Interviews med Katarzyna Starzyk

My journey into architecture began with a significant life shift – taking a leave of absence from the Medical University of Warsaw, where I studied dentistry, and enrolling at the Faculty of Architecture at Warsaw University of Technology, which I graduated from. I also pursued my education in Paris at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris la Villette.

I have over fifteen years of professional experience, starting my career in renowned architectural studios, including Fiszer Atelier 41 in Warsaw and Paris. Since 2013, I have been a member of the Mazovian Regional Chamber of Architects. In 2015, I established my own design studio, which I successfully run to this day. Persistence in achieving my goals defines me, which is why my clients are satisfied with the results of my work.

I’ve always enjoyed both sciences and humanities. I believe architecture is a magnificent combination of the two. An architect must be creative, interested in history, and possess an analytical mind.

It was a conscious decision, although not an immediate one. Before studying architecture, I completed the first year of dentistry at the Medical University of Warsaw. However, my passion for design ultimately prevailed.

I design residential buildings, interiors, and furniture. I would like to work on more projects where architecture and interiors form a cohesive whole.

First of all, I don’t consider myself a design legend – there’s still a long road ahead to earn such a status. To young designers, I recommend perseverance, honing their craft, and courage in finding their own style.

Attention to detail, the ability to create timeless solutions, and the skill to balance aesthetics and functionality. I won’t present a concept to a client unless I’m satisfied with it myself. Quality of space is crucial to me.

A good design harmoniously combines aesthetics, functionality, and context. It should meet the user’s needs while carrying timeless value.

Good design enhances comfort, improves the functionality of space, and can positively impact the environment. It’s an investment in quality of life as well as the value of the property.

I would like to create a residence surrounded by nature, where architecture and the landscape are inseparable.

A house by the water that fully integrates with its surrounding landscape.

A blend of passion, consistency, and attention to detail. Before starting a project, I talk with clients about their needs, habits, and dreams. I try to see the space through their eyes and conduct a thorough site analysis.

Architects like Peter Zumthor, Jože Plečnik, and Tadao Ando inspire me – their approach to space and materials is timeless. I also deeply admire Stanisław Fiszer, whose studios in Paris and Warsaw greatly shaped my development.

I love buildings that engage the senses, like Zumthor’s Vals Thermal Baths. They’re an excellent example of dialogue between material and surroundings.

My best project so far is the "Double Barn," awarded the Golden A’Design Award in 2023. It combines modern design with local tradition and context while seamlessly integrating into its surroundings.

Continuous learning, analyzing exemplary projects, and experimenting. Personal experience is the best teacher.

I would have been a dentist, as I was already studying in that field and completed my first year. However, my passion for architecture prevailed.

Design is the process of creating spaces that not only meet users’ needs but also inspire and evoke emotions

My parents did not initially support my passion for architecture, so I had no backing in pursuing this career. My determination and proving to my family that I could succeed helped me persevere.

Constant self-improvement, exploring new solutions, and striving for excellence in design.

Every project is a challenge – sometimes it’s budget constraints, and other times client expectations. The key is to find creative solutions and compromises.

Designers should focus on authenticity and context. A good presentation combines clear storytelling, high-quality visuals, and showcasing the design process—from inspiration to the final result. It is crucial to demonstrate the value the project brings to people's lives.

I am currently working on a habitat of several vacation homes in the beautiful landscape of Masuria. I aim not to spoil it, as it is exceptional on its own. Architecture should complement the setting, not dominate it. I’m also starting work on houses using timber frame and CLT technologies.

To create projects that stand the test of time and positively impact the community, environment, and future generations. Design should be not only beautiful but also responsible. I want to continue working on residential architecture.

People expect innovation, perfection, and a vision ahead of trends. It is also important that my projects align with the values I represent—beauty, functionality, and sustainability.

Design shapes our behaviors and environments. Thoughtful projects can improve quality of life, support sustainable development, and build spaces that foster integration and collaboration.

I’m working on a project combining biophilic design elements with modern urban architecture. I am excited about the opportunity to redefine how we perceive public spaces in large cities.

Single-family homes, where years later I receive positive feedback from clients who say I created wonderful living spaces for them.

I’d like to see a greater emphasis on sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration. I hope the industry becomes more open to diversity and inclusivity.

We are moving toward greater integration of technology, personalized designs, and solutions resilient to climate change.

It depends on the scale of the project. Interiors may take several months, while larger architectural projects can take a year or more. Quality, not time, is my priority.

I always start with analyzing the context—location, user needs, and constraints. Inspiration comes from conversations, nature, and the site’s history.

"Design is for people, not the designer."

Good design sets trends by addressing future needs before they become apparent.

Technology is both a tool and an inspiration. It helps us experiment and push the boundaries of design possibilities.

I primarily use software like AutoCAD and Adobe Suite. I also rely on 3D printers and VR tools for prototyping.

They are essential as they define the atmosphere and functionality of a space. Every material or color tells a story and creates an emotional connection with the user.

I’d like them to ask about the impact of the project on their lives and the surrounding world.

I think about the stories and needs behind the design and what I can learn from it.

I believe in co-designing. The ideal partner is someone who brings fresh perspectives, inspires, and complements my approach or challenges it.

My mentors and local communities involved in the projects had the greatest influence.

"Total Architecture" by Walter Gropius and recently Robert Konieczny's book "Buildings + Ideas."

Through practice, observation, and openness to critique. Working with diverse teams has taught me the most.

Le Corbusier—I’d love to understand how he envisioned the future of cities in his time.

It’s gratifying to hear words of appreciation and see my work acknowledged. I feel grateful and also responsible for meeting expectations with future projects. I don’t feel famous, and fame isn’t my goal—recognition as a good architect with a unique style is what matters.

Color: Deep green. Place: Polish Tatra Mountains. Food: Mediterranean cuisine. Season: Spring. Thing: Sketchbook. Brand: Muji for its minimalism.

I’m always amazed by the outcomes of collaboration with investors. The more engaged they are, the better the projects turn out, fostering creative dialogue and understanding their needs.

Contact with nature and conversations with people. Knowing that each day is an opportunity to improve something keeps me motivated.

As a child, I loved drawing, sculpting, and building with blocks, but I never thought of it as destiny—it was a natural evolution

I think design will become more integrated with nature and technology, and our environment will be fully sustainable.

I’d like people to know that my projects stem from a passion for architecture and attention to detail. I create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance well-being and comfort. I hope my work inspires others to appreciate quality design.

I have been drawing and sculpting since I was a child. It has always been my passion, but at the beginning I did not associate my professional future with it. The original plan was for me to go the "sensible" route and become a doctor. I passed the exams at the Medical Academy in Warsaw, where I studied dentistry for a year. Passion, however, won out, after completing a year of study at the Medical Academy, I decided to make a revolution, I took a dean's leave and got into the Faculty of Architecture of the Warsaw University of Technology, and so I finally became an architect. Now I can combine my passion with my professional life.

My studio is mainly concerned with residential buildings. These are mainly single-family and multi-family houses on a smaller scale. I develop designs of buildings along with their interiors to maintain the coherence of architecture with the interior. In designing, detail is very important to me, and the small scale of objects allows me to treat them as sculptures in space.

First of all, I design for people. I try to maintain harmony in the human-environment relationship in every aspect of the project. The main value for me is to create a friendly space for living, working and relaxing, which my clients will want to use for years. I deeply believe that architecture influences emotions and the quality of life. That is why I approach my work with full attention, trying to get to know the Investor's needs as best as possible. This is the basis for creating an individual project, not a typical or fashionable one. I focus on timeless design, assuming that what is fashionable today will quickly become outdated. I understand design as a process in which I can offer much more than just superficial styling. That is why I put the most emphasis on the structure, noble material in connection with a clear layout of functions.

Single-family houses with their interior. I like talking to their future inhabitants and getting to know their needs, habits, and way of life. And then translate all this into the architecture of the space I design for them.

My favourite project is Double Barn. It's a suburban home for a family of four. In this project, I managed to combine harmony with nature and the region's tradition. The primary value was to create a friendly space for living, working, and relaxation, which my clients will enjoy for years. Let's remember that architecture influences emotions and quality of life. It seems to me that this goal was achieved in this project. Despite its large scale, the house is cozy and blends into the surroundings. From the very beginning of the project, the investors had a desire to build a building in the style of a modern barn. They also had the idea for a separate garage as an additional structure attached to the main part of the house. During the project development, this idea evolved. The collaboration went very well. The owners were open to my suggestions, and together we managed to find the right solutions. Creating a project is never a one-sided process. It also becomes important to establish specific solutions and materials during the execution stage of the project, and then bring it all to life. Only then can the intended success be achieved. Introducing uncontrolled changes during construction can have different outcomes. In the case of this house, the investors consistently followed the project. There was one change related to costs, but we managed to find a good alternative solution.

It was an estate of terraced houses in Grodzisk Mazowiecki. It consists of eight segments arranged in two compact structures perpendicular to each other. One structure comprises four segments. Each unit has three residential floors. On a small ground floor area, we managed to fit a single-car garage with a boiler room, an entrance hall, a living room with a kitchenette and dining area, and a toilet. Upstairs, there is a master bedroom and two additional rooms with a shared bathroom. Both the bedroom and the rooms have access to terraces. The attic space was left for the individual arrangement by the investors.

I like natural materials. I believe that time does not harm them, they age with dignity and are timeless.

When I start working on a new design concept. then I do inspiration research, I analyze the environment, I talk to investors.

I try to understand each client and their needs. I believe that building a relationship of mutual understanding and trust is the key to creating a good project and its implementation. I focus on timeless design, assuming that what is fashionable today will quickly become outdated. I understand design as a process in which I can offer much more than just superficial styling. The more I put emphasis on the structure, noble material in connection with a clear layout of functions.

I feel like a seeker or explorer then. I try to get to know my clients, I look for the best design solutions, I explore the legal aspects of the project in a given location.

Excitement. I always can't wait for the construction to be completed. I enjoy watching the building grow and take shape, as it begins to coexist with its surroundings. It's a responsible job because I'm not creating something temporary. The building will change the environment for decades.

First of all, satisfied customers who are satisfied with the effect of my work and say that they feel good in the space I created for them. Next, industry recognition and possible awards.

At first glance, you can see whether the building has good or bad proportions, what materials have been used to finish it. I also pay a lot of attention to the planning of functions.

The work of an architect is very responsible, because buildings built according to our designs will change the environment for several decades. They have a very large impact on the environment, so they should be designed with great respect for the environment in the spirit of sustainable development. It is a great responsibility towards society.

I think there is less and less room for flashy architecture. I see the buildings of the future as independent organisms that are self-sufficient and do not need to use non-renewable resources.

I follow global trends and try to keep up with them. I look for inspiration everywhere, on the Internet, in the press, in the environment. Sometimes I find inspiration in the least expected places, sometimes on a walk or when I'm traveling, when I see an interesting structure and light falling on it. Sometimes just when I see a beautiful picture.

First of all, I design for people. I try to maintain harmony in the human-environment relationship in every aspect of the project. The overriding value is to create a friendly space for living, working and relaxing, which my clients will want to use for years. Architecture influences emotions and quality of life. That is why I approach my work with full attention, trying to get to know the Investor's needs as best as possible. This is the basis for creating an individual project, not a typical or fashionable one. I focus on timeless design, assuming that what is fashionable today will quickly become outdated. I understand design as a process in which I can offer much more than just superficial styling. The more I put emphasis on the structure, noble material in connection with a clear layout of functions.

I live in the suburbs of Warsaw. I think there is a lot of work to be done in terms of tidying up the suburbs of big cities. In Poland, typical projects are commonly rooted in people's minds. According to those typical projects, houses are created that are randomly located and have no connection with the heritage of a given region or surroundings. The problem is also poorly defined local plans, which do not have a complete impact on the appearance of houses or maintaining cohesion in the architecture of a given region.

Companies are represented by people. I think that it is always crucial to build an understanding with the company's representatives and to determine whether the company's philosophy is consistent with the designer's views.

First and foremost, I design for people, aiming to maintain harmony in the human-environment relationship in every aspect of the project. I see design as a process where I can offer much more than just superficial styling. That's why I emphasize structure, noble materials in conjunction with clear functional layout. I start by visiting the site and conducting an interview with the investor. For single-family home projects, I have a questionnaire prepared for clients with key questions regarding their lifestyle, vision for the house, and needs. After gathering information and familiarizing myself with local regulations, I prepare a conceptual design in the form of plans, visualizations, and animations. Only after its approval, the construction and then the execution design are prepared.

Coffee machine, favorite cup, terrace, lamps, armchair

I think that a good designer is characterized by curiosity about the world, constant searching and collecting inspirations. You need to keep your eyes open to the changing needs of society and design solutions. Last but not least it is important to have courage to introduce your vision of architecture, even if it’s opposite to the mainstream.

Certainly the most interesting is the process of creating a concept, meeting new people. But that's only part of the project. Much more time is spent on technical work, coordination of industries, obtaining building permits. This is the tedious part of an architect's job.

Maintaining a balance between concept and technical work.

Ability to listen to people and design sense. I think these must be innate predispositions, they cannot be fully worked out.

I use drawing software, I also use maretials samples to compare materials live, to touch them

My working days are strictly planned, I have to divide my time between designing, meeting clients and family. I try to keep a healthy balance between time for work and time for family. I believe that thanks to this approach I am more effective and creative in my professional work.

It depends on the scale and complexity of the building. Developing a conceptual design for a 300 sqm house takes about a month. Then, another month is needed for the construction design, followed by the execution design. The waiting time for a building permit is around 2 months, but that time can be utilized, for example, to work on the execution design.

How much will it cost ;)

Designing and subsequent construction process of my own house. Designing for yourself is much more difficult than for others. Fortunately, I like the house I designed for my family. I think the assumptions I made have worked.

They are mostly private individuals. I also work with developers.

What I like the most is the concept creation stage. He is the most creative.

I would like to develop my studio towards specialization in residential architecture. Human needs are the most important to me. I am fascinated by how my work has a direct impact on the quality of life of residents.

I work on the concept on my own, but I have a team of industry designers to develop construction and executive designs,

Yes, these are mainly residential building projects. I am most pleased when they materialize in space, when I can move on to the next stage, i.e. the design of their interiors.

There are several ways to get in touch with me. The easiest way is to send an email or give me a call using the email address and phone number available on my website. You can also send a message through the contact form on the website. If it's more convenient for someone to use social media, they can send me a message on Instagram or Facebook.

To ensure the building’s scale respected the landscape of small single-family homes in the immediate vicinity, we conceived the idea of dividing the structure into two interconnected blocks. This approach not only helped to harmonize the house with its surroundings but also allowed it to integrate seamlessly into the existing tree cover. Externally, the two blocks give the impression of separate buildings connected at the ground and first-floor levels. However, their placement is deliberate—carefully informed by the surrounding landscape, sun orientation, and functional requirements.

The decision to angle one block slightly relative to the other created a dynamic interplay between the two forms, energizing the overall composition. This arrangement was also guided by practical considerations—angling one block toward the gate improved access to the three-car garage. This layout naturally resulted in a welcoming entrance courtyard on the east side and a private garden on the southwest side. Generous glazing on the south and west-facing facades ensures optimal energy efficiency, while overhanging roof slopes and existing greenery provide natural shading to prevent overheating in the summer.

The design process emphasized the relationship between people, nature, place, history, and tradition. This approach stemmed from a deep exploration of the cultural context while simultaneously seeking a contemporary architectural expression. By drawing on the simplicity of Mazovian rural architecture—characterized by rectangular plans and symmetrical gabled roofs—we created a design that respects the region's traditions while reimagining them in a modern, timeless form. The result is a building that feels both deeply rooted in its context and forward-looking in its design language.

The building’s facades are clad in graphite cement tiles, chosen for their rustic texture, which evokes the organic unevenness of tree bark and enables the house to blend naturally with its surroundings. This darker material is complemented by light, wood-like HPL panels in recessed areas, softening the visual mass of the structure and adding a sense of warmth and coziness, especially from the interior perspective. The use of composite panels with a riffled texture on the gable walls and entrance area further enhances the tactile and visual appeal, creating a harmonious dialogue between the house and its environment.

The design carefully considered the neighboring single-family homes to ensure the house would not overpower the local architectural context. By dividing the structure into two barn-inspired blocks, we achieved a form that aligns naturally with the scale and rhythm of the rural landscape. This thoughtful division allowed the project to harmonize with its surroundings while retaining its own architectural identity.

The interior layout was designed to balance shared family spaces with private areas tailored to each household member. The parents’ zone occupies the mezzanine floor in one block, including a hobby room and master bedroom. The children’s zone is housed in the second block, featuring a playroom, twin bedrooms with mezzanines, a shared bathroom, and storage. A connecting link bridges the two zones, with the staircase positioned to provide direct access to both areas. This layout fosters interaction while offering privacy and independence, with the staircase itself serving as a sculptural feature that enhances both the interior and exterior design.

In the “Double Barn” project, the goal was to trigger similar emotions to those of being in nature, being in the woods. The key assumption I made for the project was the interpenetration of the interior of the house with the surrounding nature. This effect was achieved thanks to huge glazing. The garden even penetrates into the interior of the house, while in the evening, especially with the light turned on inside, the glazing of the gable wall allows the structure of the house to be exposed outside, towards the terrace.

One major challenge was a discrepancy in the local zoning plan regarding the minimum plot size, which initially raised concerns about the property’s eligibility as a building site. Fortunately, the more favorable parameter prevailed, allowing the project to proceed. During the conceptual phase, relocating the children’s spaces above the garage helped distribute the house’s functional zones more evenly, while also creating a more intimate garden area on the plot’s southwestern side. These adjustments ultimately enhanced the project’s functionality and spatial dynamics.

Integrating hidden gutters and downpipes allowed us to maintain the minimalist form of the house and reinforce its modern character. By eliminating visible drainage elements, the elevations remain uniform and uncluttered, contributing to the overall sense of harmony and refinement.

The recognition of Double Barn House highlights the value of integrating modern architecture with regional traditions and natural surroundings. This project serves as a testament to the potential of blending contemporary design with cultural and environmental sensitivity. Its success inspires confidence in continuing to explore this balance, encouraging more projects that harmonize innovation with context, and persuading clients to invest in architecture that respects and enhances its environment.