Milica Nešić is the newest and also the youngest member of our crew. She gained her specialized master’s degree in Novi Sad where she studied digital technologies, design, and production in architecture and urban planning.
By joining us in the Salt & Water studio, not only did she bring a breath of fresh air, but she also motivated us to further improve the use of advanced software for modeling and designing. This week we talked with Milica about what she likes the most about her job and what she usually does when not playing around with innovative applications.
Tell us something about the way you approach the design process in the studio.
All those tasks that come before designing one object are usually very interesting. That is when we define the goals and assignments when clients make their requests when we listen to them and try to understand their demands. Then, we shape them into our own design. We use those inputs as an initial inspiration while making the first sketches and models. Designing is not just a one-way process. It implies many changes and iterations, as well as a thorough research. This also includes reviews of every possible solution and used materials.
It could be said that you have instantly found your place in the team, like you were the perfect fit. So, what is your favorite part of the day in the office, now that you’ve settled in?
What I find most exciting is 3D modeling. I also like to work on the materialization and visualization of the original sketches. I like the feeling you get when your ideas start to get their final shape in three-dimensional space and when they become visible to everyone as a subject of further analysis and development. I also love visiting construction sites, if possible. I am always thrilled to see the progress made by the construction workers and how our own ideas look in real life.
You’ve only worked at Salt & Water for a short time. Yet, you already have some interesting projects under your wing. Can you name your favorites?
Boat design is such an interesting job because every project is unique and specific. The V+A superyacht interior design is one of my favorite projects so far. Designing its salon was a compelling task that required a specific approach. The application of parametric design techniques allowed us to design a unified wall with ceiling panels. Embedded in these panels is a specific lighting solution that provides a special effect to the entire interior.
Besides this one, I have to admit that my absolute favorite project so far was the contemporary façade design with which we participated in an international competition. We ended up receiving the 1st honorable mention which is a great success. The main characteristic of this project is the fact that it’s located between two well-known buildings of historic significance. Thus, our main task was to match the old style with a new one, choose the right materials, and preserve the genius loci.
What is your favorite design style?
I love minimalist aesthetics and try to follow the Mis van der Rohe’s famous saying “Less is more”. I tend to create spaces where the quality is gained by their functionality, the color balance and the sharp contrast between different surfaces, materials, and lighting. All of this could be accomplished without unnecessary details. I prefer using organic architectural shapes, like curved, fluid forms inspired by nature. Green design is also something I found valuable and inspiring, especially when combined with energetic efficiency.
The word is out that architecture was not your first love. So, finally, tell us something about your career as an artist.
I’ve been painting almost all of my life. I’ve participated in many joint exhibitions and also held two of my own. I believe painting is one of the crucial reasons why I decided to become an architect. I consider architecture an all-inclusive, three-dimensional art form. Therefore, one might say I have moved from canvas to drawing the world we all live in.
