Verena Zaugg

What are the main tasks that make up your daily work routine?

My job – which I have been performing enthustiastically for the past ten years – is creating the concepts and designs of projects in the hospitality sector. That includes the positioning and storytelling of the projects, as well as selecting material and colour combinations, doing research and assuming the creative direction during the planning and realisation phase. 

How would you describe your personal interior design style in three words?

I always think that’s a very interesting question for us interior architects. When you work in this profession, you’re expected to have a perfectly designed living space or have it be reflected in your own projects. However, I couldn’t say that my own style coincides with the projects I work on since my personal life is shaped by completely different circumstances than a positioned hospitality concept. If I had to give my home a title, it would be «tiny–human–chic» – that’s the dominant feel at the moment. 

What do you need at your work station at all times?

My work station is always pretty chaotic. All the bits and bobs and also necessary things have a way of piling up. Sketches, notes, doodles – I need this chaos around me. One constant on my desk, next to my cup of coffee and bottle of water, is a small Japanese bobblehead doll from my trip to Japan. The rhythmic movement helps get my blocked thoughts flowing again. 

What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue a career in architecture/interior architecture?

Get experience working in an office environment and do as much hands-on work as possible – but also enjoy your time as an apprentice as much as you can. The freedom you have as a student – staying up all night building models only to discard them and start anew for the umpteenth time – is really special and there is seldom time or space for that in an office. In other words, enjoy this time you have to be creative while you’re not bogged down with project fees or hourly estimates. But still keep reality in mind so you’re not disappointed later on. 

What will the world of architecture/interior architecture look like in 2035? What things have changed significantly and how?

I think ten years is too short a period of time to expect to see fundamental changes. One thing that is certain to accompany us, and that will change our industry, is how we use and take advantage of artificial intelligence and generative AI in our work environment. Design processes will change and elevate our profession to a new level. We will become more and more engaged in the process of 3D printing. At the same time, I think people’s desire for real, natural and meaningful things will be a very strong counterbalance to all things digital.