“A Story Behind Doors”

Interview with Robert Karasek
Founder and Owner of ROKA

Robert Karasek – founder, owner and main driving force behind the ROKA brand – has been involved in the woodwork industry for more than 30 years, and since 2011 has specialized in creating modern entrance doors. His designs set new standards at the intersection of design, technology and architecture. As a visionary and originator of innovative solutions, he boldly creates the future, guided by his passion for detail, craftsmanship and the authentic beauty of materials. Under his leadership, ROKA has become synonymous with conscious European luxury – firmly grounded in function, but open to emotion and individuality.

Robert, it seems that the Signature Collection is something more than just choosing doors. What does this line mean to you?

RK:The Signature Collection is the essence of our philosophy at ROKA. It’s our signature – the most personal and honest statement of who we are as a brand. We wanted to create something that reflects life behind the door, because door is the boundary between the outside world and the space where everyday stories, full of emotions, relationships and memories, take place. The inspiration was the senses, nature and the primal beauty of the earth. These are doors that tell the story of who we are and what we love through texture, color and detail. This is also the result of our 31 years of experience in the industry and several years of perfecting the system in cooperation with WICONA. Without this advanced solution, we would not be able to afford such a unique design.

The collection’s slogan, “Behind the Door”, is very poetic. What is hidden behind these words?

RK: Behind every door there is a unique story. It can be a home full of joy, where children laugh at the table together, or a space where someone finds solace after a busy day. Signature line doors are designed to be part of these stories. Their design and texture reflect the character of the people who live behind them. “Behind the Door” is also an invitation to look deeper – into our emotions, dreams and way of perceiving the world.

You mentioned nature as an inspiration. How does such an idea manifest itself in the collection?

RK: Nature is in the DNA of this collection. It starts with materials – textures that evoke the warmth of sand, the coolness of stone or the smoothness of water. The textures and colors in Signature collection are inspired by the vitality of the earth, its primal strength and beauty. But it’s not just a matter of aesthetics – we wanted the doors to invite contact with nature through touch. Every surface, every finish is a sensory experience.

So Signature doors are not only about aesthetics, but also emotions?

RK: Exactly. I always say that design shouldn’t be just visual – it must engage all the senses. When you touch a door from the Signature collection, you will feel a texture that evokes emotions – a summer walk in the forest, the coolness of a morning stone, or the softness of damp earth after rain. And when you open them, they become part of the experience, leading you to a place where memories are born.

How does technology fit into all of this? Can nature and modernity coexist?

RK: They must coexist. At Signature we combine precision technology with organic aesthetics. We use modern solutions – from intelligent locking systems to advanced insulation – but we try to make them invisible so that they do not interfere with the natural character of the door. The point is for technology to serve life, not dominate it.

You talked about emotions and senses, but what about individuality? Are Signature doors for everyone?

RK: For anyone who wants their doors to speak their language. The Signature Collection is all about personalization – from the choice of textures and colors to details such as the shape of the handles or the pattern of the panels. Every door is unique because every person is unique. This allows us to create models that perfectly match the character of the homes and their owners. Additionally, it is a great tool for architects who wish to incorporate unique elements into their designs, ensuring that each entrance is unique and tailored to the vision of the creators of the space.

What were the biggest challenges in creating this collection?

RK: The biggest challenge was to combine the pristine beauty of nature with completely new, innovative technological possibilities. We wanted the doors to fit perfectly into their surroundings, while ensuring the highest level of functionality – from thermal insulation to the durability of materials. We achieved this by working with experts and craftsmen who understand that perfection is in the details.

Was there anything particularly memorable about the process of creating the Signature Collection?

RK: The most moving were the reactions of people who saw these doors for the first time. During the design phase, when I invited them to our workshops, I observed people stopping and focusing as if they were discovering something new. There was silence. Everyone felt exactly what we were trying to convey. These moments show that what we do matters – Signature Doors truly engage the senses and emotions.

Finally, what would you like people to feel when they look at the Signature door?

RK: I want them to feel a connection. With nature, with home, with oneself. To see beauty in simplicity while appreciating the richness of detail. These doors are meant to be more than just an architectural element – they are part of the life that goes on behind them, full of emotion, passion and authenticity.