Irina Stoica
Biography
ABOUT
I’m Irina Stoica, architect and co-founder of SelfDezign—an studio born from the desire to transform spaces into meaningful stories. With over 15 years of experience in corporate design, my true passion took shape in 2018 when I started SelfDezign with Toni Bunaiașu. Here, creativity meets a deep understanding of user psychology, making each project a unique journey. We begin with a blank canvas, listening first to who the client is and what they truly need, before designing the path forward. Architecture, to me, isn’t just about materials—it’s about creating stages for people to write their stories. Our goal is to shape experiences that enhance life, spark creativity, and reflect true identity. My values—authenticity, balance, sustainability, and respect for human needs—guide everything I do. Looking ahead, I want SelfDezign to grow through smart, sustainable projects that build not just beautiful spaces, but responsible architecture.
AWARDS
Premiul Gala Cariere 2024 – Gardienii Patrimoniului: Premiul pentru conservarea patrimoniului național, în special în domeniul arhitectural
SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE OFFICE
SelfDezign is an Architectural practice, specialized in commercial and office fit-outs, product design and visual identity aligned with the business objectives. SelfDezign converts the personality of the client/brand into interior design and facilitates its implementation. Founded in 2018 by Irina Stoica and Toni Bunaiașu, the office concentrates today a hub of experts with complementary skills, united by the passion for consumer psychology and deep understanding of the market.
AWARDS OF THE OFFICE
• Remarkable Awards 2024 Retail & Horeca Category Winner Bucharest Comfort Suites Hotel
• Top Hotel Awards, Bucharest, Romania 2024 Best Upgrade for a Hotel – Silver Award Ibis Styles, Venus
• Bienala Nationala de Arhitectura 2023 Marele Premiu al secțiunii Arhitectură de interior (ex aequo): Istorie renascută – Cafeneaua Veche 9
PROJECTS TO BE PRESENTED DURING THE EVENT
Project #1: Hotel Ibis Styles, Venus
Project #1 Category: Bars & Restaurants. Hotels
Start year: 22.11.2024
The redesign of the Ibis Styles Venus Hotel revitalizes a 1971 building in Venus resort, setting a new standard for sustainability and creativity. Completed in just 8 months, the project aimed to attract young families and millennials to a traditionally older clientele. The “Jungle” theme was woven throughout the hotel’s 180 rooms, corridors, and communal spaces, featuring playful elements like animal-printed carpets, monkey-shaped lights, and murals blending classical art with pop culture. Sustainability was key, with 70% of the original furniture and finishes reused. Facades were refreshed with vibrant colors, 2,000 new trees and shrubs were planted, and a cactus garden was added. Despite budget constraints, the project integrated old and new elements, receiving positive feedback from guests and media. This transformation positioned the hotel as a vibrant family destination and redefined the Black Sea vacation experience.