Katarzyna Starzyk

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Katarzyna Starzyk ("KS") 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?

KS : 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.

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

KS : 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.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

KS : 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.

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

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

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

KS : 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.

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

KS : 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.

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

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

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

KS : 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.

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

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

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

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

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

KS : 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.

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

KS : 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.

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

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

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

KS : 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.

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

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

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

KS : 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.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

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

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

KS : 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.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

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

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

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

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

KS : 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.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

KS : 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.

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

KS : 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.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

KS : 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.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

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

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

KS : 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.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

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

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

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

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

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

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

KS : 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.

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

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

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

KS : "Design is for people, not the designer."

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

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

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

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

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

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

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

KS : 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.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

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

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

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

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

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

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

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

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

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

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

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

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

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

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

KS : 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.

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

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

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

KS : 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.

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

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

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

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

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

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

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

KS : 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.