What is your favorite material in terms of product-making? Why?

My favorite material is metal, because it can be shaped and tooled easily and thus gives me greater creative freedom. But lately also glass, either blown or blown and then cut. Its advantage is that the surface does not have to be further treated or modified. You can feel it from my work.

Did you have any role-models in your career?

Yes, I do. In the beginning of my career, it was Alvaro Alto; later on, Ettore Sottsass Jr. and Ron Arad; and now I admire the works of Jaime Hayon.

In your opinion, what is the future of design? Is there still room for innovation?

I have no worries about the future of design; it will always progress along with new technologies - this liaison always brings out new forms and practical values. The future of design is bright as it will always have a great influence on our lives because design is omnipresent, it's all around us; we are literally surrounded by it.

What about your personal home? Is it more stylish or more comfortable? Have you designed your dream-home for yourself?

Our house was built in 1929 and we have done its radical reconstruction and some additions in 2001. It is a stylish house and design-wise I strived to respect the period in which it was built and so I included components that characterize that period. I also strived to attain the atmosphere of this period in the design of its interiors; however, in achieving it, I employed contemporary elements of design. Approximately five years ago, I designed my own dream house, but it’s just stayed on paper and, most likely, it will just stay that way.

What's the main difference between European and extra-European contemporary architecture?

The world is more and more interconnected. Around the world, modern technologies bring creators closer and closer to each other. That’s why I perceive architecture as world architecture, but with territorial differences: north – south east – west. That’s why such architects as phenomenal Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry or Jean Nouvel can work on projects anywhere around the world.

How crucial is technology within the current interior design field?

Technology is, was and will always be crucial for shaping materials and for new methods, new inspiration, and approaches to the creative process.

What would you suggest to emerging interior designers?

It’s hard, if not impossible, to dispense advice just in general terms. Each of us is a personality who creates in a specific environment and that is certainly what forms and influences each of us. So, generally my advice is: “Look around attentively and carefully, learn your lesson from history, respect tradition but, at the same time, pay attention to what is new and inspiring and thought-provoking in your field world-wide.

What's the secret of your success?

Another question that can be answered only generally. It is talent, diligence, ambition, people who you meet during your career, luck and also crises that you overcome and that make you stronger.

INFO: www.bodahorak.com

PHOTO COURTESY: Boda Horak Studio