Recognized as a partner that can facilitate the process of arranging any space

In the case of Anja Filipec and Marija Gale, everything started from friendship. They were brought together by business and continued to connect through a shared entrepreneurial story. They decided to offer exactly what was missing in the market and what they assessed could be the right solution for furnishing. Thus, Trika 333 was born as a place where one can obtain a complete service for arranging homes and business and public spaces.

Filipec and Gale today represent numerous brands and emphasize that their offer includes many design classics. They highlighted that they can provide their solutions throughout Croatia and ensure transportation, storage, and installation in the client’s space.

What was crucial in the decision to establish a joint company?

Filipec: – It all started from a long-standing friendship as we worked together in the real estate sector for many years. When establishing the joint company, we were guided by the idea of providing clients with a comprehensive furnishing service during the arrangement of spaces, from the selection phase through procurement to delivery. Since we already had experience with investors and designers, we noticed a gap in the market where such a comprehensive service was lacking. We have gradually developed the company over the last 17 years, expanding our furniture and equipment offerings. Today, we collaborate on all types of projects, from tourist facilities such as hotels and restaurants to business spaces and residential properties. We represent a wide range of suppliers across different price ranges, and in addition to furniture, our offer includes lighting, decorations, textiles, and everything that involves complete furnishing. We are particularly proud of our team of people who have found their place for professional and personal development at Trika.

How did you tackle challenges?

Gale: – Challenges arise practically every day as each project is different and requires special attention and resolution of specific problems. We can say that the biggest challenges occur in projects that require the creation of very complicated pieces of furniture. In such cases, certain items are produced specifically for that project, which requires a lot of communication and very good collaboration among multiple participants in the chain, from designers to manufacturers. The process of developing from an idea to finished pieces that satisfy the investor with their price and design can be quite challenging.

How has the move to new premises affected the company?

Filipec: – We have been in our current space at Kneza Borne 24-1 in Zagreb for over two years. This type of showroom has allowed us to present to clients a part of our offer that is particularly dear and current, featuring brands such as Flexform, Gubi, Acerbis, Tacchini, Vitra, and many others. In our daily work, the Trika showroom has become a place for meetings, presentations, and socializing. The environment of Park Kneževa, with its exceptional architecture and pleasant ambiance, brings a special quality to our daily work.

Which design brands do you represent?

Gale: – We represent a large number of European brands across different price ranges and styles. We would highlight Flexform, Vitru, Miniforms, Gervasoni, &Tradition, Muuto, Pianca, and Tacchini. Since we have chosen an approach in our work that focuses on ensuring that the project we are working on is completed in accordance with the designer’s and architect’s ideas, while also fitting the investor’s needs in terms of price and quality, we collaborate with brands depending on the requirements of each project and constantly seek new sources of supply.

Why is Scandinavian design so special and widely accepted?

Filipec: – We have years of successful collaboration with relevant and popular Scandinavian brands such as &Tradition, Ferm Living, Gubi, Audo Copenhagen, NORR11, Muuto, New Works, and others. Scandinavian design is oriented towards functionality and the warmth of home, with a tradition and invaluable experience in design. Each piece is conceived and crafted with the intention of being inherited by generations and remaining a lasting value in the space it occupies. Scandinavian furniture does not lose value with use and is, in itself, a kind of investment. Moreover, with its timeless simplicity, most Scandinavian furnishings easily fit into various styles and purposes of spaces.

What is important to achieve in residential environments, and what in business and public spaces?

Gale: – In residential environments, it is important to ensure that residents feel good, safe, and that the space provides a sense of home and relaxation. It is crucial to ensure that the pieces of furniture that are most frequently used are comfortable and functional. It is important that items such as armchairs in the living room, dining chairs, and beds meet these requirements. It is essential that the space as a whole reflects the taste and spirit of the residents, enriching their daily lives.

Filipec: In business and public spaces, it is important to ensure that employees and visitors feel welcome and comfortable. Depending on the purpose of the space, it is crucial that the furnishings meet functionality and aesthetics while fitting within the designated budget.

How do you prepare furnishing solutions?

Gale: – The process usually starts with contact with the designer and architect to understand the project’s and investor’s requirements. For each individual item, we prepare several options at Trika that come together into a harmonious whole during the selection process. It is important to us that before placing an order, the client has comprehensive information about models, finishes, prices, and delivery times, so they can clearly plan all possible costs, timelines, and project completion.

What types of requests do you most often encounter?

Filipec: – Clients who approach us come from various segments and from the beginning recognize us as someone who can facilitate the process of arranging any space. We strive to provide each client with personalized service and assistance in selecting and combining individual pieces and materials to make the furnishing process as pleasant and inspiring as possible. It is important to us that the selection of furniture proceeds with as little stress as possible, and in that sense, there are no unfeasible requests.

How are the most luxurious residences or hotels furnished?

Gale: – From our experience, we can say that there is no difference in the process of furnishing projects at any price level. Every investor, regardless of budget, seeks the same attention, as well as the right relationship between price and quality that fits the project. The approach and effort we put into supporting the client are always the same, whether they are purchasing a single piece of furniture to complete an office or apartment or furnishing a hundred rooms in a luxury hotel.

How much do trends influence you? Is it really necessary to follow them?

Filipec: – Every job involving design is certainly influenced by trends. In our case, they change somewhat slower than, say, in fashion, but we notice quite a few so-called microtrends that come and go quickly. We do not consider it necessary to follow trends. We dare to advise clients that built-in equipment and larger pieces of furniture should be timeless and fundamental, while details, decorations, or textiles can follow trends and undergo more frequent changes. Overall, regardless of trends, the Trika team will strive to find the right solution for each project and remain a reliable partner in the world of interiors.