luxurious Krystal Luxe jewelry store, which he designed under his company YMY Design Studio. His design of the store blends elegance with sustainability, creating an environment that complements the brand’s opulence while being mindful of the environment.

Musoke was also part of the team behind the five-star Ritz Hotel in South Sudan, where he focused on integrating sustainable practices into the design. Other projects include the Green Oasis Eco-Lodge, an eco-friendly retreat, and the Wave Residential Complex, a modern living space built with an emphasis on community and sustainability.

Musoke’s work has taken him to various corners of the world, from South Sudan to Cyprus and Mexico, where he has contributed to international design projects, earned praise for his innovations, and shared his expertise with other architects and designers. His global reach reflects the growing recognition of his design philosophy and his ability to blend tradition with modernity, creating spaces that are not only functional but also deeply attuned to the cultures and environments in which they exist.

Patriot

Musoke’s commitment to preserving Uganda’s natural beauty is evident in his approach to design. 

“I don’t just build on land, I build around it,” he says. “If there is a tree in the middle of the living room, I will work with it, curating the space in a way that respects the environment. We do not need to destroy nature to create beauty; we need to learn how to build in harmony with it.”

This philosophy was instilled in him during his formative years as a member of his school’s environmental club. Today, it drives much of his work, inspiring him to incorporate sustainable practices into his designs and to push for a more eco-conscious approach to architecture in Uganda and beyond. Beyond his design work, Musoke is also a passionate advocate for his home country, Uganda.“90 percent of my inspiration comes from Uganda’s nature and culture,” he says.

“The warmth, hospitality, and vibrancy of my people; these things are woven into every project I work on. There is so much beauty in Uganda, and I want to share that with the world through my designs.”

The future

Looking to the future, Musoke envisions even greater things for himself and for the architecture and design industry in Uganda. Under his company YMY Design Studio, he aspires to create spaces that not only redefine luxury living but also promote sustainability, community, and environmental responsibility. His ultimate dream is to redesign the Uganda Museum, transforming it into an art academy where technology and history can merge, creating an institution where people can learn, appreciate, and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the country.

“I want to create spaces that help people connect with each other and with the environment,” he says. “Design is not just about aesthetics, it is about creating spaces that enhance people’s lives, that foster creativity, and that respect the world we live in. Every project is a chance to learn, to grow, and to make the world a better place through design.”

With his blend of passion, creativity, and commitment to sustainability, Yasser Musoke Yasin is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of architecture and interior design. Through his work, he continues to shape spaces that are not only visually stunning but also functional, sustainable, and deeply connected to the people and environments they serve.