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In Profile:
JP Interiors Design

In Profile:

JP Interiors Design

Finalist: Residential Project (Over £20 Million) in The Elite Awards 2025

The Elite Awards
JP Interiors Design

Name: Ekaterina Yakovenko
Company Name: JP Interiors Design Studio
Position Within Company:  Interior designer, founder of the JP Interiors Design Studio
Website: www.jpinteriors.su Instagram @caterina_yakovenko

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc) :
I hold both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Project Management from the National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE) in Moscow. I later studied interior design at Central Saint Martins in London — one of the UK’s most renowned design institutions.

How would you describe your personal design style? :
My design style reflects my personality, way of thinking, and how I solve problems through aesthetics. It’s what makes my work recognizable. I see style as something that evolves — it grows with each project and each new challenge.

Where does your design inspiration come from?:
Inspiration comes from observation, culture, and travel. Nature is a constant source — its textures, forms, and colors are limitless. I also draw a lot from art history and design heritage, reinterpreting classical elements in a contemporary way. Local markets, crafts, architecture, and even street food can trigger new ideas.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense? :
Contemporary design is not just about beauty — it’s a response to real needs. It aims to improve life and create harmony through function-led aesthetics that reflect societal values.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. :
1. Sustainability and circularity — design must reduce waste and rely on recycled materials.

2. Inclusivity and accessibility — solutions should be universal, intuitive, and considerate of diverse needs.

3. Technology and AI — smart tools will streamline design processes and create personalized experiences.

4. Personalization — a bespoke approach remains key despite mass production trends.

5. Emotional design — spaces that resonate emotionally will become more valued.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be? :
For me, these Awards are much more than recognition — they represent a meaningful platform for professional growth, creative exchange, and connection with the global design community.
Being evaluated by respected experts motivates me to push creative boundaries and deliver exceptional quality. It’s a valuable opportunity to share ideas, gain visibility, and contribute to the dialogue shaping the future of design and architecture.
That’s why this award is so important to me — it reflects the values I strive for in my work and offers inspiration to keep evolving.

How important are the Awards? :
For me, these Awards are much more than recognition — they represent a meaningful platform for professional growth, creative exchange, and connection with the global design community.
Being evaluated by respected experts motivates me to push creative boundaries and deliver exceptional quality. It’s a valuable opportunity to share ideas, gain visibility, and contribute to the dialogue shaping the future of design and architecture.
That’s why this award is so important to me — it reflects the values I strive for in my work and offers inspiration to keep evolving.

JP Interiors Design
JP Interiors Design
JP Interiors Design
JP Interiors Design
JP interiors Design

What projects are you currently working on? :
I’m currently working on four large-scale projects, including two villas that will be completed this summer. Each one offers a balance between contemporary architecture and natural surroundings. I’m also developing a 1,700-square-meter private residence — a complex, ambitious commission that reflects the client’s character and lifestyle. Alongside, I continue furnishing and decorating private homes, where every detail is curated with care and precision.

What was your favourite project to work on and why? :
It’s hard to choose — each project carries emotional weight and a story. The most memorable ones are not always the largest, but those where full synergy with the client was achieved. Projects involving historical restoration or inclusive design also leave a deep impact. These are the moments where design becomes meaningful.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why? :
The biggest challenge is often human, not technical. I once led a project that involved balancing very different stakeholder visions — from the client and preservation authorities to contractors and engineers. Reaching consensus, defending the concept, and navigating expectations required diplomacy and persistence.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?:
I rely on a full set of tools and services to ensure an efficient and high-quality design process.
First comes professional software: CAD for drafting, 3D modeling for visualization, and BIM for project coordination. These tools help present realistic concepts, align with consultants, and prevent costly errors.
Equally important are reliable materials and skilled contractors. I assess materials not only by their visual quality but also by sustainability, safety, and compliance with current standards.
Finally, collaboration with technical experts is essential. Engineers, lighting designers, and acoustic consultants bring the expertise needed to realize complex ideas and ensure performance and safety at every stage.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? :
The next year will be a time of professional growth and creative development.
I plan to strengthen my expertise through new tools, courses, and international design events — staying ahead of trends to offer clients the most relevant solutions.
I’m also focused on expanding my portfolio and entering new markets, especially in sustainable design — a direction I see as essential.
Another priority is growing and empowering my team to ensure even higher quality and efficiency.
Finally, I aim to develop my personal brand through speaking, writing, and sharing knowledge with the design community.

Your favourite holiday destination? :
Italy — Rome, Milan, Forte dei Marmi, Sicily, and Tuscany. Italy is my passion and love in every sense — its culture, art, food, and way of life inspire me endlessly.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? :
Hotel: Portrait Milano — elegant, discreet, and exceptionally curated.
Restaurants: Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone and Ribot in Milan — both timeless and full of character.
Bar: 10_11 at Portrait — beautiful atmosphere and great cocktails.

Your favourite book, film & song? :
Book: The Forsyte Saga — I’m drawn to layered, emotional narratives.
Film: A Beautiful Mind — a story of intellect, fragility, and strength.
Song: What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong — always timeless.

Your favourite food and drink? :
Food: Spaghetti — in every form, with any ingredients.
Drink: There are too many to choose just one.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? :
Honestly — working. When I love what I do, it’s never really a chore.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would you alternative profession be? :
I would have become a doctor — it’s a profession I deeply admire.

Interior Designer: Ekaterina Yakovenko
Developer: AK&Victory Development
Construction Company: AK/Victory Construction&Devolopment
Photography: Sergey Krasyuk

JP Interiors Design have been selected as a finalist for The design et al Elite Awards 2025. 

JP Interiors Design
JP Interiors Design
The Elite Awards

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