Carolin Kotte

How long have you been working for Dobas AG?  

I’ve been part of Dobas AG since February 2022.

Where did your professional journey take you prior to your current position?

I did an apprenticeship in an interior design studio as a technical product designer specialising in product design and construction. While there I touched on practically all the areas of Interior Architecture, such as shop design, exhibition stand construction, office design as well as private properties. After my apprenticeship I decided to study Interior Architecture at the Detmold School for Design. While studying, I started working part time at Dobas in order to develop my practical knowledge. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in summer 2023 and have been supporting the Dobas team full time ever since.

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

I develop concepts for new spaces and design their interior architecture. In addition, I support our project managers in designing furniture and sale rooms.

How do you stay informed and, more importantly, inspired?

I get most of my inspiration from travelling and exploring the world. I also enjoy looking through architecture and design magazines.

What materials make your senses tingle?

Natural materials! Wood, clay, linen... My favourite thing to do is experiment with wood and build tables out of it or make terrazzo tiles from the rocks I’ve collected in the region.

What should not be missing from your workplace?

Chewing gum and a cold iced tea. And, naturally: lists, lists and more lists! I always have to write everything down so I can cross tasks off of them.

What building and/or space has left a particularly lasting impression on you and why?

The Kulturhof Stanggass is not only a hotel, but a private retreat for relaxing and disconnecting. Nature is always visible, even from your bed: thanks to a huge picture window you get the best views of the Watzmann and surrounding mountain landscape. In particular I can remember watching the sunrise. Care was taken to use sustainable natural materials in the interior design of the rooms, including the regionally sourced spruce and larch wood (moon wood), adobe construction, wooden furniture, and cotton and linen textiles. The materials gave me a feeling of warmth, tranquillity and homeliness.

What fills you with joy and pride in your professional life?

When my ideas and plans turn into tangible objects.

What brings you joy in your personal life?

The moment in which I’ve scaled a mountaintop and can see the world from above. That’s when I get a feeling of freedom which has become increasingly important to me in the past couple years. I want to live fully in the here and now, because life usually turns out different from how you planned it.