"10 Questions to an Interior Designer" is a series of short talks inspired by the series "10 Questions to...".This time our attention is turned to interior architects. In today's episode, Joanna Klimczak and Jakub Kudela of JK+PARTNERS studio talk about their approach to design.
Joanna Klimczak and Jakub Kudela - a duo consisting of an architect and a civil engineer. Together they run a studio specializing in turnkey interior design and finishing. They have been in the business for about 6 years. During this time they have completed more than 100 projects.
1 For us, home is.
In material terms, it's a place of escape. An asylum where we can relax, cut ourselves off from the world, sorrows, problems. To enjoy life with loved ones, in a place arranged under us. A space coexisting with us in a certain harmony, being a bit of a reflection of us. Interiors speak, even when we sit quietly.
2 The key to successful interior design is....
Joanna: It's the sum of the large number of "ingredients" we have to mix together to create THIS interior. However, the most important thing for us is the relationship with the future owner. The key is conversation. We need to get to know him enough to best understand his needs, passions, expectations, and then be able to propose things he didn't even expect.
James: The implementation of the project, is a mission comparable in climate to the ER. The most important thing is the mutual trust we have with our contractors. These are years of developed cooperation.
3 We look for inspiration....
Joanna: Future residents are the biggest inspiration. I love the out-of-the-box approach to interiors and finding inspiration in inconspicuous places. For example, I created a bathroom inspired by the game "Cyberpunk" and the movie "Atomic Blonde", but also inspired after returning from Japan, I designed a house in the spirit of "polish japandi".
4 In working with an investor, the most important thing is....
Joanna: Understanding his needs, getting to know him enough to be able to propose even more.
Jakub: Sincerity, clear message and positive attitude.
5 Our favorite design style is....
Joanna: We like to mix styles and design unique under the resident. We create in a mix of japandi and mid-century modern, as well as minimalism with color. We love renovating townhouses. Privately ourselves, we bought a ruin and turned it into a gem. Our interiors are often said to be warm and subdued, but with a twist which gives them a certain uniqueness. We also do interiors that are very bold, crazy and therefore inspiring.
In general, I don't like the notion of "arrangement styles", because in my opinion, it very much limits horizons. However, I understand their purpose - they are a kind of initial compass, not a path to further consideration.
6 The most important item in our house is....
The couch! It is modular. We love sitting on it, having comfortable conversations, watching movies during movie nights. It is the level up of a stationary cinema! Our guests also love it.
7: The most common mistake made when doing interior design yourself is....
Joanna: Expecting that by doing something for the first time, we will get the same result as on interior design profiles or on TV. Not giving ourselves the opportunity to make mistakes results in frustration, hectoring and bellyache at the thought of renovation. Poles like to do everything themselves (me too!). We have a culture of overwork and "Zosia Samosia." Because of this, we sometimes fall into a trap. At first we seemingly save money, but then we lose twice. Renovation is really quite a challenge mentally and, above all, financially! We have so many companies, goods and services that it is easy to hit a bubble.
8 Our favorite material is....
Joanna: I am currently a fan of microcement. It's perfect for cleaning, has no joints (only expansion joints), is suitable for wet areas (including showers!) and is a much warmer material than tile (walking on it barefoot feels something between plastic and wood). It has only one downside - limited choice when it comes to drawing.
9 A trend we wish would pass away already is....
Joanna: "Polish glamour"
Jakub: Imitation marbles
10:We would like to live in... someday.
Joanna: Japan, but so periodically, because we love Poland.
Jakub: A large house, so as to accommodate and host our whole family and friends for a weekend. In an atrium type, with a cinema room and a home gym. Somewhere near water, a pond, a forest.
Check out other conversations in the series 10 questions to an interior designer
