This is episode #2 where I am joined by architect and product designer Tosin Oshinowo.

ABOUT TOSIN:

Tosin is an architect with her own architectural practice called C M Design Atelier. She is also a product designer designing furniture using local fabrics under the brand Ilé Ilà. In our conversation, we talk about establishing her name as an architect in an industry with a notoriously high barrier to entry, cultivating the confidence needed to win contracts and the business support essentials that have enabled her to start and managing multiple businesses.

We talk about:

• What inspired her interest in architecture and led her to set up her architectural studio C M Design Atelier
• The process of establishing herself as an architect
• How working from a place of insecurity is a strength
• The importance of presentation to build trust
• The importance of understanding the basics of setting up a business, being honest about your capabilities, and getting the skills you need
• Having a circle of people she can call on for help and advice
• Managing client and money relationships
• The types of projects she works on and developing her design signature
• Designing for the local environment and being aware of how people use space
• Her thoughts on the development of architecture across the African continent
• The impact of Covid on her practice and the local architecture/construction industry
• Embracing multiple income streams
• The opportunity that led to the creation of her chair design business
• Navigating the process of getting product to market
• Managing multiple businesses

Links and resources mentioned in this episode

Maryland Mall

Kingston University

University College London (UCL)

OMA

Where you can go to find out more about Tosin, CMD Atelier and Ilé Ilà: www.cmdesign-atelier.com

@cmdesign_atelier

www.ile-ila.com

@ile.ila

Get the full show notes at: www.atelier55design.com/podcast 

Behind the Design is brought to you by atelier 55

Continue the conversation, follow atelier 55 on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atelier55design/

Instagram: @atelier55design

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/