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Taka + Partners

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Interviews with Taka + Partners

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Designer Profile

Design Interview

Serenity Suites Hospitality Complex · 10 questions

The architectural concept approaches the notions of wellbeing in temporary accommodation during summer vacations.

What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?

The architectural concept approaches the notions of wellbeing in temporary accommodation during summer vacations.

What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?

The creative challenge was to generate a hospitality design that is described as an experience destination. Overall, we pursued the creation of a building design, that would set up a landmark.

What are your future plans for this award winning design?

We would like to spread the news and promote our work! We are delighted and thankful, because our inspiration and hard work has been acknowledged by such a prestigious and influential award as the A Design Award.

How long did it take you to design this particular concept?

The architectural and design study started in April 2018 was completed in September 2018. Construction took place from October 2018 - June 2019. The suites started operating in June 2019.

Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?

Our client, Mykoniatis Ilias & Co had the vision and invested in a hospitality complex of 20 suites. We thank him for his trust in bringing to life his vision.

Who is the target customer for his design?

Serenity Suites lie in the Nikiti, Sithonia settlement in Chalkidiki, Greece. Chalkidiki is a very popular destination for summer vacation. The target customers for this design are people across the world, who would like to visit and explore Greece during their vacation. The interior design transforms each suite into a functional, warm and aesthetically outstanding space delivering maximum pleasure, relaxation moments and a memorable experience to the clients.

What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts?

The building introduces a new spatial horizon, in an area with rather monotonous views. Serenity suites complex is recognized by its unique architecture geometry.

Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?

TAKA + PARTNERS were in charge of the architectural study & supervision, the interior design and the general supervision. Delivering this project involved collaborating with a wide range of qualified civil engineers, mechanical engineers, construction crews, furniture manufacturers and suppliers.

What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?

The complex consists of twenty suites developed in 3 significant and distinguishable units coupled with a swimming pool. Designing the above in a rather small plot was a great challenge. The construction of the project took place from October 2018 to June 2019. To that end, the short timescale was another challenge for the studio.

How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?

TAKA + PARTNERS is based in Thessaloniki, Greece, but we do have projects in Europe and the Middle East. Promoting our studio’s work, as a local brand which works in a global environment involves taking part in international design competitions of high level as the A Design Award & Competition.

Design Legend Interview

8 questions

I hold a degree in architecture from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) and the department of architecture, University of Florence (Italy).

Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

I hold a degree in architecture from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) and the department of architecture, University of Florence (Italy). I also hold a master’s degree from the National Technical University of Athens in the field of “Research in Architecture: Architectural Design - Space – Culture”.

What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

Design is everywhere as a core element of objects, buildings and attitude. Needless to say, that design serves everyday tasks and has a great impact on our lives. Good design creates emotions and improves quality of life. It is all about aesthetics and function after all!

How does design help create a better society?

By providing solutions to problems and introducing simplicity in life for industries, businesses and people. Good practices influence people, communicate ideas and lead the way for change.

What is your life motto as a designer?

Innovation and sustainability.

What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

Colour, materiality and ambient reflect one’s mood and create opportunities for living in a space. They consist great tools for bringing to life a concept. Smart materials and technology contribute to intelligent surroundings. However, good design is always fundamental.

Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

TAKA + PARTNERS is about team-working. Diversity in team members captures all aspects of design. Team-working is an on-going and evolutionary process with creative results. There is a saying “if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”. I couldn’t agree more!

What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

Blue for colour, New York for place, fish soup for food and Spring for season.

What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

As an architect I do hope for a more sustainable world for all of us. Technology is evolving rapidly and will offer whole new aspects of life. But we, as human-beings should keep our driving force and values.

Designer Interview

5 questions

I hold a degree in architecture from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) and department of architecture, University of Florence (Italy).

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?

I hold a degree in architecture from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) and department of architecture, University of Florence (Italy). I also hold a master’s degree from the National Technical University of Athens in the field of “Research in Architecture: Architectural Design - Space – Culture”.

Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?

TAKA + PARTNERS is a multi-awarded architectural and design practice. The studio was founded by me back in 2006 under the name ASPASIA TAKA architects. Our Middle East department was established in 2013 in Dubai. Since then the studio and team has grown up end evolved. The studio was rebranded to TAKA + PARTNERS and moved in a 400 sqm brand new office in 2020.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

TAKA + PARTNERS portfolio embodies a variety of projects in the fields of hospitality, residential complexes and apartments, retail, leisure, office buildings, exhibition spaces, landscape design and audiovisual space. We provide integrated architectural and interior design services including furniture and object design, as well. Diversity in design and team members is what characterizes TAKA + PARTNERS the most.

Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?

Wellbeing is a key element in my design. The concept of wellbeing, euphoria and emotional health are in accordance with the principles of human – centered design. It is about feelings and ease in a unique spatial experience.

How can people contact you?

Please visit our website: www.takaandpartners.com and feel free to contact us at: studio@takaandpartners.com

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The design interview data shown in our design interview page with Taka + Partners regarding Serenity Suites Hospitality Complex comes from the Design Interviews platform, where leading designers, architects and brands are interviewed regarding their award-winning designs, products and projects.