My first profession is business management, specifically in the banking sector. I first became interested in interior design seven years ago when I had to renovate a newly purchased apartment myself. The process captivated me, and as they say, I got hooked on this profession. The apartment, which we later rented out, garnered significant attention. People were curious about who the designer was, who planned it, and so on. Orders started coming in from friends and acquaintances.
Then COVID hit. I had a lot of free time and registered for a one-day masterclass on interior design. I loved it and became even more interested. I took a one-month course at the “Digital Industry Academy,” where I gained basic knowledge of design software. Tata Svanadze was my lecturer. After the course, I realized I was seriously interested in this profession and completed a one-year course at “Paradox Plus,” where I thoroughly studied the necessary programs.
At the same time, I underwent a traineeship with a friend at their company, “Valishvili Architects.” I undertook my first independent project while I was still studying. After completing that first order, I’ve had consistent work ever since. That’s how I became an interior designer.
My interiors have a recognizable signature, although my style has evolved naturally over time. When working, I don’t adhere to a specific aesthetic or follow one direction. I love combining vintage with modern styles, creating an eclectic mix. I’m constantly refining my work– my style may remain consistent, but new details keep emerging. Of course, the spaces themselves often guide me in determining the direction. I also need a certain chemistry and alignment with the client to create a successful project.
We purchased the apartment where I currently live before the pandemic. We began renovating it before I chose my new profession. However, after some time, we paused the work and continued working on the interior when I was already forming as a designer. This was an apartment created entirely without renderings or plans — everything was guided by intuition and heart. Ideas came step by step during the renovation. We combined three different apartments, completely stripped them down, and rebuilt the walls from scratch.
Since I work primarily from home, I spend a lot of time at the computer, so creating a proper workspace was crucial for me. We also love hosting guests, and this was another important consideration when designing the space.
My first project was in Old Tbilisi. I especially love old Tbilisi apartments with high ceilings and glass verandas. I always try to incorporate natural materials into interiors because I believe they bring life to the space and are more aesthetically pleasing. It just so happened that I became known as a designer of Old Tbilisi apartments, and without planning it, I carved out this niche for myself.
Generally, I’ve done many projects for short-term rental apartments. I think the reason I’m often approached for these types of apartments is that clients want spaces with character. When people travel, they seek adventure and something unique. I’ve captured that element in my work. These apartments shouldn’t be standard, white, and “modern” but rather reflect Georgian authenticity.
My favorite five features characteristic of Tbilisi apartments are high ceilings, wooden floors, wooden doors and windows with shutters, glass verandas, and painted walls, if I’m lucky enough to find them. Since our own apartment didn’t have painted walls, I hired an artist to paint them. Painted walls tell a story, and a home should tell a story too.
