The architect behind our most impressive projects

Architect Irina Karlikova

Who is behind our most impressive projects?

Architect Irina Karlikova is the designer of some of the most recognisable KAGER houses. With her sensitivity to space, timber and light, she has helped create projects that best demonstrate the architectural possibilities of Vita Nova technology.

Having worked with us for many years, she has a thorough understanding of the exposed timber frame and glass surfaces that enable architectural freedom and spatial openness. She is currently collaborating on the design of two new timber villas—one in Slovenia and the other in Germany.

Below, we present three projects on which she has worked.

Projects that speak for themselves

A home in the heart of the forest, where the frame becomes the interior

In the Forest House project, the timber structure was subtly integrated into its green surroundings. Here, the frame does not dominate but spatially complements the natural setting. The house combines contemporary architecture and natural materials, with hand-finished timber playing a key role in the interior design.

Through precise craftsmanship and aesthetic refinement, the exposed timber structure becomes the central element of the interior. It gives the space warmth, character and architectural elegance.

For this house, she received the prestigious award for Best Home Interior at the 2024 Ukrainian Building Awards.

Timber-and-glass villa by the lake

Architecture that follows nature

The award-winning projects also include the timber-and-glass villa by the lake, for which she received the 2021 award for Best Architectural Design of a Private House. Its fully glazed façades and thoughtful minimalist design convinced the jury, who recognised the project as an exceptional combination of aesthetics and functionality.

This countryside villa stands on the shore, surrounded by a spruce forest, and was inspired by a traditional Bavarian log house. Because of the varied terrain, the architects incorporated a basement level, allowing the building to adapt to the site without unnecessary intervention in the natural environment.

The staircase was one of the more demanding parts of the project. Several versions were developed before the right balance between structural logic and aesthetic effect was found. The house’s finishing elements are completely coordinated with the surroundings: the colour of the timber beams and flooring follows the tones of tree trunks and bark, while the interior remains restrained so that the views through the glass walls take centre stage.

The house has two entrances: one from the basement and another from the living area, where the dining room opens upwards to a clerestory strip that fills the space with light and enhances the feeling of openness.

Vita Nova with a flat roof

Transparency and architectural openness

In the Vita Nova with a flat roof project, architect Irina Karlikova emphasised transparency and connection with the surroundings. The house, set in a pine forest, was designed with fully glazed walls that maintain uninterrupted contact with nature.

The interior is defined by marble-effect ceramics, carefully planned lighting and spatial openness. The 340 m² floor plan places the living areas and office on the ground floor, with two en-suite bedrooms upstairs. The glazing connects with the gallery, further emphasising the airiness and continuity of the space.

This is architecture in which natural materials and thoughtful design meet in a clear, contemporary interpretation of living.