THE DESIGN STUDIO IN GREEK ‘KOUKOS DE LAB’ DESIGNS ITS WORKS WHICH BLEND TRADITION THROUGH THE ISLAND’S NATURAL RESOURCES WITH CONTEMPORANEITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
TEXT & PHOTO COURTESY OF KOUKOS DE LAB
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WHO
Koukos de Lab is a creative design studio based in Megalochori, a traditional village on the Greek island of Lesvos. Our mission is to introduce innovative materials inspired by the island’s natural resources.
WHAT
Koukos de Lab has embarked on innovative projects that blend sustainability, tradition, and contemporary design. Here are some highlights:
Koukoutsi Eco-Material
Koukoutsi Eco-Material: Koukos de Lab’s groundbreaking creation, Koukoutsi, is an eco-material made from olive pits—the so-called ‘bio-waste’ of olive oil production. By transforming this overlooked resource, they extend the life cycle of olive pits and contribute to sustainability. Koukoutsi can be used for furniture, objects, and surface coatings, both indoors and outdoors.
Lesvos Bench
Lesvos Bench: Inspired by traditional benches found in remote churches and old coffee shops on Lesvos, Koukos de Lab revived the Lesvos Bench. This simple yet essential piece of furniture combines elements from the past with modern design features, capturing the island’s essence.
Votsalo coffee table: Koukos de Lab’s latest product is an organic coffee table crafted from our signature Koukoutsi material. Silky smooth and inspired by the natural island habitat, it’s perfect for various spaces, where elegant design meets the tranquil charm of the seaside. Inspired by the natural beauty of island pebbles—’votsalo’ in Greek—these tables bring a touch of coastal serenity to your home.
Interior Design and Branding Concepts: Beyond materials and furniture, Koukos de Lab offers interior design services and branding concept ideas, tailoring projects to clients’ needs and dreams.
WHEN
We began our journey in 2021. Our innovative work revolves around sustainable materials, including the groundbreaking creation, Koukoutsi eco-material. This material extends the life cycle of olive pits and embodies the spirit of sustainability.
WHERE
Koukos de Lab has found its creative home in the mountainous village of Megalochori on the Greek island of Lesvos. This picturesque location inspires their innovative designs.
WHY
Our mission is to transform spaces through thoughtful design that reflects our clients’ needs and aspirations, while also considering environmental impact.
How would you describe your work?
Our work is characterized by a blend of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and sustainability. We strive to create designs that are not only visually striking but also enhance the user experience and are mindful of the environment.
What is your inspiration and guiding principle for each creation?
Our inspiration comes from a variety of sources, including nature, art, and the unique context of each project. Our guiding principle is to create designs that are both innovative and practical, ensuring that each project serves its intended purpose while also standing out creatively.
What project are you most proud of?
One of the projects we are most proud of is the creation of our Koukoutsi eco-material, where we were able to seamlessly integrate sustainable practices with cutting-edge design.
Koukoutsi Eco-Material
Which stage of the design process do you like the most?
The conceptual stage is our favorite part of the design process. It’s when ideas are born, creativity flows freely, and the foundation for the entire project is established.
If you could invite a ‘creative’ to coffee, who would you invite and why?
I would invite Norm Architects because their work has been a significant source of inspiration for me. Their approach to design and innovation resonates deeply with our own philosophy, and I believe a conversation with them would be incredibly enriching.
