MKDL meets: Karolina Obroniecka
Our team got the pleasure of chatting to the lovely Karolina Obroniecka about her beautiful glassware company, Lagom.
How did you get into designing glassware?
During my final year at UAL Central Saint Martins, I was working on an ice cream project when I came across borosilicate glass. The project turned out to be quite successful, and I enjoyed the process immensely. This experience was the beginning of a dream.
After graduation, I wanted to take it further but, like many grads, ended up pursuing a career in consultancy.
One day, during an exceptionally dull (from my perspective) strategy call, I decided to follow my true passions and revive the dream. This is how Lagom was born.
What does your process look like?
Sketching, sketching and then more sketching.
Then after some more sketching, I move to the prototype stage- first with 3D-printed models and then in glass. Then comes the most important part- getting thoughts from other people and taking on this feedback in my designs.
Where do you find your inspiration from?
I know this might sound trivial, but the truth is, from everywhere. I don't have a specific go-to place for inspiration. I wish I did, as it would make it easier to navigate through creative droughts.
How does being a woman-led and -inspired business influence your work?
There have been and continue to be numerous outstanding, yet unrecognised, women in the creative field.
I look up to them, strive to learn from them and create beautiful, enduring products that people will cherish for years and out.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I have a love/hate relationship with being my own boss.
What have been your biggest challenges?
Navigating the challenges of working alone has been a significant hurdle for me. The absence of a team or support network can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation and limited perspectives.
Another challenge for me is social media; having an online presence is so incredibly important nowadays, especially for small businesses. I do my best to be present on instagram, but it does not come naturally to me at all.
