With a bold vision rooted in innovation, sustainability, and contextdriven design, she speaks to The Region about transforming spaces into experiences — and why staying present from concept to completion is key to building a better future.
You’ve led Lotus Architecti and LAD 1 STUDIO through some of the region’s most ambitious residential and mixed-use projects. What would you say is the defining signature of your architectural approach?
My architectural approach is grounded in a fundamental desire to disrupt expectations and challenge norms. I don’t believe in following trends or doing what’s expected, for me architecture must reflect a deeper understanding of the place, the people, and the future it is meant to serve and for me each project is an opportunity to challenge conventional boundaries. We can challenge them through the materials we choose, the way we design the space, or how we reimagine functionality. For example, putting a 100+ meter pool on the rooftop of a hotel isn’t just about luxury but creating experiences that surprise and provoke. It’s about designing spaces that go beyond mere structures to create experiences that provoke thought, enhance well-being, and contribute to the larger cultural narrative. In the end, architecture is an act of creation, and that’s how I approach every project – by focusing on practical solutions that work for the people who will use them, both now and in the future.
From Savudrija’s Petram Resort to the dynamic “The One” project in New Belgrade, your portfolio spans high-end villas to urban multi-story complexes. How do you balance aesthetics with functionality when designing across such diverse contexts?
For us, the relationship between aesthetics and functionality is not a balancing act, but an integration of two forces that should be essentially aligned anyway. We design everything from private villas with views of the Adriatic to high-rise complexes in bustling urban environments, and we ensure that each project is tailored to its unique context by understanding the core needs of the space and the people who will occupy it.
Functionality is the backbone of any project, it’s where we root the design, but aesthetics is the way we elevate it. We believe that form should follow function in a way that amplifies the experience of the space.
Lotus Group’s operations (LAD 1 STUDIO & Lotus Architecti) extend across Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia, and even touch the U.S. How do regulatory frameworks and client expectations differ across these markets—and how do you adapt?
Operating across diverse markets requires a nuanced understanding of the specific challenges each presents — ranging from navigating different regulatory landscapes to aligning with varied client expectations. Each market demands a tailored approach, and it’s essential to grasp not just the surface-level differences, but the deeper context that shapes each project. The U.S. market, for instance, is driven by a very different set of expectations, not just from a regulatory standpoint but also in terms of client engagement and design aspirations. In the Balkans, we deal with the complexity of evolving regulatory landscapes, and often, a deeply ingrained way of thinking about urban development that requires a more delicate negotiation between creativity and compliance.
How do you see the responsibility of an architect when shaping the cities of the future, especially in a region where the identity of spaces is often disrupted by poorly planned developments?
Architecture, for me, is a fundamental tool for shaping the future, but with that comes also immense responsibility. In a region like ours, where development is often driven by short-term profit and hasty decisions, we face constant pressure to cut corners and focus only on immediate gains. But that’s not how we work at Lotus Architecti and Lad 1 Studio, we are efficient but we don’t believe in rushing projects for quick returns. Instead, we focus on designing spaces that are functional, thoughtful, and built to remain relevant.
We design everything from private villas with views of the Adriatic to high-rise complexes in bustling urban environments
For example, with the South Works 8080 project in Chicago, our goal was to revitalize an entire district, integrating a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces to support long-term urban growth. Yes, we’re asked to deliver results, but we believe that long-term value and sustainability are the true markers of success. Our role is to push for innovative solutions that respect the cultural and historical context of each place, while integrating modern needs.
You’ve incorporated sustainability, natural light, and space optimization in recent projects in Zagreb. What new design principles or technologies are you most excited to explore in your upcoming developments?
We’ve always focused on sustainability, but right now, I’m most excited about how new technologies can take that even further. For example, in our recent projects, we’ve explored energy-efficient systems like geothermal heating and cooling, which use the earth’s natural temperature to regulate a building’s climate. This reduces energy consumption significantly.
We’re also looking into smart lighting systems that adjust based on natural light levels, reducing electricity use without compromising comfort for the people that use the space. In one of our upcoming developments, we’re considering the use of adaptive facades that adjust based on the weather or the amount of sunlight to reduce energy needs.
How does your practice in project management differ from the usual approach in the region, and why do you believe it is important for an architect to follow a project through to completion?
In the region, it’s common to see architects involved only at the beginning of a project, and then they step back while the construction is completed. That’s not our approach. Our practice is based on the belief that an architect must be present throughout the entire process, from the first sketches to the final build. For me, project management goes beyond organizing and coordinating; it involves ensuring that the design vision is executed properly, with every detail considered throughout the entire process, and ensuring that the ideas we developed at the start are faithfully carried through to the end.
By being continuously present on site, I can address challenges in real-time and ensure that every element is executed according to the plan. I strongly believe this approach guarantees quality and alignment with the vision, because the architect has a better understanding of all the technical and operational aspects and can adjust the project when necessary.
Looking ahead, what does the future hold for Lotus Group? Are there new markets or project types you’re eager to explore in the next chapter of your journey?
The future for Lotus Architecti / LAD 1 Studio is certainly full of possibilities, and we’re certainly looking ahead, aiming for bold and impactful work. We’re increasingly focusing on larger developments, such as master plans that define broader urban spaces and contribute to the development of our coastline. These projects, especially those related to tourism, are often located in non-urban areas, where it’s essential to bring in complete infrastructure and integrate large-scale architecture into the natural surroundings while respecting the environment.
I’d love the opportunity to explore public urban spaces someday. Right now, we’re focused on building a strong team and strengthening our foundation. As we continue to grow, expanding into other EU countries is an exciting step I see in the near future.
