Growing up with a father who worked as an engineer and an artistically inclined mother shaped Achkov’s approach to furniture making. Today, he has made a name for himself with his self-locking systems and puzzle structures. Thanks to the combination of innovative techniques and minimalist shapes, the design of his furniture appears complex and simple at the same time. His products include not only chairs, but also lamps, home accessories, shelves and sofas – all made of beech plywood. Achkov’s brand Lock Furniture offers flat packs with easy-to-understand assembly instructions, always striving for zero waste in production. He not only emphasises sustainability, but also a minimalist, functional design – providing both practicality and visual appeal.
© Courtesy of the artist
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I live and work in Sofia – the capital of Bulgaria.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
Sofia is unique and lies at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, which are up to 2,290 metres high. It is suitable for both summer and winter sports. Sofia is also a very green city with a number of parks.
© Georgi Kalaydzhiev
Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?
The war in Ukraine remains a major problem. Russia’s strong and damaging influence in Bulgaria is also a major challenge.
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
Our country is on the way to ever closer euro integration, and this is noticeable and visible. There is a construction boom of new buildings of all kinds. New sections of the underground railway are being built in Sofia. Many new companies are opening in the industrial areas around the major cities. Unfortunately, this leads to overcrowding in these cities, especially in Sofia. There are many cars and rush hour traffic jams are now the norm in certain places.
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
Kaloyan Vassilev is an experienced young craftsman who specialises in high-quality tables made of wood and resin, which he offers under KV Design.
© KV Design
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
I think the new sections of the metro in Sofia are some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
I can recommend Contessa in Pirotska Street.
©Sheep’s Europe Guide
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
Gifted offers items that are characteristic of Sofia, from modern design to retro products.
© Tripadvisor
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
– Dezeen
– Faktor
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
I would change the names of all streets named after Russian people who were forced upon us during the communist occupation 1944-1989. I would also move all monuments from this period to a special museum of totalitarian art.
© Visit Sofia
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constraints – which one would you choose?
Maybe in Italy, where there is a similar Mediterranean mentality, good food and lots of art of all kinds.
© sofiliumm
