Ewelina Jaszczurowska – an architect with a degree from Cracow University of Technology – and Michał Palka – a graduate in cultural studies from the Jagiellonian University. They decided to team up and together develop their shared passion for beautiful spaces. This is how TIKA DESIGN was founded in 2013 – a studio specialising in interiors featuring a cosy minimalist style. The unusual duo boasts numerous private, commercial and specialist interior projects, some of which have won awards.
Consideration for the space we live in
One thing that the creators of TIKA DESIGN have in common is the desire to be in beautiful and well thought-out interiors. Ewelina Jaszczurowska and Michał Palka have always focused on the surrounding space, its aesthetics and functionality. Their first interior inspirations came from foreign magazines. Through their work they try to increase the general public’s appreciation of the aesthetics of the interiors we live in. They dream of a growing awareness of the impact of space on our comfort and well-being.
Fusion of different perspectives
Although they both gained experience in various design offices for a few years before setting up their own studio, they each bring a different perspective of their educational background to their joint projects. The combination of architecture and culture clearly influences their projects and in many cases is an advantage. This is well demonstrated by both returning clients and the awards won by Ewelina Jaszczurowska and Michał Palka, including: first prize in the VASCO interior design competition and an award in the FUTUBETON competition.
What values and outlook guide your design work? What are your priorities in creating interior designs?
We are a company that was created for everyone thinking that interior design is not just about functionality, i.e. for people who are able to see the essence of the aesthetic qualities of the space they live in and where they spend most of their time. Designing for people who want to change or knowingly shape their own interiors is an opportunity for us to fulfil a dream and gives us incredible satisfaction. Our clients’ satisfaction is our main priority.
Do you have a favourite interior design style? If so, what kind?
Cosy minimalism best describes our designing style. We avoid an overload of forms and colours. We opt for simple forms, which create an interesting contrast to the space. We use soft colours and natural materials.
What materials and technologies do you most like to use in your projects?
We usually use natural materials: wood as veneer or boards and microcement or other decorative plasters on the walls. We also like plain monocolours and patterned tiles combined with solid colours. We often use contrast in the structure of materials: texture versus smoothness.
What are your experiences of working with clients? What do you think is the key to a successful collaboration?
Obviously, a similar sense of our own and our clients’ aesthetics is crucial. Equally important is a conscious approach to design, i.e. paying attention not only to the whole, but also to the detail. At the core is a chat with clients about their way of life and their private comfort zone.
Can you talk about one of the most inspiring/interesting projects you have worked on?
One of our favourite projects is a house in Bielsko-Biała. Its interior is quintessentially the style we want to develop. We were very lucky with the investors because our vision of their house matched their sense of aesthetics perfectly. Few adjustments at the concept level, excellent cooperation during its realisation and a consistent drive to deliver our concept made the whole look perfect. Having the investors’ confidence in us gave us the opportunity to ‘spread our wings’ and make our common goal a reality.
Do you offer a consultation service?
We do not offer a single consultation service. Instead, we offer end-to-end projects.
