Living with Nature
In conversation with the founders of Koto Design, Zoe Johnathan, and Theo; on probing the relationship between architecture, people, and nature.
Words by Alison Choi
Photography by Edvinas Bruzas
The Koto studio, co-founded by Zoë, Johnathan, and Theo, designs modular houses, cabins, and sculptural small buildings, with each drawing inspiration from Scandinavian designs and their way of living, to connect individuals with the natural environment.
Photography Credit:
What do you think is the connection between people, nature, and architecture?
Z, J, & T: As architects, we have the exciting opportunity and conscious responsibility to create buildings for people to use and enjoy that reduce the environmental impact on nature and humans; allowing nature to inspire and be represented in each of our designs is essential. With each Koto product, our key aim is to connect people to - rather than disconnect from - the natural environment.
Living with Nature
Following the pandemic, many have begun to reflect on their homes and lifestyles. And as people are more eager than ever to return to nature to enjoy a breath of fresh air, the attention on sustainable architecture has also risen. The Koto studio, co-founded by Zoë, Johnathan, and Theo, designs modular houses, cabins, and sculptural small buildings, with each drawing inspiration from Scandinavian designs and their way of living, to connect individuals with the natural environment.
What sparked the idea for Koto? Why homes and cabins?
Z, J, & T: Drawing much inspiration from Scandinavian design and culture, we founded Koto to create the opportunity for people to escape to nature in the comfort of unique and beautiful, eco-friendly buildings. Combining quiet luxury with sustainability, our architect-designed modular homes and cabins aim to break the mould of traditionally designed and constructed new-builds and outdoor living; this has been a big driving force for us from day one.
Koto homes are innovatively designed, energy-neutral buildings that are carefully crafted off-site and have the utmost respect for the environment. Each of our cabin designs creates quiet getaway spaces that provide warmth, shelter, and an opportunity to be completely off-grid so that users can fully immerse themselves in nature.
What type of experience did you want to bring to the users of your homes or cabins?
Z, J, & T: We wanted to create beautiful sculptures that encapsulate any experience championing biophilic living, whether that be for individuals searching for a quiet-luxury retreat to reflect, or families escaping from their day-to-day lives in search of adventure at the weekend! Ultimately, we would like to create experiences that evoke spiritual and mental well-being for anyone who inhabits Koto designs.
Where do you call home now?
Z, J, & T: North Devon is home for us and Theo is based in Belfast, we feel incredibly lucky to have spent a lot of time taking in the inspirational natural lines of the beautiful North Devon and dramatic Irish coast.
Read the full interview in
New Norm Magazine Issue 04
In this issue we unfold a thread of personal thoughts and memories, streams of consciousness that influence their identities and narratives.
Featured interviews include Agnes Jonas, Barber & Osgerby, Instrmnt Applied Design, Gris, Klara Leidl, Koto Design, homework, WatchHouse, Ziu I. A , Onoko.
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