Business
This is episode #5 where I am joined by furniture and product designer Dounia Tamri-Loeper. ABOUT DOUNIA: You are listening to episode number 5 of season 2. And joining me on the show is Dounia Tamri-Loeper. Dounia is the designer and founder of Dounia Home. A lighting company that is based in the US and Morocco. Dounia Home is on a mission to modernise Moroccan design reimagining the traditional techniques and craftsmanship into sophisticated collections that have sustainability at their heart. We talk about: Taking decision to leave her job to start her own business Researching her idea and spending time in Morocco travelling the country and getting to know the different crafts from a a designer perspective Using her designer’s eye to modernise the old styles Leveraging trade shows to build her brand name, awareness and credibility The importance of knowing her audience and getting in front of them Managing a business between the US and Morocco, and why a process is key Producing in Morocco and working with artisan groups How government support has helped develop and grow her business Designing for sustainability and not trends Finding and attracting collaborations Looking to the future of design Being bold and not being afraid to reach out for opportunities What being in business has taught her about herself Links and resources mentioned in this episode Maison de l’artisan - http://www.maisonartisan.ma Elle Decor - https://www.elledecor.com House Beautiful - https://www.housebeautiful.com Handmade Contemporary Fair (HmC) - http://www.artlogic.co.za/fairs Aphrochic - https://www.aphrochic.com Where you can go to find out more about Dounia and Dounia Home: https://www.douniahome.com @douniahome - https://www.instagram.com/douniahome/ 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/atelierfiftyfive/ Instagram: @atelier55design Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/atelier55design/