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Interview with Renos Constantinou |
Home > Designer Interviews > Renos Constantinou |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Renos Constantinou (RC) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Renos Constantinou by clicking here.
FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
RC: I was born in Nicosia, Cyprus. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture, RIBA 1 from University of Greenwich, UK. He continued further his postgraduate academic studies at University of Brighton UK, RIBA 2 and completed his studies at BME University, where he has obtained his master degree in Architecture and Architecture Engineer. Renos started his career in 2006 in London, UK where he was working at two well established and reputable architectural companies, ZahaHadid UK and Scott Brownrigg (SB), which are one of the largest and most successful international architectural firms. During his employment in London at ZAHA HADID UK, he was part of the team working on the following projects: BUSINESS BAY. MIXED – USE DEVELOPMENT COMPETITION, SKYCRAPERS IN DUBAI (DANCING TOWERS) SPACE FOR ARTISTIC CREATION CORDOBA, SPAIN OLYMPIC SWIMMING STADIUM 2012, LONDON, UK ELEFTHERIA SQUARE AND SOURROUNDINGS NICOSIA, CYPRUS. At SCOTT BROWNRIGG (SC) he had the opportunity to work on large scale Hospitality and Leisure projects, such as: AFRODITE HILLS HOLIDAY VILLAGE, PAFOS, CYPRUS NICOSIA TOWER MEDITERRANEAN HOTEL, LIMASSOL, CYPRUS EDEN HOUSE, UK Renos returned to Cyprus and joined to ACA’s Architects (Andreas Constantinou and Associates Architects – Engineers, Since 1980) in 2011 as a Senior Design Architect. He is currently team leader on various small to large scale architectural projects in diverse fields such as, residential, medical/health, office buildings, showrooms and many other different projects, involving renovation, recreation, interior design, extensions and restorations. As a team architect he was involved in several other projects, such designing of Sport Centres, Defense facilities, Squares and more. As a Senior Design Architect he is responsible for architectural drawings, interior design, contract administration, and supervision of construction. Renos is passionate about way architectural sculpts and the built environment can transform people’s lives in a long-lasting and emotionally significant way. His drive for great design comes from the charge he has given himself: never stop improving the world we live in. The moment when I saw my name at the Design Museum in London I felt rewarded and forgot the 24/7 hard working lifestyle. All these years there I learned how to work on large scale projects and the importance of teamwork
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
RC: ACA Architects , was founded in 1980 by Andreas Constantinou with a goal to provide high quality design and deliver a complete package design to our clients, combining Architecture and every field of engineering design necessary for the completion of the design of the project. Through these years, our company is very well established in the Cyprus market and it’s widely acknowledged within the professionals and others. Our name is considered as a synonym of quality, efficiency, effectiveness, expertise and good management practices. We dare to create great places and spaces that are beneficial for every use. Today, Andreas Constantinou & associates, Architects – Engineers-Valuers (ACA Architects) , employees a number of experts and professionals as Architects, Engineers, draftsmen, support staff as well as other associates with over 120 years combined experience. Through these almost 40 years of presence, ACA Architects have designed a big number of projects that were created by the dynamic team of ACA Architects. The last 10 years, the addition of two new Senior Design Architects-Partners, Renos and Angela Constantinou, Architects that studied and also worked abroad, has pushed and enhanced more, the contemporary, cozy and warm spaces creations which has further expanded the design identity of our Design firm. Hard work, knowledge, dedication, respect for our clients and our high quality standards in place, have made our company one of the most prestigious consultancy firms in Cyprus. Our work is respected across multiple sectors from commercial and workplace, to culture and residential. We have been widely recognized and published for our contribution to architecture and interior design.
FS: What is "design" for you?
RC: Our team consists of architects, interior designers, lighting designers, civil engineers and others. Good collaboration and teamwork is of high importance as everyone has to give something different and unique to the design. What I ask of the team is to let their creative ideas alive and to create with their hearts. I am satisfied with my team and happy that we can all coexist in the office with my family and my colleagues. The ‘oldGen’ with the ‘nextGen’. My father gives us his own ideas and experience and the nextGen puts its own elements. Both of my siblings work at the office my sister is an architect and my brother is a civil engineer. We joined the office over the past 15 years as directors and team leaders. We feel huge responsibility to carry on the business and the operation of the office which was established 45 years ago by our father, Andreas Constantinou at the highest level and to preserve its legacy. Our office is considered as one of the bests in the country. We are motivated by what is best for the project and client, and we are skilled enough to make what is best for architecture and we bring ideas to the table that have value. We bring them into practice and make them part of the project and client culture.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
RC: Sustainability was a key factor in the design of the house, emphasizing solar protection, natural ventilation and the use of photovoltaic / solar panels. The swimming pool was placed adjacent to the living room, for natural cooling The building’s placement enhances natural ventilation and lighting, and large openings add to the connection between inside and out. The design of the building façade appears opaque, dressed in adjustable aluminum strip cladding from top to bottom. This custom design device allows ventilation and protects the residence privacy. The aluminum panels play an important role in the passive cooling of the interior and, during the night, provide insulation from moisture.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
RC: ND House The 280m² private house in the outskirts of greater Nicosia was designed to feature contemporary aesthetics, acquiring permanence with the use of timeless materials. Concurrently, the house caters to the needs of a family of four, facilitating communication and comfort. The building elements are clear and concise in their geometry and the form is complemented by large openings and vertical blinds. The ground level accommodates the living quarters, open towards the swimming pool and the garden. Wide openings spanning the entire height maintain the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, while comfortable sheltered open air areas benefit from shading system to provide pleasant outdoor living conditions during the summer months. The first level contains the bedrooms and laundry area. The staircase becomes the main compositional element of the house interior. The building’s placement enhances natural ventilation and lighting, and large openings add to the connection between inside and out. The architect Renos Constantinou chooses to design the building façade appears opaque, dressed in adjustable aluminum strip cladding from top to bottom. This custom design device allows ventilation and protects the residence privacy. The aluminum panels play an important role in the passive cooling of the interior and, during the night, provide insulation from moisture. Sustainability was a key factor in the design of the house, emphasizing solar protection, natural ventilation and the use of photovoltaic / solar panels. The swimming pool was placed adjacent to the living room, for natural cooling
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
RC: Residential buildings and was a team member of the Cyprus presidential building of EU
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
RC: This is a very important question thank you for asking. We give emphasis on new methods and technology to revitalize our services. We start working on site analysis using drone scanning. In addition, using them for site scanning and feedback during the construction process, even taking the incorporation of drone scanning a step further by integrating drone data feedback loops into their design practice. 3D printing is one of technology’s most revolutionary innovations, with the potential to change the face of so many industries including architecture. When presenting to clients or exploring design in further details, creating a 3D-printed model can help both designers and clients see a clearer picture of the project, seeing how a design interacts with its surroundings. Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout the design process helps to improve quality and accelerates design processes with integrated workflows for concept design, modeling, multidiscipline coordination, and construction.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
RC: When i am next to the beach
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
RC: The first thing that comes to my mind is the importance of meeting the client’s expectations and brining it alive. The first discussions are very important to understand their needs and budget in order to be able to design something which suits their lifestyle and accommodates their needs. Good collaboration is essential as well for the successful delivery of each project. I always listen to my clients and communicate with them openly about the projects and make them feel part of it.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
RC: . I try to communicate in a variety of ways, from transmitting information to inspiring others and coaching. Self-awareness and humility are paramount for leadership as well. The better you understand yourself and recognize your own strengths and weaknesses, the more effective you can be as a leader. It is important is to have empathy. In addition, treating people with respect on a daily basis is one of the most important things a leader can do. It will ease tensions and conflict, create trust, and improve effectiveness.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
RC: That means a lot to me. I feel very happy and proud and gives me the strength to look forward
FS: What makes a design successful?
RC: Communicate thoroughly and collaborate openly. We have a clearly defined process and we provide strong guidance and leadership. The a fresh approach to every project and our work evolves organically without the constrains of preconceived ideas, a stringent style or prescribed formula. Every project is unique.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
RC: Sustainability was a key factor in the design of the house, emphasizing solar protection, natural ventilation and the use of photovoltaic / solar panels. The swimming pool was placed adjacent to the living room, for natural cooling The building’s placement enhances natural ventilation and lighting, and large openings add to the connection between inside and out. The design of the building façade appears opaque, dressed in adjustable aluminum strip cladding from top to bottom. This custom design device allows ventilation and protects the residence privacy. The aluminum panels play an important role in the passive cooling of the interior and, during the night, provide insulation from moisture.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
RC: That is very good question. I give emphasis and for example at the latest design ''ND House'' as a mentioned it already, the house enhances natural ventilation and lighting, and large openings add to the connection between inside and out. The design of the building façade appears opaque, dressed in adjustable aluminum strip cladding from top to bottom. This custom design device allows ventilation and protects the residence privacy. The aluminum panels play an important role in the passive cooling of the interior and, during the night, provide insulation from moisture.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
RC: sustainability and smart home
FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
RC: The last exhibition it was in Cyprus at Hilton Hotel when we got a mention for a sport center design.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
RC: Since I can remember I always wanted to have a profession which has to do with creativity, creating and at the same time giving and contributing to the community. I feel grateful that I had the opportunity to achieve this and I am happy with my decision.
FS: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
RC: Modern and minimal design
FS: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
RC: In europe. Cyprus and Greece. I uded to make some Architectural tours and some times Architectural documentaries etc
FS: How do you work with companies?
RC: To make our firm a creative, fun, fulfilling and rewarding place to come to work each day and to promote the design and delivery of the built environment as a collaborative effort. We are motivated by what is best for the project and client, and we are skilled enough to make what is best for architecture and we bring ideas to the table that have value. After decades in architecture, interior design and planning, we’ve learned that outstanding work is built on relationships. We collaborate with our clients and we challenge them to think differently about their projects by asking the right questions. For us, real success is the moment when a client is presented with a design solution and says, “We did it.”
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
RC: The companies has to allow the designer to create something unique and stylish
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
RC: We bring innovation and leadership to every project. Our collaborative approach and integrated process ensure quality and integrity are maintained, and the project progresses smoothly and efficiently at every stage. We provide certainty for our clients and clarity for our project partners, achieving the best outcomes for all stakeholders.
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
RC: Architectural design, lighting design , interior design , furniture design and landscape design
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
RC: Let me start with the first part of your question Johnny which is even easier :) haha A good leader must have the following characteristics and I try to have them as much as possible. Good communication. I try to communicate in a variety of ways, from transmitting information to inspiring others and coaching. Self-awareness and humility are paramount for leadership as well. The better you understand yourself and recognize your own strengths and weaknesses, the more effective you can be as a leader. It is important is to have empathy. In addition, treating people with respect on a daily basis is one of the most important things a leader can do. It will ease tensions and conflict, create trust, and improve effectiveness.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
RC: They have to discover what they want to design. The have to focus and fine identity regarding design.
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
RC: Is very nice to create something but that makes you to have responsibilities etc
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
RC: HONEST + AUTHENTIC design language Every element is part of an integrated whole and contributes to the bigger picture.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
RC: APPROACH over AESTHETIC There is no predetermined style or model— we take a fresh approach with every project.
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
RC: This is a very important question thank you for asking. We give emphasis on new methods and technology to revitalize our services. We start working on site analysis using drone scanning. In addition, using them for site scanning and feedback during the construction process, even taking the incorporation of drone scanning a step further by integrating drone data feedback loops into their design practice. 3D printing is one of technology’s most revolutionary innovations, with the potential to change the face of so many industries including architecture. When presenting to clients or exploring design in further details, creating a 3D-printed model can help both designers and clients see a clearer picture of the project, seeing how a design interacts with its surroundings. Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout the design process helps to improve quality and accelerates design processes with integrated workflows for concept design, modeling, multidiscipline coordination, and construction.
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
RC: The concept idea is very important and you need to do it when you feel creative.
FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
RC: Is depends on the project type
FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
RC: This is a very important question thank you for asking. We give emphasis on new methods and technology to revitalize our services. We start working on site analysis using drone scanning. In addition, using them for site scanning and feedback during the construction process, even taking the incorporation of drone scanning a step further by integrating drone data feedback loops into their design practice. 3D printing is one of technology’s most revolutionary innovations, with the potential to change the face of so many industries including architecture. When presenting to clients or exploring design in further details, creating a 3D-printed model can help both designers and clients see a clearer picture of the project, seeing how a design interacts with its surroundings. Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout the design process helps to improve quality and accelerates design processes with integrated workflows for concept design, modeling, multidiscipline coordination, and construction.
FS: What was your most important job experience?
RC: When i was working at ZAHA HADID office and Scott Brownrigg
FS: Who are some of your clients?
RC: I have many clients. private sector and we have done some governmental projects as well
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
RC: Good collaboration and teamwork is of high importance as everyone has to give something different and unique to the design. What I ask of the team is to let their creative ideas alive and to create with their hearts. I am satisfied with my team and happy that we can all coexist in the office with my family and my colleagues. The ‘oldGen’ with the ‘nextGen’. My father gives us his own ideas and experience and the nextGen puts its own elements. Both of my siblings work at the office my sister is an architect and my brother is a civil engineer. We joined the office over the past 15 years as directors and team leaders. We feel huge responsibility to carry on the business and the operation of the office which was established 45 years ago by our father, Andreas Constantinou at the highest level and to preserve its legacy. Our office is considered as one of the bests in the country.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
RC: I believe in the potential of our scholars, scientists and with the available supplies and technology . Several studies have been done and we are preparing for it. The theme of floating cities is sparking interest all across Europe. In the Netherlands, the marine research institute MARIN has been awarded a grant by the European Union to research possible solutions. The institute is a leader of the “Space at Sea” project, which won 1.6 million in EU funding to come up with projects for floating cities over the next three years wherever it is possible to duplicate a lifestyle on land - from vertical farms to ports and parks. With this goal in mind, MARIN is adopting an urban model that can fit all of the EU countries that border the sea. It is a first step towards the urbanization of water, and a bet that could bring the dream of floating cities within the reach of everyone.
FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
RC: Me, my brother and my sister followed his footsteps and we learned and still keep learning a lot every day as we work in the same environment. He has 50 years of experience, over which he faced many difficulties and learned all the secrets of architecture in order to deliver the best results. Some of them are the following: To be committed to service our clients the best possible way, to the profession and to the community. To make our firm a creative, fun, fulfilling and rewarding place to come to work each day and to promote the design and delivery of the built environment as a collaborative effort. We are motivated by what is best for the project and client, and we are skilled enough to make what is best for architecture and we bring ideas to the table that have value. After decades in architecture, interior design and planning, we’ve learned that outstanding work is built on relationships. We collaborate with our clients and we challenge them to think differently about their projects by asking the right questions. For us, real success is the moment when a client is presented with a design solution and says, “We did it.”
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
RC: Our office deals with various projects such as residential, private luxury holiday villas in Cyprus and in Greece, apartments, hospitality and mixed used projects, competitions, interior design for restaurants and roof bar in Cyprus and energy projects such as photovoltaic parks and various other projects concerning alternative ways of generating energy.
FS: How can people contact you?
RC: They can visit our website www.aconstantinou.com and ACA Architects - Cyprus
FS: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
RC: You worked at 2 well known international architecture firms in the UK. What are your takeaways from there? I had the great opportunity to work at ZAHA HADID and Scott Brownrigg. During my employment with them I was team member of international large scale projects such as: •BUSINESS BAY. MIXED – USE DEVELOPMENT COMPETITION, SKYCRAPERS IN DUBAI (DANCING TOWERS) •SPACE FOR ARTISTIC CREATION CORDOBA, SPAIN •OLYMPIC SWIMMING STADIUM 2012, LONDON, UK •ELEFTHERIA SQUARE AND SOURROUNDINGS NICOSIA, CYPRUS. •AFRODITE HILLS HOLIDAY VILLAGE, PAFOS, CYPRUS •NICOSIA TOWER •MEDITERRANEAN HOTEL, LIMASSOL, CYPRUS •EDEN HOUSE, UK The moment when I saw my name at the Design Museum in London I felt rewarded and forgot the 24/7 hard working lifestyle. All these years there I learned how to work on large scale projects and the importance of teamwork. As the head of the ACA Architects, what do you expect from your team members? Our team consists of architects, interior designers, lighting designers, civil engineers and others. Good collaboration and teamwork is of high importance as everyone has to give something different and unique to the design. What I ask of the team is to let their creative ideas alive and to create with their hearts. I am satisfied with my team and happy that we can all coexist in the office with my family and my colleagues. The ‘oldGen’ with the ‘nextGen’. My father gives us his own ideas and experience and the nextGen puts its own elements. Both of my siblings work at the office my sister is an architect and my brother is a civil engineer. We joined the office over the past 15 years as directors and team leaders. We feel huge responsibility to carry on the business and the operation of the office which was established 45 years ago by our father, Andreas Constantinou at the highest level and to preserve its legacy. Our office is considered as one of the bests in the country. What makes special your architectural firm? Apart from the 45 years of experience, our office operates a one-stop-shop firm, providing all kind of services in industry such as architectural design, interior design, structural design, sustainability design, lighting design etc.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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