Identity & Vision

I enjoy designing with ecosystems in mind, by seeking ways to align human needs with the health and integrity of the natural world. I believe that by designing with care, accountability, and respect for boundaries, we can create interventions that not only solve human problems but also foster ecological resilience. My work aspires to support and restore the systems that sustain life through adaptable, collaborative, and ethical approaches.

 

Throughout my youth, I was fascinated by the animal kingdom. I would often venture into nature, such as forests in and around Tilburg or the dunes in Loon op Zand. I was fascinated by the diversity of animals and plants, observing how they each had adapted to each other and their environments. These experiences made me appreciate the wonder of the natural world.

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As I grew older, my interests shifted towards technology. I became intrigued by the possibilities of innovation and the ways technology could solve complex problems. However, I felt that technological advancements often come at the expense of nature and biodiversity. Urban expansion, pollution, and the misuse of natural resources are often side effects of our over-reliance on technology. I have realised that I value both the progress that technology offers and the preservation of the natural world.

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Now, I draw inspiration from projects like Living Breakwaters by Kate Orff, which embodies the kind of synergy I aim for in my own work. I seek opportunities to create complementary relationships between people and ecosystems. With an interdisciplinary mindset and a commitment to long-term ecological thinking, I strive to design with care, responsiveness, and a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all living systems.

 

If I had to describe myself I would say that I am an adaptable and optimistic person. I enjoy collaborating in a dynamic and team-oriented setting. This allows me to get an understanding of the way my peers think and inspires me to try out new things. As a designer I like to face problems from many different sides, which results in innovative solutions. And even when things don’t go as planned, I remain resilient and resourceful, seeking alternative approaches to find a way forward.

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I also like to get out of my comfort zone by trying out new techniques and experiment with unfamiliar tools such as coding software and different materials. Prototyping and fidgeting helps me greatly in exploring and making; I enjoy getting my hands dirty. Additionally, asking for constructive feedback is invaluable to my development as a designer and person. From time to time, I ask my coaches, tutors and peers what they think of me and how they think I could improve myself as a collaborator and designer. I try to reflect on how I can implement this feedback into the actions I take and decisions I make, both professionally and personally.