Irini Papalouka

Specialized in Interior Design.

Irini Papalouka

About Irini Papalouka

Irini has been in the interior design business since 2000. She has worked for a number of local companies before her entrepreneurial spirit led her to setting up Irini Papalouka Interior Architect/ Environmental Designer , as the design arm of the business. Applying her high-quality aesthetic, she takes a holistic approach to her designs, creating stunning spaces with both comfort and functionality in mind, ensuring that the client’s environment has a positive impact on their lives. Her portfolio of work includes a wide range of commercial and residential projects.

  • Winner of the A' Design Award.
  • Specialized in Interior Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Interior
Angel VII Private Residence Residential House Interior Design

Angel VII Private Residence Residential House Interior Design

Interior Design

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Interview with Irini Papalouka

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 always liked art and i started painting and art classes when i was 10 years old. A relative who was studying History of Art at the University of Moscow, and her husband, a Russian painter and artist, saw my paintings when i was 15 years old. She suggested that i could study Interior Design because my paintings showed a lot of imagination. Since then i didnt want to be anything else than an Interior Designer.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
The company was established in 2011. At the time we dealt mostly with residential projects. Withing the years the design studio has worked on a large number of both residential and commercial projects. In general, we strive to create interiors that are powerful and with soul. We pay a lot of attention to detail and constantly get informed on new materials and finishes as well as new trends. In 2015 the company won a European Property Award for the Interior Design of Fiduciana Trust (Cyprus) offices. This award added credibility to our design studio .
What is "design" for you?
“Design creates culture. Culture shapes values. Values determine the future.” –Robert L. Peters
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I prefer to design commercial projects because they give the designer more freedom to be a bit more creative.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
Every space i design, I feel that they are a part of me. They are my 'babies'! Therefore i couldn't have a favorite as i love them all!
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I prefer to work with natural materials (e.g wood, metal, stone etc) I have a large interest in 3D printing as well as i find that it creates vast and new opportunities in design.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
It depends on the project and what the client brief says. In general though, I focus a lot on the aspect that the space is correctly planned and on lighting.
What makes a design successful?
For commercial projects design that communicates with the public based on the space's concept and creates an experience for the user. For residential projects, design that communicates the clients need and brief.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
When i see a design i firstly look at the use of materials and how these materials blend well in the overall design. I always want to see something different that i don't see in general on a good design, something that will attract the eye. Lighting too is a very important aspect to good design. Lastly, if the design is functional as well as aesthetically pleasing is good design.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
A designer should always work with the environment in mind. Its his/her responsibility to the society and the environment.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
I believe the 'design field' is constantly evolving, whether it be new materials, new construction methods etc. Therefore i believe that the future of design will be very interesting, with new technologies created to help the designer to achieve more in respect to the overall outcome of a design.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
My source of inspiration is anything really. I could be jogging outdoors and i will have an idea, or new concept for one of my projects. Or it maybe something i see and like and try to do something of my own design based on that idea.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
My design style is based on the clients wants and needs. I work a lot with natural materials and I try to be as environmentally friendly as possible. Lighting either artificial or natural is very important in my designs.
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
I live in Cyprus. Living in a small island though does not affect me in any way as far as my designs are concerned. The only con is that to design a bigger scale project is more difficult than if i was in a bigger country. Also some materials are harder to find and need to order at least 2-3 months before installation.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
My Artemide lamps My custom made furniture which i designed My Paola Lenti Seat
Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
Be true at what you want to achieve in each design, be always informed about new materials and new designs, and most importantly, love what you do.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
There are no negatives of being a designer as long as you love what you do!!
What is your "golden rule" in design?
Always be informed and up-to-date with new designs, materials and technologies. And love what you do.
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
A lot of construction books! Also I use 3dstudio max program to make the final realisation for my clients.
Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
I always prioritize my projects and program each day to work on the project with priority
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
I always enjoy having the same mindset with the client and having the correct brief from the beginning.
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
I always seek for projects that will let me use my full potential! My future plans are for projects like these.

Extended Interview with Irini Papalouka

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I studied Interior Design at Birmingham University of Art & Design. After I graduated I worked as a kitchen designer for 2 years until I started working in one of the biggest interior design offices in Cyprus. I worked there for 5 years before I started my own business.
How did you become a designer?
I always loved design, from when I was a teenager. I had an artistic spirit and wanted to change everything around all the time! I don't think I could be anything else other than an interior designer. I love what I do!
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
I enjoy most projects that let me use my full potential; where a client gives you full trust in your professionalism.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
Always aim high! To do this you need to work work work! And to work you need to love it. Then you will find ways to succeed!
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
It is my belief that a good designer usually designs the same thing over and over again but in different spaces. A great designer always seeks challenges and each space for the great designer is totally new , nothing will be the same as the previous project.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
Good design lies in the beholders eye. Some like classic and some like modern. To evaluate it as good, the space should have a smooth approach to the eye.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Everyone should invest in good design because if you do good and functional design several things occur: 1) You save money 2) You feel better 3) You will not need to renovate soon because you feel that the space is incomplete or not what you wanted.
What is your day to day look like?
I would design for Marcel Wanders of course. I love him! Something crazy for sure , maybe a crazy table or a deco object.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
I want to discover old residences that have been neglected and give them a new life. Design them from start to end by myself and my team and either rent it or sell it after its completed.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
Marcel Wanders Zaha Hadid, Kelly Hoppen and some other designers that are not yet legends
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
Always be informed about new materials and technology and work work work to achieve the best end result.

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