REFLECTIONS ON MY PAST SIX MONTHS WORKING AT CATHI COLLA ARCHITECTS

I find it hard to believe, that it has already been six months since I joined the team at Cathi Colla Architects. It truly has been an exciting and invigorating experience so far!

Not having worked in inner suburbia for over ten years, I wasn’t quite sure how I would go with the change of scenery – and traffic –and whether I would miss my former office window view overlooking the Yarra river. But I must admit, that I do enjoy the daily hustle and bustle outside our studio window. I feel I can even draw from this vibe and energy, of which there seems to be an endless supply.

Since I joined the CCA team, I have experienced some hot summer days in Carlton North, including the occasional 30+ degree heat during my lunch break walks. I’ve taken advantage of the amazing lunch options around us. More recently, I have admired the changing beautiful autumn colours of all the deciduous trees lining Rathdowne Street just outside, which are truly a landmark of the Rathdowne Village neighbourhood.

It is such a privilege to be working with Cathi Colla Architects. I enjoy the solid sense of teamwork, the ethical approach to our everyday tasks, the challenges, the projects, (of course!) and the strong sense of community within the office and also around us.

Undoubtedly, this change in workplace has been a big step for me in my career and my life. This change has been a conscious decision, to give to myself the opportunity to continue to grow on a personal and professional level.

A leap of faith followed by a jump into the unknown can be quite scary. Nevertheless, it has been well worth the patience and endurance, allowing me to strengthen my own beliefs in myself and loving my work in creating beautiful homes for remarkable people.

VERA DAMCZYK