Going from the corporate world to a small design firm, creative designer Mariona den Tuinder now fabricates success on her own.

What were you passionate about when you started your career?

I was passionate about creating new and better ways of living. Creating everyday objects for me was about understanding how we relate to materials, the relationship between form and function, and the psychology behind aesthetics.

What was involved in getting your first job?

I got my first job through LinkedIn. It was a corporate design job and they contacted me. I grabbed their attention because I had been working with the materials experimentation job at my university, and since they were looking for someone for their “lab” they contacted me. 

What did you do there?

My first job, as an intern, was at an innovation department of a consulting firm. We designed potential new products and services based on technological advances such as the appearance of voice assistants (like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home) and IoT (Internet of Things).

What did you learn and where did it take you?

I gained a lot of insight in what regards corporate culture, teamwork, working with departments in different locations (across Europe). Also the importance of good and efficient communication and more specifically to technological and digital innovations and how they are implemented in real projects.

What was your next job and did it flow from the first or was it a fresh start?

A fresh start. I was craving more of a small design studio experience. I wanted to test and develop my skills on hands-on creative work and industrial design. I got a job at a very small interior and industrial design studio in Barcelona.

And then what happened?

I worked at this studio for over a year. I learned a lot about working directly with clients in projects that went from cookware design, accessories design, furniture design and a very big retail interior design project.

What is your favorite thing or project that you have worked on so far? Why? 

The development of a brand book, brand values, and copywriting for an emerging cosmetic brand based in Barcelona. It will be the first time that my branding work will be employed by a freelance client and I am very excited. 

What was the best thing that happened as you started your career?

I realized that I thrive in a work environment where the main values concern aesthetics, beauty, quality content, materials and creativity…and the result is tangible. 

What advice would you give to other young women beginning a career in today’s world?

Be patient and not afraid of rejecting opportunities that don’t light you up. Also work on yourself and be clear on what you are looking for so that you find the right job opportunities.

Where are you headed next/what is your ultimate dream?

My ultimate dream is to be able to combine content creation as a freelancer and create my own range of designer home wear through which to explore and convey the design values I consider important. 

 What do you love?

I love observing the world around me: from sunlight on a vase of flowers in my living room to the people hustling in the street.

What quirky things to do?

I like to switch the uses for things, for instance, I will buy a curtain and use it as a table cloth or bed cover and use a jar as a flower vase.

Where will we find you on your day off?

You will most likely find me swimming in the sea, any time of the year.