Akurat is a unique design Studio in the coastal city of Gdansk, Poland. Founded in 2016 by designer Maciej Ryniewicz and his partner Rafał Kaletowski, Maciej Ryniewicz has been running the studio independently since 2022. Akurat name comes from the Latin "Accūrātus," which means "precise, meticulous, and discreet." It expresses the passion and attitude of the studio members towards their work, and they believe that these key factors can most influence the design process of the project and the overall design approach.

Yinjispace：How to present the design philosophy of AKURAT?

Akurat：I think we are too young of a practice to operate with a fixed philosophy. Each new project is a way for us to learn and gain new perspectives. I believe challenges, the way they are approached and dealt with, have a profound impact on us on multiple levels. Rather than a philosophy I would say we have a holistic way of approaching matters. The awareness that each new project is actually part of a larger whole almost forces us to do so. We look for outcomes that are original, context specific, often surprising but never random. We choose to work with people that share our values and who trust in design’s ability to make an impact.

Yinjispace：How do you promote your aesthetic consistently and create excellent works?

Akurat：Our approach doesn’t let us operate within a fixed and defined aesthetic. We are evolving creatures and clinging on to one specific style doesn’t seem natural to us. What at a glance may seem to be an ‘aesthetic’ is actually a byproduct of our design process. We strongly identify with our work and treat each new case with the same attention and engagement.

Yinjispace：What key elements should good projects have as you think?

Akurat：A good project should be a thoughtful answer. In order to find this answer, we need to formulate the right questions and listen carefully for clues. In our initial design phase, we tend to ask a lot of questions to truly understand the task at hand. We want to feel immersed in the subject we are currently dealing with. A good project should be context-specific. Rooted in the fabric of space. In constant dialog with its surroundings. A good project should be built to last. Natural and honest. Quality materials are always a solid foundation. Lastly, a good project should be timeless. Well aware of the short lives of trends, which seem to come and go at a continuously accelerating pace, try to avoid these style traps at all costs.

Yinjispace：If you ever counter clients with limited budgets? How do you deal with that?

Akurat：As a matter of fact, I don’t recall ever working on a project where the client had an unlimited budget. What may seem like a limitation, we view it as a challenge. For us such boundaries are often part of the definition of context and they actually help boost creativity. They often serve as a sort of additional source of motivation, a drive to look further.

Yinjispace：How to improve yourself in daily work? Do you have any tips?

Akurat：I think cultivating a good atmosphere in your studio is crucial. Building relationships that are based on trust and honesty that extend beyond the walls of your workplace is not an easy task, but it’s well worth the effort. After all, we spend so much time at work dealing with various obstacles, challenges, contractors, clients, and stress on a daily basis that a reliable and dedicated team is invaluable. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions and make mistakes. Constantly look for new avenues and don’t follow the beaten path. Question everything. Don’t forget to eat and rest. Travel when you can. Meet new people. Always remain curious.

Yinjispace：Your studio is located in Gdańsk, Poland. What influence does the culture and nature environment here bring to you?

Akurat：Gdańsk is actually part of the Tri-City region which consists of Gdynia, Sopot and Gdańsk. Three totally different cities, each with their own energy, character and story to tell. I think that the rich history and political significance of Gdańsk, eclectic charm of Sopot, and modernist character of Gdynia shaped a deep appreciation in us for the past. Nostalgia plays a huge role in our projects. We like to quote the past but render it through a modern filter. For us it' s a recipe for something truly unique, valuable and memorable.

Yinjispace: Do you know any Chinese designs? How would you describe oriental design nowadays?

Akurat：Asia as a whole is a place we have yet to discover in the future. Thanks to the internet and sites like Yinjispace, we are constantly being tempted by the high quality of architecture, space making, branding, and design. Though we have never been to China, we are aware of the rich Chinese culture and historical architecture, and we find its meticulous detail fascinating. We are equally impressed with how the challenges that are put in front of Chinese architects - the climate, terrain structure and density of the cities - are dealt with, and how creative and modern the outcome is. This fascination for us is what defines modern Orientalism, which is all about curiosity and admiration. We believe that thorough analysis is especially important in interior design, where basing concepts on other cultures is fairly common, to create something that does not simply mimic but rather embraces Orientalism in the most respectful, authentic, and appreciative way.