Our student designer, Caroline Röök, joined us a year ago to complete a work placement within our design team at Paramount HQ.
As her placement comes to an end this month, we take some time to catch up with Caroline about her highlights and what it’s been like working in a busy design studio.
Please introduce yourself, what course you’re studying and why?
My name is Caroline, I’m 23 years old and I moved from Sweden to Cardiff in 2020 to study Interior Design at the University of South Wales. Although there’s a lot of opportunity within the interior design industry in Sweden, I wanted to experience another country’s approach to workplace design and see how that could develop me both as a person and in my career.
I’ve always known that I wanted to do something that challenged me, allowed me to help people, whilst expressing my creativity. Once I realised that design ticked all those boxes, my goal for a career in Interior Design started.
Briefly detail the types of projects you’ve worked on at Paramount and clients you’ve worked with.
The types of projects I’ve worked on with Paramount have varied. Both in terms of clients and spaces. I’ve been involved in everything from providing concept test-fits, to detailed floor plans for clients such as Cardiff Bus, Brewin Dolphin and confused.com, and large-scale projects for The Welsh Rugby Union at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. More recently, I assisted the Design Manager with the design of a 3,000 sq. ft office space for new client Menzies at the beautiful Hodge House building.
What is your favourite area of design?
When working in design, it’s an emotive experience, and so seeing a happy client or receiving positive feedback is always going to be one of the best and most rewarding feelings. Another favourite area of mine is the challenge of creating that sweet spot – a concept that prioritises functionality but is also aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable for the client.
What have you been most proud of during your placement at Paramount?
I think my proudest achievement was when I visited the new office for Menzies once finished. It was the first project I’d worked on from start to finish and the first time I’ve seen a design I’ve helped to create come to life. Not only that, but the client used pieces of my own photography (which I enjoy as a hobby) as prints around their office – it was such a nice touch!
What have you enjoyed the most about working in a live design studio?
My favourite part has been the people and the collaboration. I’ve loved being surrounded by people who are all passionate about design and can share their experiences, insights, and advice. If I’ve ever had a question or stuck for inspiration there is always someone to share ideas with and discuss.
Please describe the team at Paramount in three words.
Caring, creative and inspiring.
“Caroline has been a breath of fresh air since arriving at Paramount. She has brought a sense of calm to the place, but with great ideas and enthusiasm for design, which we will certainly miss over the next few months. She is an ambitious and proactive designer, quick to learn and a joy to work with, we wish Caroline all the best with her final year university studies, and we look forward to welcoming her back into the studio very soon!” – Jon Foster, Design Manager
For more information on our design division please click here.
