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studio

The name Kalli is rooted in the Greek kalós, meaning beautiful, and kállos, meaning beauty. It reflects a belief that beauty is not a fixed aesthetic or a universal ideal, but something personal, shaped by individual experience, perception and the way we inhabit our surroundings.

For Kalli, beauty exists in many layers of architecture. It can be found in the simplicity of a strong concept, the proportions of a space, the way natural light enters a room, the honesty of a material, or the precision of a carefully crafted detail. From the earliest architectural idea to the finest junction and the skill of the craftspeople who bring it to life, beauty is both an aspiration and a guiding principle.

The studio designs thoughtful, contemporary spaces that respond to the people who inhabit them and to the character of their setting. Each project begins with listening and understanding, recognising that individual needs, aspirations and perceptions of beauty are different. This understanding informs a design process that challenges assumptions, explores possibilities and seeks to create environments that feel both distinctive and deeply personal.

Nature and light are fundamental to this approach. Working predominantly within London’s dense urban environment, the studio places particular importance on strengthening the relationship between architecture and the natural world. Drawing on principles of biophilic design, the work seeks opportunities to introduce natural light, greenery, organic forms and tactile materials into everyday spaces. Attention is given not only to visual beauty, but also to the sensory experience of architecture, creating environments that promote comfort, calm and wellbeing while recognising the different ways people experience space.

Environmental responsibility is equally integral to the studio’s philosophy. Sustainability is understood as an evolving commitment rather than a fixed set of requirements. The practice remains attentive to advances in environmental design, materials, technology and building performance, integrating these considerations from the earliest stages of each project. The aim is to create architecture that is not only beautiful today, but responsible, adaptable and enduring for the future.

This sensitivity is supported by a rigorous understanding of construction, technical performance and regulatory compliance. Architecture, interiors, materiality and detail are considered as interconnected elements of a coherent whole, allowing creative ambition to be realised with technical precision.

Close involvement is maintained throughout every stage, from the earliest ideas through to construction and completion. A carefully selected number of commissions allows each project to receive the attention, continuity and care it deserves, preserving the integrity of the original vision and ensuring that design quality extends to the finished work.

At its heart, Kalli is a practice guided by the belief that beauty is not simply how architecture looks, but how it is conceived, experienced, crafted and lived in.

Process

Kalli- Architecture & Design provides a comprehensive range of architectural services structured in accordance with the Royal Institute of British Architects Plan of Work Stages 0–7. Our involvement spans the full project lifecycle, from initial briefing and concept development through to detailed design, statutory approvals, technical design, procurement, construction, and post-completion services.

Recognising that each project is unique, we adopt a flexible approach and tailor our services to suit the specific scope, programme, and requirements of each client. This ensures an appropriate level of engagement at every stage, whether delivering a complete end-to-end service or providing targeted support.

Central to our approach is the careful guidance of clients through the planning and construction process. We understand that this can often feel complex and demanding, and we place great emphasis on clear communication and transparency. At each stage, we outline key requirements, advise on additional consultant appointments where necessary, and establish realistic programmes and responsibilities.

Our role is to provide clarity, structure, and reassurance throughout, minimising uncertainty and enabling a smooth and well-managed process. By taking on this responsibility, we aim to create a positive and collaborative experience for our clients from inception to completion.

Maro Kallimani

Director

Maro Kallimani is a RIBA Chartered Architect educated in Athens and London. She graduated from The Bartlett School of Architecture in 2003 and subsequently gained professional experience in a number of London-based architectural practices. In 2006, she joined Foster + Partners, where she was involved in the delivery of large-scale, high-value projects, contributing to complex design and construction processes.

Prior to establishing Kalli- Architecture & Design in 2018, she worked for six years at Hogarth Architects, an award-winning London practice, where she focused on private residential architecture and developed a strong expertise in the design and delivery of bespoke, small-scale projects.

Her work has been exhibited at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and the New London Architecture Awards Exhibition, and published in several architectural publications.