Irini Papalouka

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Irini Papalouka ("IP") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

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

IP : 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.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

IP : 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!

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

IP : I enjoy most projects that let me use my full potential; where a client gives you full trust in your professionalism.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

IP : 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!

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

IP : 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.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

IP : 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.

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

IP : 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.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

IP : I would design for Marcel Wanders of course. I love him! Something crazy for sure , maybe a crazy table or a deco object.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

IP : 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.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

IP : Marcel Wanders Zaha Hadid, Kelly Hoppen and some other designers that are not yet legends

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

IP : I like quite a few and each one for a different reason.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

IP : Always be informed about new materials and technology and work work work to achieve the best end result.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

IP : Maybe an architect

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

IP : My husband for sure!

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

IP : I ex boss and my stubbornness to be the best at what I do !

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

IP : There are no obstacles when you love what you do.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

IP : To get better and better. To be one of the best in the world!

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

IP : I am especially excited to work on a project in Ayia Napa Marina, in Cyprus

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

IP : It depends on the project (its size and if its residential or commercial)

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

IP : With the concept.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

IP : If you love what you do then magic happens!

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

IP : Very important