17 Fast Questions to Tatiana Gorkova

Designer-decorator Tatiana Gorkova and her architectural bureau GORSHKOFFSTUDIO are known far beyond Russia's borders. In addition, Tatiana Gorkova leads the Association of Designers and Decorators of Russia (ADDI).

How do you spend your free time?

I dedicate it to my family. I have three children, and I really enjoy gathering around a large dining table and asking who has had what successes. Indeed, now that the children have grown up and scattered across different countries for studies, this time spent together is all the more precious, such as during travels.

Designer Tatiana Gorkova with her family

How do you get into a work rhythm?

I don't need to get into a rhythm, I love my profession and I'm happy with every new project.

What are you currently working on?

After I was appointed director of the Association of Designers and Decorators of Russia, in addition to private projects and work on television, there has been a lot of work related to developing our association. Organizing conferences, round tables, competitions... We want to revive Decor Week with Natasha Barbe, and we are actively working in this direction.

Three main principles in working on any design project?

The ability to feel the client's mood and listen to them. Creating a clear action plan. Mutual trust. Only this way do you get beautiful timeless interiors.

Design trend that particularly inspires you?

Trend is such a tricky word… Trend is fashion, and fashion doesn't always inspire... What inspires me is art in the interior: paintings, sculptures, antiques. When they are present, the interior transforms, becoming individual.

Who is your ideal client?

A client who knows what they want and fully trusts you.

Designer-decorator Tatiana Gorkova and actress Valentina Talyzina

Share the simplest way to transform an interior?

Change textiles and add art pieces – for example, paintings. Moreover, you don't have to hang expensive paintings now; there are many ways to do it on a budget. For example, the technique of Zhikle – this is an exclusive digital print of masterpieces of painting and photography, made using inkjet printing.

Zhikle provides the best color fidelity compared to well-known methods of reproducing pictures and photos. Many collectors gather Zhikle alongside originals.

What can't you cut costs on during renovation?

You cannot save money on floors, doors, windows, and air conditioning.

Where can you save and cut costs?

For example, on soft furniture or a bed. An old sofa can be reupholstered, and instead of an expensive bed, it's better to buy an expensive mattress and make a custom headboard. Fortunately, there are many such workshops now.

Design: Tatiana Gorkova Name 3 items that must be in every apartment?

A well-equipped kitchen, proper lighting, and a large dining table where the family can gather.

Designer / Architect icon?

Don't create your own idol (Smiles.). I have many designers whose work inspires me: Jacques Garcia, Nancy Corzine, Juan Pablo Molyneux.

Design: Tatiana Gorkova Can a perfect interior be created?

There is nothing perfect in this world. An interior is like a living organism – it always changes, fills with art, new items that reflect the character and taste of the owner.

If you hadn't become a designer, what would you be doing now?

I have a dream of opening my own restaurant, designing it and making a top-class kitchen, so people would want to come there.

How to become a successful designer in Russia?

To succeed at anything, you need to dedicate sufficient time to it, first study and then work.

Book you wouldn't mind rereading?

"Luna and a Penny" by Somerset Maugham.

What makes you happy at home?

When the whole family gathers. These are the happiest moments in my life.

The best advice you’ve ever received?

Never give up on your dream, find ways to make it come true. Dreams must come true!

Designer Tatiana Gorkova