Argola Textile Yacht Design: Tailoring Luxury for Sea and Shore
A quarter of a century of experience, innovation and top-quality craftsmanship have made Argola into a leading name in the European nautical textile industry
The story of Argola, woven over 25 years of dedicated work by couple Zdravko Tokić and Nikolina Morožin Tokić, begins with a small team supplying local marinas and ends at the top – with Argola becoming a globally recognized brand and a synonym for nautical luxury.
Key milestones, primarily building dedicated facilities in 2009 with a shift towards the premium segment and the introduction of 3D digital measurement and tailoring in 2017, opened the door for cooperation with global yacht builders.
Today, Argola successfully transfers this rich experience to land, creating exclusive outdoor and indoor solutions for luxury villas and wellness zones.
HOW DID YOU GROW INTO THE GIANT WORKING WITH THE WORLD'S MAJOR SHIPYARDS THAT YOU ARE TODAY?
In the world of luxury, every detail matters, and clients are quick to recognize a product or service powered by dedication, precision and true passion for the task.
Argola's goal has never been just to make a product, but to act as a partner who understands living at sea and creates custom-tailored solutions for each vessel.
Our consistent growth through investment in people, technology and processes goes in step with International standards and the domestic Croatian Quality Mark, which guarantee reliability and top quality craftsmanship.
Collaborations with renowned global shipbuilders and designers have come naturally, as a result of the reputation we have earned, and the greatest recognition is still the number of returning clients, who also recommend us to acquaintances.
THE MARKET HAS CHANGED DRASTICALLY IN THIS QUARTER OF A CENTURY, AS HAS TECHNOLOGY. HOW HAVE YOU ADAPTED?
In these 25 years of continuous development, we have upgraded classic tailoring and handwork with modern technologies that allow greater precision, faster production and a more responsible approach to materials through recycling leftovers into decorative items.
However, our core belief remains the same: technology facilitates the process, but cannot replace the skill of the human hand and the eye for detail.
This combination of advanced tools and traditional craftsmanship is what defines our approach, which is why we continue to build on what we've been known for from the start – close co-operation with the client and a sense of exclusivity.
WHICH PROJECT WOULD YOU SINGLE OUT AS THE ONE THAT TAUGHT YOU THE MOST?
It's hard to single out just one project, as every project teaches us something, and our dedication is the same regardless of the size of the vessel and the client's vision. However, superyacht projects leave the largest mark on our work overall.
Such projects are defined by high expectations and short deadlines, so they require impeccable organization skills, utmost dedication to detail and quick adaptation to complex requirements.
Working on vessels where the original character and aesthetics had to be preserved, while at the same time having to improve functionality, comfort and durability are always valuable.
Projects like those have taught us the importance of balancing tradition, innovation, and precision in execution.
WHAT DOES YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LOOK LIKE FROM THE FIRST MEETING WITH THE YACHT OWNER TO THE MOMENT YOU INSTALL THE FINAL PIECE OF THE PRODUCT?
Every project begins with a conversation with the client, to understand their wishes, habits and nautical lifestyle, followed by measuring and planning, and finally presentation to the client.
We pay extra attention to the functionality and durability of fabrics, through collaboration with renowned textile brands and exclusive partnerships for certain collections. The final fitting on the vessel is always a special moment, because the project takes its final shape.
Our work does not stop there, though; it's when a new process of after-sales support and long-term product care begins, equally important. For us, it is never just about making awnings, cushions or similar items – we want to make our clients feel carefree, comfortable, relaxed and connected to the sea.
YOU SAID PEOPLE WERE YOUR GREATEST ASSET. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN IN EVERYDAY, PRACTICAL WORK?
People are our greatest asset and the heart of Argola, and behind every product there are experts who have been honing their skills for years.
Many of our team members have been with us since the beginning, which doesn’t only create a family vibe, but it creates continuity, trust and high quality. Every idea is heard and considered.
We are especially proud of our combination of youth and experience – younger generations bring new energy and embrace technology easily, while our experienced craftsmen guarantee precision and knowhow. Machines can help, but the character, warmth and that final touch are always a human contribution.
YOU ARE A MARRIED COUPLE RUNNING A COMPANY TOGETHER – WHERE DOES WORK END AND PRIVATE LIFE BEGINS?
When you build a company together, the boundaries between work and private life naturally blur. Argola is part of our joint journey, and mutual trust and a clear vision are key.
We both have clear, distinct roles: Zdravko focuses on organization, project management, technical solutions and innovation, while Nikolina is oriented on brand development and positioning, quality and the strategic direction.
IS ARGOLA TODAY THE COMPANY YOU IMAGINED AT THE BEGINNING? HOW DO YOU IMAGINE IT TEN YEARS FROM NOW?
Even as Argola grows into a global brand, our core values remain unchanged: we are as dedicated as ever to providing a personalized experience and uncompromised quality. Our further development hinges on the combination of experience and new blood in production and management.
The future belongs to companies that know how to bring together tradition, innovation and emotion, so our goal for the next decade is to become a power player in yachting, as well as in the segment of luxury residential projects.
Photos Argola