Spotlight Interview: Florentina Tsakiri Receives Second Brit List Rising Star Nomination

As Florentina Tsakiri secures her second consecutive Rising Star Award shortlist, we took the chance to catch up with one of TGP’s standout designers, whose creative vision has been at the heart of many of the company’s most ambitious projects.  

From transformative work in Europe reimagining the way F&B spaces function within communities and mixed-used developments, to forward-thinking design strategy that have informed our projects across the Middle East, Florentina gives us a glimpse into the ideas that guide her approach.  

Can you please give us a brief overview of your route into the world of Interior Design? 

I graduated as an architect in Greece and later earned a Master’s in Architectural Design from the University of Sheffield, which broadened my approach to design. Early in my career, I took part in architectural competitions, receiving honourable mentions, and had the privilege of working with award-winning studios, which offered invaluable experience and guidance. 

Over time, my passion naturally evolved toward interior design, where I could focus on crafting spaces that not only function beautifully but also evoke a meaningful atmosphere.

My design philosophy centres on blending functionality and aesthetics seamlessly, creating environments that feel intuitive yet inspiring. Whether it’s a modern restaurant or a dynamic food retail space, my goal is to shape spaces that elevate the customer experience holistically, making every moment within them feel intentional and impactful. 

How does it feel to a second nomination for the Brit List Rising Start award?  

"I’m genuinely grateful for this recognition—being shortlisted for the Rising Star Award two years in a row, especially among such talented designers and architects in the UK, is an incredible honour. It’s both humbling and inspiring to be acknowledged by peers whose work I admire. 

In the fast-paced world of design, it’s easy to get swept up in the day-to-day challenges, always focusing on the next project or deadline. We often forget to take a step back and appreciate how far we've come.  

This nomination is a meaningful reminder for me to pause, reflect, and recognise the hard work, dedication, and passion that have shaped each project along the way. It’s moments like this that reinforce why I love what I do and motivate me to keep pushing creative boundaries." 

Are there any key projects you’ve worked on over the years that stand out to you as key milestones? 

"One of my most memorable projects as lead designer at TGP was for one of four restaurants within a major hotel group in Saudi Arabia. The concept for this restaurant was to take guests on a sensory journey through the Southern Asian subcontinent, drawing inspiration from the rich history of spices in gastronomy.  

Visitors are immersed in an olfactory scentscape, surrounded by an elemental space that honours the tradition and ritual of spice, creating a dining experience that’s both captivating and multi-sensory. 

Another significant project completed more recently was a large-scale entertainment venue in Croatia, where I had the opportunity to design a new-to-market concept centred around competitive socialising.  

This space was designed to reflect and celebrate the local architecture, culture, and lifestyle, transforming it into a lively hub for the community.  

The goal was to create a fun, social environment where people could gather and engage in friendly competition, bringing a new kind of entertainment experience to the local scene.

On a more personal level I have explored expressing my creativity through photography and art using acrylic paint. These expressions although not directly linked to interior design have helped me switch the lenses through which I see the world and find new ways of inspiration."

What inspires your approach to design, both personally and professionally? 

"As a designer and architect, I’ve always been deeply inspired by the dynamic forces of nature, the timeless beauty of art, and the complex emotions, motivations, and passions that shape people’s lives.  

These ever-evolving elements continuously fuel my creativity, reminding me that every project is a unique opportunity to connect with something bigger. I approach each design with a fresh perspective, letting the project’s individual context guide the process and ensuring that the result is authentic and meaningful. 

On a more personal level, my greatest role model has been my father. Although he isn’t a designer in a technical sense, his innate love for design has had a profound influence on me.  

He taught me that true creativity comes from within and that inspiration can be found in the smallest details of everyday life. Whether it’s the texture of a material, the way light interacts with a space, or the cultural nuances that shape a place, I’ve learned to see the world with a designer’s eye.  

Like my father, I aim to stay open to everything around me, constantly finding new sources of inspiration that allow me to create spaces with heart, soul, and purpose." 

Are there elements of TGP International's creative culture that resonate with you?  

"As a team, we're constantly challenging ourselves to go beyond the expected, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with each project. Our goal is to create designs that are not only tailored to our clients' needs but also deeply reflective of their vision.  

For me, creativity and innovation are at the core of this process. I’m always on the lookout for fresh ideas and new approaches, ensuring that every project stands out, offering something unique and memorable. Whether it's a subtle detail or a bold design statement, I strive to make each space feel one-of-a-kind. 

Sustainability, in particular, has become an essential part of how we work. It’s no longer just a trend—it’s a responsibility.

So we always aim to make our designs environmentally conscious—from the smallest details unseen by clients to the bigger picture and overall presence of the projects.  

It’s about creating spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also have a positive impact, both for the people who experience them and the world around us." 

What advice would you give to aspiring designers looking to achieve similar recognition in the hospitality industry? 

"The path to recognition is rarely a straight line. It’s filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges, but each obstacle presents a valuable opportunity to learn and grow. In my experience, those difficult moments are often the ones that shape you the most.  

My advice to anyone on this journey is to stay curious—never stop asking questions, seeking out new perspectives, and exploring new ideas. Curiosity keeps the creative spark alive. Equally important is resilience. The ability to bounce back from setbacks and see them as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks is key. 

And remember, failure isn’t something to fear—it’s a vital part of the process. Every misstep is a lesson in disguise, offering insight that success alone can’t provide. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that you don’t have to navigate this path alone.  

Surround yourself with people who inspire you, who push you to grow, and who encourage you to be the best version of yourself. When you have that kind of support, those moments of doubt or challenge feel so much smaller in comparison to the possibilities ahead."