It's all about people: Claudia Josephs
1. Describe a key experience or moment of truth you experienced as a member of the EPDA community
Uuh, that’s very difficult to say! I’ve been with EPDA for more than 20 years now, and there have been so many moments where I felt: YES, this is the right place to be and the right job to do.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see people connect through EPDA and stay in touch. Members and event participants often describe EPDA as a very friendly and open space. It’s amazing that we can truly live the idea of community – even though all members are competitors.
A definite highlight and privilege is the opportunity to meet so many new people from around the world, with different backgrounds and cultures – whether I’m searching for speakers or speaking to new members.
2. Who is your biggest reference or inspiration in design?
I don’t have a specific role model. I believe inspiration is everywhere – sometimes it comes from people, sometimes from things you see or from reflecting on experiences.
More and more, I find myself thinking about second uses or alternative uses for things I already own – how to combine them, how to create something new with objects found in nature.
3. What/who is your 'can’t live without it' thing when it comes to design?
Honestly, there’s no single tool or gadget I couldn’t live without.
But I’d say that design itself – how things and environments are shaped in terms of form, color, and function – is essential to me.
Losing my sense of sight would be the worst, as visual perception is absolutely key for me.
4. Share a fun fact about yourself that most people don't know.
Certainly nothing I’m proud of – but others find it funny:
In my early twenties, while working in a German bistro, an English-speaking guest ordered toast with mushrooms. I proudly served the plate saying, “Here is your Champion Toast, Sir.”
I could feel the blood rushing to my face. Later, in a university grammar course, I learned about “false friends.” A lesson well learned!
5. What are some of your favorite hobbies or interests outside of design?
Walking through the forest with our dog is definitely one of my favorite activities. I love understanding how dogs tick.
I also enjoy going to concerts – not the big ones, but smaller bands from various genres. I try to draw inspiration from those experiences.
Spending time with my husband and our grown-up daughters is very special to me. Our daugthers are so different from each other – and they give us a glimpse into how the next generation sees the world.
I’m always curious to learn from others – especially about how we can live more peacefully, sustainably, and happily.
6. What is your favourite colour combination and why?
That’s a tough one. The world is full of beautiful colors!
So my answer is: it depends! Are we talking about clothing, interior design, or nail varnish?
I love the colors of nature: dark brown, ochre, and every shade of green. I’m also drawn to combinations like orange, rose, and purple.
Navy blue or black can look stunning, too – depending on the context. At home, we paint one wall of each room in a different color – you’ll find light grey, petrol, rose, sage green, and a deep, warm orange.
