As the founder of Concept Structure, what drives your vision for the company’s role within the Romanian real estate market?

My journey began in 2006, though my fascination with construction sparked at the young age of four, exploring a naval site near my home. Concept Structure’s initial project was at the Tulcea naval construction site, a nod to my childhood infatuation. Over the last two years, our progression has been steady, and our commitment and innovative approach have made us a reputable name in the industry. The aim is to set and maintain the standard for structural engineering in Romania.

Why should developers involve a structural engineering company like yours, and what value does Concept Structure bring to projects?

Efficiency was overlooked in the 2000s when projects flourished, but now cost-effectiveness is paramount. We strike a balance between competitive pricing and unwavering quality, offering building costs per square meter 20-30% lower than competitors. We design projects meticulously, adhering to regulations and utilizing our continually updated 10-year-old database. Our focus is on materials, installations, and structural efficiency, ensuring intelligent designs and optimal cost management.

What notable projects has Concept Structure undertaken, and how were you involved in their design?

Recommendations from past clients have propelled us to work on prestigious projects like Afi City and Afi Mall in Brasov, Millo Offices, and Stejarii Residential. We prioritize innovation in design, steering clear of recurring solutions, and constantly aim for upgrades in our design elements to provide progressive solutions to constructors.

What challenges does Concept Structure face in the Romanian market, and how do you overcome them?

A major challenge is the underestimation of design company value, with allocation for specialties being only 1-3% of a project’s total worth, far below the European average of 9%. Recruitment was also difficult initially due to alignment issues with our company’s mindset. We mitigated this by initiating internship programs with universities and fostering a culture that resonates with young talent.

How did the authorities’ suspension of zonal urban plans impact your projects, and what’s your perspective on their decisions for the capital?

The suspension has significantly impacted our projects, including a substantial investment worth EUR 2 billion. It’s a setback, particularly for our concept design phase for apartment buildings in Bucurestii Noi. Though challenging, this pause may have been necessary to address chaotic developments. However, specialized assessments could have helped prevent the blanket suspension.

What are Concept Structure’s plans for the next two to three years?

International expansion is a fervent aspiration, despite the challenge posed by the value disparity between Romania’s 1% allocation and the 9% European average. Renewed client trust and retention are priorities, as is team consolidation. Our student hires have performed remarkably well, boosting our confidence in nurturing and evolving our team further. Expanding into markets like Serbia or Poland remains a key goal.