Greta’s journey to becoming a part of the COEL team started when she was a student at Anglia Ruskin University. She had seen our branding all over the city and was intrigued. Once she graduated, Greta filled out an application and the rest is history.

Since joining COEL five years ago, Greta has become an integral part of the team by delivering excellent designs.

In honour of a recent project with Mishcon where Greta was the lead designer, we decided to sit down with her to find out more about her role as an interior designer.

Can you describe a typical day at your job? 

Technically, the day starts the night before – before I leave the office I always plan out the following day. When I get to the office, I check my emails and drink a cup of coffee.

My days normally include a mix of:

• Client meetings
• Site visits
• Creating presentations
• Internal meetings
• CPD training

Travel is also common, as I often do site visits. This is important as it gives me an opportunity to speak directly with the project managers and, most importantly, the clients. I get to address any issues that might have come up and ensure the client is kept informed at all times. 

Back at the office, I might work on flat lays, space planning or ‘look and feel’ design presentations.

What are some of the challenges you have had to overcome in your role?

The main one is definitely knowing how to work to tight deadlines. 

Projects involve a lot of working parts and, as a result, things can change very quickly. So knowing how to work under pressure can be challenging. 

Did you always want to work in interior design?

I always wanted to do something within the design space. In my early teens I was interested in Art, Languages and Fashion Design, but with time I noticed I was naturally inclined towards buildings.

I’ve always been really interested in the environment’s affect on people. 

What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about going into interior design?

My biggest piece of advice is: learn to love the learning process. I have learnt so much at COEL by constantly gaining new knowledge about materials, design trends and much more.

My other piece of advice is to get your foundational knowledge ready – make sure you have key software skills, such as AutoCAD, PhotoShop and SketchUp. 

And don’t be scared to be innovative! 

What is your favourite thing about your role and being part of the COEL team?

So many things.

COEL has not only provided me with learning opportunities, but also the support to develop as an interior designer. I’m constantly being challenged to grow within my role and expand my skill set. 

Our current office environment is also very inspiring, which is not often the case in other companies. The space is reflective of the company culture and its emphasis on innovation and collaboration. 

The entire team is always willing to help, and everything is a team effort.

And when you are not working, what do you like to do?

I love hikes, especially with a view – Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, Snowdon Mountain, Thor’s Cave in the Peak District, but I still have a few to look forward to and check off my list, like Scafell Pik & Ben Nevis.

Any outdoor activities help me unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature while focusing on what is in front of me – it keeps me in the moment. 

Visit our team page to meet more of our amazing team.