"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, Karolina Howorko of Studio HOKA talks about her approach to design.
Karolina Howorko - architect, set designer and designer. She completed her master's degree in scenography and architecture in Paris and Mexico, and has done internships and workshops in France, Japan, the Netherlands, Colombia and Denmark. Her master's project was awarded an "Innovation & Savoir-faire" scholarship. She has participated in numerous theatrical and film productions, as well as architectural and museum productions. She has won many awards and prizes.
1. For me home is...
Home is a space that becomes a canvas for art and an expression of our identity. A space that has a huge impact on our emotions and overall well-being. It is a place that is designed to create good experiences and evoke positive emotions.
2. The key to a successful interior design is...
A perfect combination of aesthetics and functionality, taking into account the priorities and wishes of the client. Vision, creativity, harmony of shapes, colors and materials created with attention to optimum use of space and careful planning are all factors in creating an interior that meets the client's expectations and aesthetically satisfies them.
3. I look for inspiration in...
My sources of inspiration are drawn from a variety of fields, with a special emphasis on nature and geometry. Their extraordinary beauty and harmony are an endless source of creativity for me.
In addition, I draw inspiration from many other fields, such as film, philosophy, art, technology, fairs, books, history and travel. Movies provide me with unusual ideas, while philosophy helps me understand the importance of harmony and balance. Meanwhile, art and history, remind me of the range of styles and unusual solutions that I can use in my projects.
In the field of ever-evolving technology, I experiment with modern solutions and innovative materials, which allows me to create unique designs, not only for interiors. Trade shows and travel give me the opportunity to explore the latest trends and inspiration from different cultures and places around the world. I have a special folder with inspirations for interesting solutions and textures taken from my travels. Books, on the other hand, provide me with knowledge and a deeper understanding of interior design fields.
These diverse sources of inspiration are the foundation of my work, allowing me to create designs that are not only aesthetically stunning, but also perfectly meet the functional and ergonomic requirements of clients.
4. In cooperation with the investor, the most important thing is...
Achieving a common understanding of the needs and goals of the project.
5. My favorite design style is....
My own. Like most creatives, I don't like to blindly follow styles. I don't limit myself to one favorite style, but continue my constant exploration of various interior design trends, such as modern reinterpretations of Art Déco or Japandi styles. In particular, I am fascinated by the influence of art on living spaces, for example through the use of murals, which I find to be an extremely inspiring decorative element.
6. The most valuable object in my home is...
Material objects are not the most important to me. In my home, I value above all memories and relationships with people. Nevertheless, I love having artwork and gifts from artists in this space. These items give the interior a unique character and carry a deep emotional dimension, while being an expression of artistic inspiration and our friendship.
7. The most common mistake in self-decorating interiors is...
Failure to enlist the help of experts and uncritically relying on quick solutions found on the Internet or television. Unfortunately, such a chaotic strategy can lead to a waste of time, money and sometimes even health. I also encounter situations where there is no coherent plan, and the functionality of the space and the quality of the chosen materials are overlooked, which ultimately affects the comfort and durability of the arrangement.
8. My favorite material is...
Wood from certified sources. This material adds warmth and natural character to interiors, while remaining compatible with ecological design principles. Wood is also extremely versatile. It can be used to create both beautiful furniture and artistic pieces, which I especially enjoy because I love to create.
9. A trend I would like to see pass away already is...
Short-lived interior fashions that encourage frequent rearrangement and contribute to overproduction.
They encourage frequent rearrangement and can lead to a kind of consumerism in which people constantly replace furniture, decorations and furnishings. This, in turn, has a negative impact on the planet through increased waste and consumption of raw materials.
In addition, constant rearrangement can lead to a waste of resources and finances. Investing in sustainable and quality interior solutions can be more economical and environmentally friendly in the long run.
In my approach to interior design, I strive to promote sustainable solutions that reflect the client's personality and needs, as well as being environmentally friendly. I strive to create spaces that are not only functional, but also resistant to passing trends. I hope that the future of the interior design world will be more focused on sustainable design and long-lasting solutions that benefit both customers and the planet.
10. Someday, I would like to live in...
I dream of two unique places. Both are infused with natural materials that inspire both the artistic soul and the architect's mind.
The first is a charming tree house located on a tropical island, where natural materials will bring warmth and harmony to the interior, harmonizing with the beauty of the surrounding nature. It is a vision of peace and harmony, where views of the blue sea and beaches of the tropical land bring respite. As an architect, in designing such a place, I would see the use of natural materials and maintaining a sustainable design created with respect for the surrounding nature.
The second dream is a glass house in the mountains, away from the neighbors. A place where, in order to emphasize the beauty of the mountain landscape and create a calm, harmonious space, natural materials will be used.
Of course, these two projects are not only for me, but can also be designed for my future clients who share my vision.
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