A’MARIE girl: Petra Roje
I first came to know Petra Sučić Roje through her work – through interiors that tell stories, through unforgettable colors and patterns, and her ability to shape space, emotion, and identity all at once. I’ve always been fascinated by how effortlessly she moves between creative media – from architecture and interiors to illustration and patterns that come alive on fabric or wallpaper. But what truly captivated me about Petra is not just her versatility, but her honesty, warmth, and the inner strength she brings to everything she does. In her, art and intuition merge, playfulness meets depth, and aesthetics always come with a touch of good humor. Petra is someone who masters the visual language with ease – but speaks even more powerfully with her heart. That’s why the collaboration we began this spring felt so meaningful to me – because it all happened naturally, organically, like a conversation between two women sharing the same sensibility and love for creating. Recently, she welcomed us into a beautiful apartment she’s designing, dressed in her favorite pieces from the current A’MARIE collection – all of which she styled with her signature personal touch.
Creative, versatile, and brilliant at everything you touch. That’s how I would describe you, looking at all you’ve achieved and the wonderful projects you’ve worked on. But how would you describe yourself in three words – and would your friends agree?
Thank you so much for such a lovely description. Intuitive, impulsive, direct. That’s how I’d describe myself, with those three “i”s right off the bat! I could also add that I’m an idealist at heart, who occasionally gets hit by reality and becomes a pessimist – but bounces back quickly… I believe everyone who knows me would agree with that.
Interior design, typography, product design, fashion, print design for fabrics and wallpaper… Am I missing anything? How do you manage to do it all?
I graduated in architecture and after university I found myself in interior design, which has been my foundation for the past 25 years. That part of my work is constant, while the other fields are ways for me to creatively breathe and express myself further. I’m not really a typographer, product, or fashion designer – those are distinct disciplines that I’ve only skimmed the surface of. The only area I’ve truly delved into, apart from architecture, is digital illustration. I mostly work on pattern designs that can be applied to various surfaces – and that’s actually the main thread that connects all aspects of my work. My interior projects often end with a custom-made rug, which is one of my favorite parts of the process because it allows me to fully unleash my creativity.
Which project has been the most challenging and ultimately your favorite so far – and why that one? Is there a ‘dream project’ still waiting to happen?
Every new project becomes my favorite, and each brings its own unique challenge. My biggest problem is that I get so consumed by the ‘new’ that I have to make an extra effort to finish the ‘old.’ The space we shot in is definitely one of my most beloved and challenging projects – and it’s a new one. As for a ‘dream project’ in the way you might mean it – I’m no longer waiting for one. I used to, but now that concept means something entirely different to me. Today, my dream project is the renovation of my favorite old stone house by the sea, which is currently underway. That project is so much more than just architecture…
The two of us entered a beautiful collaboration, which resulted in fantastic prints featured on A’MARIE creations. Do you have a favorite piece – and what made you choose it?
The collaboration with you is very dear to me. That kind of project – where I play the role of illustrator – is something I’ve longed to do. So far, we’ve created a set of T-shirts for the spring collection and the reactions have been great. The true value of a collaboration lies in how our differences enrich and elevate the work – rather than divide it. That’s exactly what I see in this first joint effort of ours.
What excites you most about your work – what gives you that “this is why I do it” feeling?
Every creative process sparks that feeling in me. Of course, I love the end result – satisfied clients and so on – but the most exciting part is that first moment when an idea somehow lands in your consciousness and you manage to shape it just enough to see it will work. That’s my favorite part.
Fashion and personal style often say a lot about a person – what does your style say about you?
It says a lot to those who pay attention. My style is eclectic, and I dress according to the rule: “Let’s see who I am today.” I need to really feel everything I wear. If something worked yesterday, it doesn’t mean it will today. I might see it with entirely different eyes today. And I always stay true to how I feel. My look is often a mix of contrasts – and that blend is where I find myself in that moment.
Why do you love A’MARIE pieces? Which ones are your go-to favorites from your wardrobe?
A’MARIE pieces are timeless, classic, and beautifully tailored. You have an amazing sense for materials. Right now, of course, my favorite items are the T-shirts with my illustration.
Which item from the current collection caught your eye the most – and how would you style it?
During the shoot, I selected several of my favorite pieces from the current collection and showed how I would wear them… I’m talking about gorgeous, incredibly comfortable pleated trousers and a striking white shirt with batwing sleeves.
Not only do you create prints – you also love wearing them. How do you always make patterns look so good? What’s your secret for mixing prints?
Yes, I adore prints – though recently I’ve been wearing a lot more monochrome. When I’m deeply immersed in work, my brain needs rest, even in that way. I mix patterns intuitively. I don’t really have a formula I could write down, but there’s always some sort of color link. Also, the size of the print and the type of pattern are important. Even though it might sound like I’m covered in prints from head to toe – that’s usually not the case. It’s more of a play of subtle and small-scale patterns and textures.
Do you have a personal ritual you never skip to start your day?
Ever since I stopped going to yoga classes during COVID, I couldn’t get myself back into it. That’s when a dear and wise friend gave me a piece of advice that still works for me. Exercise for about 15 minutes – every single day without exception. It’s short enough that you don’t resent it, you don’t have an excuse to skip it, and it doesn’t take much time, which is increasingly precious. But it’s still enough to keep you in shape, as long as you’re doing the right exercises. So, I’ve been starting my days like that for years – every morning before breakfast and coffee…
When you need a reset – where do you go, what do you do, how do you recharge?
I need a reset more and more often these days. I’m energized by meaningful time with friends, but most of all – by travel. I also love films.
If you could hug your younger self today and give her one piece of advice – what would it be?
I think I’d just give her a big hug… Whatever I’d say, my younger self would probably go her own way anyway. But I wish I had realized back then how precious time is, and how fast it flies… And I’d probably whisper – be mindful of your thoughts… And also, be mindful of what you eat.
5 Quick Ones:
Morning or evening?
Depends on the task and the day… Truly, both.
Art Nouveau or Art Deco?
Art Deco, my great love… Though in high school, my first design crush was Art Nouveau.
Favorite perfume/scent?
I don’t have one… Except for some scents from the past that tie me to certain places and memories. Right now, I love discovering small perfumers and constantly trying new things. At the moment, I’m using MINE perfume lab – PIPPI and VIOLINETTE.
Your best trait?
That I’m forever a child at heart.
The happiest moment of your life?
The birth of my daughter, Eva Katarina… Without a doubt.
