KATERINA TRPSKOVSKA, NORTH MACEDONIA

Ambition alone does not open doors in the design world. Katerina Trpkovska discovered this early in her career, when entering the industry proved more challenging than expected. Born in Skopje, North Macedonia, in 1988, she studied Interior Design at the European University before pursuing her ambitions in furniture design and entrepreneurship, with a vision to bring new energy to contemporary Balkan design.

With limited opportunities in her hometown, she started working in a curtain and wallpaper shop, taking every chance to stay connected to design. Her curiosity soon led her to experiment with furniture, initially using basic tools before collaborating with local carpenters and eventually developing her own production capabilities.

This hands-on journey inspired her to establish Rinocca, a furniture brand dedicated to thoughtful craftsmanship, minimal waste, and objects with lasting emotional value. Her sources of inspiration are surprisingly diverse, ranging from architects Arne Jacobsen and Zaha Hadid to tennis champion Serena Williams and actress Meryl Streep. What connects them, for Katerina, is their ability to inspire and make a difference.

Today, she balances designing furniture with running a growing business, proving that creativity and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand. For Katerina, success is not measured in awards, but in seeing her ideas connect with people around the world.

Learn more about story of Katerina in Creative Balkans: Contemporary Furniture Design.

 “Furniture should be authentic, but above all, it must be useful.”

Name: Brazda Chair

Producer: Rinocca

Year of production: 2021

Dimensions: 46 X 53 X 78 cm

Provided for the exhibition by: Rinocca

Brazda Chair by Rinocca combines clean lines, ergonomic design, and the natural beauty of solid wood. Carefully crafted wooden joints ensure strength and durability, making it a versatile choice for both residential and commercial spaces.