During the pandemic, when isolation and the absence of nature became more palpable than ever, Kristina Gjini, an architect with a passion for the environment and innovation, decided to take a bold step. By combining her professional experience with her love for nature, she created the startup “Frymëmarrje,” an initiative aimed at bringing nature back into urban life through the design and implementation of natural green walls. In this exclusive interview, Kristina shares with us the story, challenges, and vision for the future of this innovative project that is transforming spaces in Albania.
Can you tell us a bit about the history of your startup? How did the idea come about, and what were the initial steps you took to create this business?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a freelancer for an international company specializing in the design and implementation of natural green walls. Working as an architect for this company for about two years, I gained in-depth knowledge of how these systems functioned, were implemented, and maintained. During these two years, construction in Albania had boomed, with every space being occupied by large complexes, mostly residential. This rapid and dynamic construction pace seemed to suffocate the city and its inhabitants, depriving them of the natural elements that are essential for a quality life. As a person who has always had a close connection with nature and as an architect familiar with the latest trends in architecture, I realized there was a great need to bring nature closer to people. Anticipating this need and combining my love for natural elements with the ambition to excel professionally, I decided to create the startup “Frymëmarrje.” “Frymëmarrje” focuses on designing and implementing NATURAL green walls in indoor spaces. The focus of “Frymëmarrje” is on people and their well-being!
What have been the biggest achievements of your startup so far?
The achievements of “Frymëmarrje” so far include several aspects:
- Successful Implementation of the First Project:
- “Frymëmarrje” has won two significant grants, marking a major step forward in our journey, namely the “Smart and Green Future” and the “Challenge Fund.”
- The “Smart and Green Future” grant has given us the opportunity to develop an innovative prototype. This grant has allowed us to invest in a product that reflects quality standards, demonstrating that the concept of a natural green wall adds value to the environment and benefits the users of the space.
- Building a Strong Network of Collaborators:
- “Frymëmarrje” has managed to create a close network of collaborators who are essential for the construction and maintenance of NATURAL green walls. This network has helped and will continue to help maintain quality during the production of products and services offered.
In the future, we aim to increase awareness of the benefits of NATURAL Green Walls and to incorporate this innovative product into significant projects.
What are some of the main challenges you have faced while developing “Frymëmarrje,” and how have you overcome them?
Fortunately, persistence in achieving something I want and believe in is one of my strongest points. It is the passion and burning desire for “Frymëmarrje” that has enabled me to break through the iron barriers of disbelief and prove that the idea works and can be brought to life. Another challenge has been finding suppliers/collaborators who offer the high-quality service for which I do not compromise! And here we are today, standing before our first prototype, thanks to fruitful collaborations and mutual trust in our mission.
How do you see the development of your startup in the next 3-5 years?
My ambitions envision a promising future! The objectives are clear, our collaborators are fully committed, and the will to achieve these goals is unwavering. With confidence and optimism, we look forward to sharing our achievements and progress with you in the near future.
Do you have any partnerships or collaborations that have been key to the development of your startup?
Yes. One of the most fruitful and efficient partnerships so far has been with the company “Two Lines shpk.” This collaboration has been crucial for the successful realization of our first prototype, with dimensions of 235×200 cm. The staff at “Two Lines shpk” have valued and embraced the mission of “Frymëmarrje,” working with exceptional dedication to meet our objectives within the set deadlines. This partnership has been a key milestone in our journey towards success.
Recently, you were also one of the startups selected as winners of the first phase of the Challenge Fund. What projects do you plan to implement with its help (if you can share any with us)?
I am very happy that “Frymëmarrje” was among the winners of the “Challenge Fund” as the competition was truly intense. The focus of the investment will primarily be on improving the product and bringing it to market as quickly as possible. This is an important step for us, considering we are in the early stages of our development. Our goal is to maximize the potential of this investment to meet market needs and offer value to our customers.
What is your vision for the future of your startup, and how would you like your startup to be remembered in the industry you operate in?
My vision for the future of the startup is for “Frymëmarrje” to be the leading company in transforming spaces through NATURAL Green Walls. This involves creating environments that strengthen the human-nature connection, which ensures the well-being of users. Our mission is to positively impact the quality of life, nurture the well-being of future generations, and promote the development of ecological cities that resonate with the harmonious rhythms of nature.
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