The work of an architect is similar to that of a conductor.

Architect Jakub Chochola gained his first work experiences abroad, first in Eva Jiřičná's studio in London, later as an architect in Brazil. Both of these experiences significantly shaped him, especially the transoceanic one. The design style across the ocean is different than in our regions. Everything he learned on his travels was reflected in his designs for buildings and interiors at home. His perspective far exceeds the borders of our country.

When was your dream to pursue architecture born?

As far as I remember, as a child I didn’t want to be anything specific; I wanted to play and create something. I built various structures and models, and architecture crystallized from that later. It wasn't until near the end of my studies that I realized I wanted to make a living from it. A big thanks for this goes to my teacher, architect Dan Smitka, who deepened my interest in architecture.

As we mentioned at the beginning, you gained your experience, among others, in Brazil. How does the work style differ?

Everything is completely different there. For example, we designed apartment buildings with facilities for maids and nannies. Because it is warm there, thermal bridges are not a concern, but air conditioning is heavily addressed. People live much more outdoors, so outdoor spaces are essential. The design does not end with the design of the apartment or house, but continues into outdoor spaces. Pools were designed extensively since they can be used year-round. A significant difference was in securing buildings. Many of them were surrounded by wires, often electrified. It was only in Brazil that I realized how great we have it back home and how well life is in the Czech Republic.

What does being an architect mean to you?

I perceive this profession similarly to that of a conductor, who coordinates many people and sets the direction and pace. The work is very diverse. It teaches you to see things in context. It’s a multidisciplinary profession where design, art, construction, and technology intersect. At the same time, it overlaps with sociology, psychology, and philosophy. How a person lives reflects their values.

What do you focus on in your designs?

To ensure that nothing unnecessary remains in the designs and that nothing important is missing. Furthermore, that the apartments or spaces serve their users, both current and future. These buildings will likely stand here for several generations, and we try to keep that in mind. When a client comes with something we consider poorly thought out, we try to persuade them otherwise. The profession of an architect comes with responsibility. It’s not a fashion that you can simply replace.

What is your approach to designing bathrooms?

The same as to the rest of the house. For a bathroom to serve well, it should be easy to maintain. Every item should have its place. Objects should be hidden as much as possible to prevent dust accumulation. Nowadays, for example, we often design a laundry chute leading directly next to the washing machine, down a floor to the technical room.

How did you hear about the Perfecto design brand?

Usually, we recommend suppliers to clients, but with Perfecto, it was the opposite. A client recommended it to me.

Do you recall the first joint collaboration?

I remember the first visit to the showroom with clients from Pelhřimov. We were selecting tiles and fixtures together. Everything went so smoothly that we started sending subsequent clients there alone. Usually, it looks like we design the concept, layout, color scheme, and formats of the tiles, and Perfecto fine-tunes the details, selects specific items, and does the grouting.

Does this studio differ from others in any way?

Yes, clients are usually thrilled with the collaboration, and those who build more than one project are happy to return.

How do you perceive the mutual collaboration?

I perceive it as excellent. Perfecto makes our work easier and more enjoyable. For example, the grouting is done already with specific products. They often come up with improvements that we wouldn’t even think of. They always respect the design as such; they don't try to redesign it but instead add some added value.

We are adding visualizations of bathrooms to the interview, which were contributed by Ing. arch. Alexandra Kaščaková and Ing. arch. Jindřich Kobr. What did the collaboration look like?

Just as I hinted. We sent the clients to Perfecto with a basic idea and a clear conscience. The studio took care of everything else.

Would you recommend Perfecto design to your customers or colleagues?

The conditional mode is completely unnecessary because both I and my colleagues do that.

Thank you very much for the interview; we appreciate your time.

Thank you also for the opportunity to share our experiences.

Important links:
https://www.perfecto.cz/pro-architekty
www.jakubchochola.cz