KAREN KOSHONI

INTERIOR DESIGNER

What things have you learnt about turning 50 that you probably didn’t think much about when you were 40?

A certain consciousness of who I am, what do I stand for and what am I giving back to society and what’s the legacy I intend to leave behind, 40’s for me was very much about establishing myself, business and finding my footing as an independent woman etc. Now, in my 50’s I’m more aware of what I can represent as a person.

Everyone usually has a bucket list. What boxes are you yet to tick so far?

Travelling to a destination island alone for one week with a few good books, facing the sea and allowing my mind to be free. Give back by building a shelter for women and children who are struggling, usually single or widowed

They say with age come maturity and some level of boldness. What key things matter most to you now that didn’t hold such importance a few decades back?

The positive impact or influence I can have on people, and the importance of being part of something that gives back. Being present for people and being at peace (most crucial now).

You look very good for your age and could easily pass for 40. No doubt, older men as well as younger men are bound to admire you. Have you been approached by younger men and if so, would you ever consider dating someone 5-10 years younger?

I do get approached by much younger men, but I haven’t been attracted actually let me correct that, drawn to younger men, I think the maximum I could do would be a gentleman three years younger than me.

If you were to advice younger women who look up to you, how best will you advice them about being in a good place?

Number one advice, Do you. Don’t look at what anyone has, or require validation to be who you are. Saying that, get involved with groups and platforms that encourage, help and drive your ambition to build your confidence and skills. Keep good friends that will stand with you no matter what, support you and encourage you. Last but not the least, mind your business and be quiet.

People barely conceal their delight when they see your works, with a trademark of beauty and elegance. How do you intend to revolutionize the face of interior decoration in the country with the elegant and beautiful designs that you churn out?

Thank you for the kind words, I think the foremost goal of Urban Living is giving quality well made furniture at a good price point so our Nigerian clientele can rest assure that well designed furniture can be made here in Nigeria. Affordability is key.

You have a long list of reputable establishments as your client, how do you get them to believe so much in you and what your establishment stands for

I work at understanding the needs of the client and being able to interpret their needs and the design aesthetics they want to achieve, I’m also very patient with clients and never want them to feel under pressure, it’s a process that must be made enjoyable or comfortable for the client whether it’s a corporation or a private home. Urban Living stands for Quality, Design & Excellent Finish

You are a mother of four lovely daughters, how are you able to able to combine your role as a C.E.O of Urban Living and a mother knowing how much your daughters look to you for guidance, advice and direction in the world?

It’s definitely not an easy task, as a woman, you have to work doubly hard to make your mark, so a lot of time is spent working, but I have made sure I’m always there for my girls. I’m disciplined as a mother but I’m also a friend to each one, I encourage them to talk about anything with me

(as much as they would allow). We do a lot of things together, holidays, eating out. Interacting with your children is important. People who know me, know how close I am to my girls and how fiercely protective I am of them. I will drop any and everything for them and they know this. My daughters are my no one priority.

You attended Queens College Yaba and it is on record that you’re a decent and devoted alumnus of the college, precisely of the1988 set. Would you say there are remarkable principles you learnt while at Queens College and how well has it helped shape your perspective thus far?

Such an honour to have attended Queens College Yaba, Lagos. It shaped me in many ways, it instilled strong values that have shaped by mindset, one being excellence, striving to be good at whatever I do, discipline and grace, to carry oneself with grace and confidence. Queens College definitely instilled a sense of self worth in us.

As a member of the Interior Design Association of Nigeria (IDAN), what would you say has been the major role of the organization to the growth of interior decoration in the country?

IDAN has definitely given accreditation to the industry in Nigeria, the confidence to work to principled guidelines and value to the work we do as Architects, Interior designers, interior decorators, manufacturers and artisans. It has definitely put Nigeria on the global platform, the current President of IFI, which is the international federation of interior Architects/Designers is our very own Titi Ogunfere.

As a reputable interior decorator, when you’re invited to an empty room and given the task to decorate the room, what inspires your creativity?

I’m always first inspired by a client’s personality, which can range from colourful, bohemian, glamourous to a variety of different personalities, as well as being influenced by the design and style of the property and the surroundings.

Without a doubt, interior decoration is teamwork oriented because you need the services of interior architects and cabinetry craftsmen, how do you balance the conflicting views and opinions of your team mates to get the best output?

This here is the core of interior work especially if it involves renovations, ensuring everyone is on the same page from inception to production and delivery/installation, it involves a lot of detailed meetings and supervision, getting everyone’s opinion and suggestions, interior work is not

about dictation but cooperation of everyone to understand the vision and design, I tell my work team, always ask questions never assume, it’s the only way we learn, and every project is a learning curve to gain something new.

You have participated in several life changing projects through your church and also privately, what motivated you to do so?

Upbringing I would say is probably my first influence to want to make a difference in society and peoples lives. My Parents and Mother most especially, were always looking for ways to help people. Also, being a dedicated follower of Christ, the church I attend is an outreach church, we are taught to love and have compassion for people and your community. My church has definitely had a great influence and is a big source of encouragement to make that difference.

You also support the liberation of women with numerous support packages and Leadership development skills, what is your drive to do these things?

.After going through a divorce, there was certainly a need to gain a stronger foothold on being financially independent and secure, as well as the realization that we live in a male dominated society and women need all the help and support that can be offered to get up the ladder. A simple act of just talking and understanding, encouraging and supporting businesses, introducing, recommending etc, in some cases helping out financially, goes a long way. I don’t think there’s enough support out there for women in particular, I try and encourage some of the ladies I mentor through church to get on skill acquisition courses.

Nigeria can be a very tough terrain for anyone most especially women. It’s important to have a goal, be persistent, focused, persevere, and work hard at giving excellence. We must remember complacency kills, let’s strive to be the Proverbs 31 woman.

Nigeria can be a very tough terrain for anyone most especially women. It’s important to have a goal, be persistent, focused, persevere, and work hard at giving excellence. We must remember complacency kills, let’s strive to be the Proverbs 31 woman.

You are 50 now, are you in a relationship and finally is your door still open to romance and marriage?

I’m definitely open to romance, courtship and marriage, it’s a blessing to be part of genuine love and make a difference in someone’s life. Although I must say, it’s an area that I tread very carefully, as I don’t want anything to jeopardize my children and I emotional stability. All in all, I’m happily and comfortably single. If the right person comes along, great, if not, great all the same.