Special edition newsletter
REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION - Where Space Turns Into Opportunity
Kristina Kočanović, Divna Design: Our goal is to become a synonym for emotional luxury, a design that goes beyond aesthetics and becomes a way of life
(Photo: Nikola Vukilić)
As she pointed out in an interview for eKapija, Divna Design was born from a sincere desire to create spaces that have a soul - which are not only aesthetically appealing, but also honestly reflect the life and style of those who live in them.
- When I founded the studio, my vision was to combine functionality, emotion and aesthetics into a unique entity. In the beginning, I did small projects, but with a clear goal: that every space we touch becomes wonderful in the true sense of the word - warm, harmonious and elegant - she says.
The biggest challenge for a young designer who is building her own brand in Montenegro was to build trust, Kristina tells us.
- It was necessary to show that behind beautiful renderings there is a serious team that delivers projects to the end, on time and with impeccable details. The Montenegrin market is small and demanding, but that teaches you that every project must be top-notch. The biggest success of Divna Design so far is not a single project, but the fact that our clients come back and recommend us. This trust is, for me, the greatest confirmation of quality.
(Photo: Lazar Kovačević)
Divna Design is known for its blend of luxury, elegance and moderate extravagance — how do you find the balance between those three elements?
- Balance is in proportion. Luxury does not have to be overemphasized, but rather subtle — in materials, proportions, textures, in the way light touches the surface. I like to add a touch of extravagance through a detail — a piece of art, lighting, or an interesting piece of furniture — but all within the limits of elegance and ease.
There is a strong aesthetic consistency in your projects — how much room do you leave for clients to influence the final appearance of the space?
- In each project, there is a balance between my handwriting and the client`s lifestyle. I love when the client brings himself into the space, because then the design gains authenticity. My role is to translate all those desires into the language of aesthetics and functionality, to harmonize them into a harmonious whole. Finally, even though my signature is recognizable, the space always "talks" about the one who lives in it.
(Photo: Lazar Kovačević)
Do you think that clients in Montenegro and the region are increasingly open to contemporary and daring ideas in design? How would you compare the Montenegrin market with, say, Belgrade, New York or Milan, where you also gained experience?
- With the arrival of foreign investors, our clients are also becoming more open to more creative ideas, and they are stepping out of their comfort zone. Today, clients follow world trends much more, they travel, they find inspiration on the internet — which also makes them more open to new ideas. Montenegro, although small, has more and more high-standard projects and space for experimentation. Of course, markets like Belgrade or Milan are faster and more diverse, but in Montenegro I see an opportunity to shape an authentic style - a combination of Mediterranean spirit and contemporary luxury.
Do you think that there is enough space in Montenegro and the region for young designers to assert themselves in this sector?
- There is space, but also a need for more support. This job requires experience and great responsibility — because a designer does not only create aesthetics, but also the quality of life of people. Young designers must have the opportunity to work on real projects, because that is where the essence is learned - in real space and time, on real projects and with real possibilities and contractors. I believe that, with the development of the market and new investments, those doors will be more and more open.
(Photo: Anđela Perković)
What trends are currently prevailing when it comes to interior design? And how do you envision the ideal interior of the future — does it lean more towards minimalism, sustainability, technology, or something else entirely?
- Interior trends are closely followed by trends in fashion - what you wear today, you will very easily see translated into a living room tomorrow. Colors, materials and textures from the fashion world seamlessly flow into the design of the space. However, it is important to be measured and not get carried away by trends. I like that interiors have no fear of transience - to be contemporary, but also timeless, with a character that lasts.
I think the ideal interior of the future combines technology with emotion and sustainability - smart homes that stay warm, with soul and human warmth that cannot be digitized.
(Photo: Divna Design)
In recent years, a large number of luxury projects have been developed in Montenegro, and you worked on some of them yourself. How does it affect the sector`s development? And what did these projects bring to Montenegro, when it comes to your industry?
- Luxury projects have brought a completely new standard - in terms of quality, details, execution and aesthetics. This helped the entire industry to mature: from contractors, to architects and designers. I believe that we are all still on that path and have opportunities for even greater growth. As a studio, it gave us the opportunity to show that Montenegro has the talent and expertise to rival world destinations.
What projects are you particularly proud of and is there one that you would say was a turning point in your career? When you look at your portfolio — what would you say is the "signature" of Divna Design, the thing that is immediately recognized as your work?
- I am especially proud of projects in which we did everything - from the idea to the final detail, and when the renderings are identical to the photo of the finished state. These are projects that bear our stamp in every element. I`m from the coast, so projects made on the coast are always close to my heart. My signature is a blend of warmth and sophistication, a combination of natural tones, textures and light, with a dose of modern luxury.
(Photo: Divna Design)
What are the plans for Divna Design in the next years? Are you considering international projects?
- Yes, certainly. It is my wish that Divna Design goes beyond the borders of Montenegro and that we transfer our aesthetic signature to projects in the region and abroad. I am especially inspired by projects on the coast - places that have character and a story, such as Kotor and Tivat and projects such as Porto Montenegro, Portonovi, Luštica... In the long term, the goal is for Divna Design to become synonymous with emotional luxury - design that goes beyond aesthetics and becomes a way of life.
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"REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION - Where Space Turns Into Opportunity"
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