Teamwork makes the dream work, and at D5 MAG, we believe our team is nothing short of extraordinary. As part of our series introducing the brilliant minds behind the scenes, we’re thrilled to welcome Tina, our editorial writer. With her unique journey, passion for design, and knack for storytelling, Tina brings a fresh perspective and unmatched creativity to our publication.
From her early days exploring iconic architecture with her father to her professional pivot from tourism to editorial writing, Tina’s journey to D5 MAG is full of interesting twists. Passionate about sustainability, thoughtful design, and creating spaces that feel like home, and when she’s not writing, Tina loves to travel, explore nature, and try new recipes in the kitchen.
Let’s get to know her a little better, starting with how she found her way to D5 MAG!
Can you tell us about your journey to becoming the editorial writer at D5 MAG?
Over the past few years, I’ve worked as a writer for various magazines, and most recently, I served as the editor for an online magazine dedicated to working moms, also known as “momagers”. While the experience was rewarding and unique, I ultimately realized it wasn’t the right fit for me.
Design and architecture have been passions of mine since childhood, so when I came across an opening at D5 Mag shortly after leaving my previous role, it felt like fate. I’m thrilled to be part of this incredible team and excited about all the opportunities that lie ahead.
After a decade in the tourism industry, you transitioned into writing. How did that shift help shape your approach to editorial work, particularly in the fields of design and sustainability?
Life has an interesting way of surprising us. When the coronavirus pandemic turned the world upside down, it also directly affected my career in tourism. With the uncertainty of whether I’ll still have a job to come to, I started exploring other opportunities. Around the same time, a new online magazine dedicated to sustainability was launching. Since I was very passionate about the topic, a friend who knew this about me and had worked there asked me to write for them. To my surprise, not only did I enjoy it, but I also discovered I wasn’t half bad.
Fast forward a few years, after writing for a few more different online magazines, it culminated in me becoming editor-in-chief. Along the way, I realized that strong management experience is incredibly versatile. My time as a hostel manager prepared me well for this transition. Skills like organizing teams, managing marketing and PR, coordinating events, and communicating with suppliers, guests, designers, and web developers all translated perfectly into the publishing world. It’s all about understanding how to manage people, processes, and creativity – just in a different industry.
What made the journey even more rewarding was my personal connection to sustainability and design. When you genuinely care about something, the work feels more purposeful and thoughtful rather than just a task to complete. That passion has been a driving force, making the challenges of this role both enjoyable and fulfilling.
Growing up with an architect father, how did this influence your personal style or appreciation for design in your own living spaces today?
I still vividly remember sitting in my dad’s office as a little girl, probably no older than seven, sketching interior designs for a house. Even then, I was captivated by the world of design. It’s the first thing I notice wherever I go, whether it’s a city, a café, a museum, or a hotel. I find immense joy in discovering beautiful spaces and deeply appreciate thoughtful design. My dad played a big part in shaping this passion by taking us on trips to explore iconic architecture around the world and filling our home with a library of architecture books. Those experiences left a lasting impression on me.
Interestingly, my personal style evolved as a response to this upbringing, though not in the way you might expect. My dad, a passionate traveler, loved collecting items from his journeys, turning our home into what felt like a gallery – brimming with art and trinkets from around the globe. While it was fascinating, I found it overwhelming, which is why I’ve embraced minimalism. I prefer clean, uncluttered spaces that feel calm and intentional.
My minimalist philosophy is also rooted in my commitment to sustainability. I believe we don’t need to own so much. Most people I know feel burdened by the amount of things in their homes, constantly decluttering only to create more waste. Instead, I think we should approach buying and decorating with more care and moderation, focusing on meaningful choices that serve both our needs and the planet.
What new design trends are you currently interested in, and what about them captures your attention?
Although sustainable design and minimalism have become trendy in recent years, they’ve always been my preferred choice. I gravitate toward natural materials like stone, wood, and brick, as well as natural fabrics. I consciously avoid plastics in design, fashion, and interiors whenever possible.
That said, I’m not all about strict minimalism or overly clean aesthetics. I love spaces with character and color. Recently, I’ve been inspired by bold designs that incorporate vibrant colors, rich textures, and artistic statement furniture. When done right, these spaces don’t feel cluttered; instead, they have a perfect balance between homey and artsy. While I personally lean toward earthy tones when adding color, I love the new trends that include bold colors, color drenching, rich textures, statement furniture as well as statement lighting.
In my own space, I decorate with books, plants, wall art, cozy blankets, candles, and warm, mood-enhancing lighting like salt lamps, for instance, which create such a soft, comforting glow. If I were designing a home, I’d prioritize large windows (something Croatia desperately needs more) and integrated outdoor living areas. Ultimately, for me, the essence of good design comes down to sustainability, comfort, and creating a space that feels like a sanctuary.
Beyond your professional life, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I absolutely love traveling and exploring new places; it’s one of the things that brings me the most joy. Whenever I have free time, I find myself researching places on maps, searching for hidden gems I’ve never heard of, and planning trips to discover them. I always make it a point to seek out the coolest design spots, bars, and restaurants in each destination; it’s all part of the adventure.
When I’m not traveling, I love spending time in nature. Being outdoors always feels incredible, whether it’s exploring new parks, forests, lakes, or rivers. At the same time, I equally enjoy cozy moments at home with my husband and our dog, curled up watching movies.
I’m also passionate about cooking and experimenting with new recipes, and I occasionally write just for myself – it’s a great creative outlet. I love trying new things, whether it’s a sport, a ceramics or painting class, a fascinating documentary, or a book that teaches me something new. For me, life is all about curiosity, discovery, and embracing new experiences.
