I build on trust

For every architect, something different is important. Can you tell us what that is for you?
For me, the crucial feeling is that my work has meaning, that the design gets realized, that we are all satisfied with the result, and that the building suitably complements and enriches the space. It doesn't matter whether it's a small family house, a public building, or a new public space. The goals always remain the same.

How did you get into architecture?
My great-grandfather was a builder, and I was very aware of the theme of construction in my childhood. I grew up in a house that my great-grandfather designed and built in the 1930s. I come from Eastern Bohemia near Náchod, where there is a construction vocational school. They were just opening a new field of study called "heritage conservation," which hinted at something more than just stacking bricks in bonds. After completing this program, it was natural to continue at the Faculty of Architecture. The first years of practical experience spent in the studio of Professor Bočan were also important for me.

Your range is very broad; can you choose a type of project or a part of it that particularly excites you?
Like all architects, we find the design phase and studies the most enjoyable. I say "we" because I collaborate on many projects with fellow architects, landscape architects, and so on. We try to leave the design phase to specialists and project designers. We also enjoy the realization phase. For instance, renovations are associated with a large amount of improvisation.
Each project is unique in its type, local conditions, and especially the person of the client or investor. If we have a good connection with them and personal chemistry works, that's the right prerequisite for creating something interesting. So far, we've been lucky; they have always been interesting people who care about the outcome. This applies not only in the case of private investors. When we visit a small village, the clients, namely mayors or deputy mayors, have a tremendous personal interest in ensuring that the village – its public spaces – looks good and that everything functions correctly. We really enjoy working for such people.

You also enjoy designing interiors. Does this apply to bathrooms as well?
For us, a house designed by an architect should also have an interior designed by an architect, although this is not always the case. Interior design allows us to complete the house down to the last detail, which significantly influences its quality and functional properties.
The architectural study determines how the house will be situated in its surroundings, how it will function and feel inside, and what basic materials and colors will be used. Detailed interior fittings, custom-made furniture layouts, and the selection of standard furniture, including choices like lighting, come later in the interior design phase. If this part is missing, the house is not well thought out. A person can happily live there for a lifetime and never realize that the house could better meet the needs of its occupants. And this is not a question of an unlimited budget. Even a modest house can be great if it is designed comprehensively.
Bathrooms are, of course, included in this and are extremely important. We strive to make them places of relaxation.

What is needed for the result to truly be worthwhile?
The ideal situation is when the investor or client comes at a time when they are still considering the construction of a family house. They have pre-selected plots and come to discuss it. We begin by selecting the right location, and the architect becomes the investor's guide all the way to moving in. As I mentioned, mutual chemistry is also important.

How did your collaboration with Perfecto design begin?
We're back to trust. I met Jakub Polívka (co-owner of Perfecto design, note from the editor) at a celebration of mutual acquaintances. The first realization followed, and then more. Today, I know I can call him anytime. It's no longer just a business relationship.

Studio Perfecto design claims to make architects' work easier. Do you agree with that?
Perfecto provides us with professional support. They either design bathrooms for our investors or provide us with professional consultations. Having someone to turn to who can professionally advise on how to properly match the current trend of brass finishes for faucets with bathroom accessories and sanitary ceramics is by no means a given. I always personally accompany clients to the studio. I often learn what is new in the field.

Do you notice any difference compared to other bathroom studios?
Simply put: personal approach, professional support, and good ideas. Many offer a basic 3D design for free; however, if Perfecto designs a 3D solution, it is thought out, accurate, presented well, and, above all, feasible. The design includes real furnishings, and someone has paid attention to tiles and flooring. These are not designs that merely aim to satisfy laypeople, but also architects and the building itself.

Would you recommend us to other architects?
Definitely, yes.

And what about family or friends?
My family also has a bathroom from Perfecto. As an architect, I prefer to try some solutions on myself first. :)

Thank you for the time you have spent with us; we greatly appreciate it.

> www.perfecto.cz/pro-architekty
> www.pavelsulc.cz

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Bathroom designs were created in collaboration with Ing. arch. Pavel Šulc and architects from the Perfecto design studio, Ing. arch. Alexandra Kaščaková and Ing. arch. Jindřich Kobr.