Michelle Horisberger

How long have you been working for Dobas AG?  

I’ve been working for Dobas since February 2024.

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

My professional journey began with an apprenticeship as a home textile designer, where I designed tailor-made decorative drapery for indoor and outdoor spaces. After that, I decorated the aisles and window displays of the Globus department store, including its spectacular Christmas trees. One year later, I seized the opportunity to apply for the position of project manager for textiles at CASA TESSUTI in Lucerne. For eight years I worked in one of the most beautiful showrooms in Switzerland, surrounded by the finest textiles from all over the world. It was this period that awakened my interest in other facets of interior architecture. Before joining Dobas, I delved into the area of floor covering, parquet and tiles, again in my role as a project manager.

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

I help project managers with drafting CAD plans as well as any and all other tasks that arise during the process until the interior is completed.   

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

By reading books, going to museums, watching documentaries about contemporary architecture and having conversations with people from all areas. 

What materials make your senses tingle?

In general natural materials. It could be a heavy linen from France, Douglas fir wood from the Black Forest or a marvellous granite from Ticino. 

What should not be missing from your workplace?

A cup of lemon-ginger Yogi tea. Each of the tea bags has a proverb – positive thoughts for the day in order to deal more calmly with so-called stressful situations. I also have a postcard entitled «Auslegung des Schönen» by Eva Hensel at my workplace. It has brightly coloured flower heads that conveniently never wilt. 

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

Villa E.1027 on the French coast. The house, including its interior, was tastefully and simply designed by Eileen Gray. I am fascinated by this visionary woman. 

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

Achieving goals as a team! For me, the implementation phase – when the plans becomes reality – is the most exciting and exhilarating part of a project. You have to react very quickly and find solutions together. Moments like these are the most invigorating part of my job. When you and your team achieve your objective, it feels like everything is possible and all the stressful moments are forgotten. 

What brings you joy in your personal life?

Sharing a meal at a big table with family, friends and lively discussions. And also going to the KKL Luzern (Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre) to enjoy the glorious sounds of the symphony orchestra.