SOCIAL MEDIA ZEITGEIST

 

Our Social Media Zeitgeist list accounts for some of most familiar names in UK & Irish architecture at the top. But standing shoulder to shoulder are some smaller but perfectly formed studios too, that have a diverting architectural approach, and a social media strategy to push it. As well as being a traditional architecture studio, working on projects through concept, planning and delivery, Koto Design have also developed an architectural product that offers bespoke timber cabins for prefabrication to their clients and customers. We approached them with some questions.

 

Beedier: Tell us about your work. What is it that makes you different, and why do you think that your projects are capturing people’s imagination?

Koto: We blend architecture, design, and wellness to create truly transformative spaces. Through innovative techniques and exceptional craftsmanship, each project evokes emotions and fosters memorable experiences for our clients. Our commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices reflects the values and trends of communities worldwide; we believe it is this unique fusion that continues to captivate people’s imaginations.

 

Beedier: Your brand is innovative, because it has developed the provision of contemporary architectural services, into something that more resembles an architectural product. What made you follow this path, and what are your reference points or influences for this alternative design route?

Koto: Our journey toward innovation in the architectural realm has been fueled by our deep passion for the outdoors and nature. We’ve developed high quality off-the-shelf and customisable spaces that can be efficiently manufactured and assembled off-site, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional construction methods. Drawing inspiration from modular design principles, eco-friendly prefabrication techniques, Japanese minimalism, and Scandinavian aesthetics, we persist in reimagining the architectural process.

 

Beedier: Do you think there are advantages to your approach, from a business development perspective, that perhaps give you further avenues of marketing that are not open to traditional architecture studios?

Koto: Absolutely. By providing modular and off-the-shelf solutions, we can scale our operations more efficiently, reaching a broader range of markets. Our product-oriented approach attracts private and commercial clients seeking sustainable and innovative design solutions. Moreover, the standardisation of our processes also ensures consistent premium quality, enhancing brand recognition and trust with our clients.

 

Beedier: Were you surprised to find that your social media performance puts you in the Top Ten follower counts of all architectural studios in the UK & Ireland? How important do you see social media marketing to your business success, and does your social media presence directly translate into commissions?

Koto: Certainly, It was a wonderful surprise! Social media has been crucial for our brand’s marketing efforts. Through our platforms, we’re able to reach audiences not just in the UK, Europe, and the USA, but also in places like New Zealand and East Asia. Besides word-of-mouth recommendations, social media and our online presence have been key in securing our projects.

 

Beedier: What do you think are the key factors in maintaining social media interest, and growing active and engaged followers?

Koto: In our experience, the key to sustained engagement and growth on social media hinges on establishing a robust and authentic brand presence. Our unique designs serve as a testament to this presence, igniting wonder and intrigue amongst our audience. Regularly sharing concepts of upcoming projects and content from completed ones invites our followers to journey alongside us, fostering community strength and enriching the bond between our brand and our audience.

 

Beedier: What is next for Koto Design? Are you building for growth and diversification, or are you happy to maintain a happy and sustainable small business?

Koto: While we cherish our identity as a sustainable small business, we are also driven by a desire to expand our reach and impact. With some incredibly exciting projects in the pipeline for 2024, we’re in the process of exploring new avenues for growth and innovation. Watch this space!

 

Koto Design are a studio that successfully merge architecture, branding, and production. In recent articles we have suggested that architects should not see themselves as the producers of commodity, from a marketing perspective, but Koto Design have disregarded this and merged their practice with the creation of an architecturally defined commercial product. It just goes to show that rules are meaningless, and designed to be broken when it comes to business development. Sometimes that distinctive niche can be what sets you apart, and Koto definitely seem to have achieved this.