UNIO ARQUITETURA, a fierce Brazilian Based Architecture firm
BASED IN: BRAZIL
Tell us a little bit about your UNIO Arquitetura. How did you get started on your business?
Our office develops architecture and interior design projects in Recife, Pernambuco as well as in the countryside. Our projects always prioritize the client’s individuality and the use of creativity, technicality and sustainability.
We are 4 co-founders who graduated college together in 2011 with the pre-existing idea of starting our own business. So, one year later we left our jobs and started working together.
We didn't have much support and the initial investment was really low, so the first workspace we rented was very small and uncomfortable. However, in 2014 we moved to a bigger workspace in a good location with a rooftop and a beautiful view of the city.
What makes you passionate about architecture and interior design?
In the process of developing a project, we are able to combine all of our creativity and experience. To actually see the final result of what we imagined is extremely gratifying. It’s such an incredible opportunity to be able to fulfill our clients’ dreams, whether it be by designing residential or commercial spaces.
How important is it to have a supportive team when starting out?
We supported ourselves in the beginning and each person took on the responsibility of a specific work area. We learned a lot from this experience and even without additional support, we were able to grow as a business and eventually obtain the help from new team members.
What are the obstacles and rewards with owning your own business?
The main obstacle is market insertion. In the beginning, people are skeptical about you and the quality of work you produce. So, it's necessary to face the process of gaining your clients’ trust. In architecture and interior design, clients are looking for professionals with references and who are well-recognized in the area. So, building an identity can be a slow process. But, working according to your own values and beliefs and having your effort recognized are the best rewards.
What do you envision for the future of UNIO Arquitetura?
We want to keep improving our workspace to make it completely pleasant and comfortable. This way, we can expand our team which will of course add fresh ideas and abilities. We also want to start expanding the range of products we offer and explore new areas, such as the design of a furniture collection.