Laura Boiteau

A look back at the ESMA years

How did you decide to go into Space Design?

When I was a child, I always had a taste for drawing and even architecture. I really liked property and interior design. However, once I’d passed my baccalaureate in literature, I went off to study… pastry-making in Sète. I passed my CAP in one year instead of two. The very tough working conditions encouraged me to change direction.

Why did you choose ESMA?

I said to myself, I’m going to try ESMA, a school I’d heard good things about and as I’m from Montpellier, it was an obvious choice. I did a year of MANAA. I really enjoyed it, especially the history of art. Then I went on to do a BTS in Space Design, again in line with my love of architecture. The two years were pretty tough, you can’t rest on your laurels. It’s only two years, you have to give it your all.

What did you particularly enjoy during the course?

I was really passionate about my professional project. It involved redesigning the signage at Saint-Roch station. It was well received. There was a kind of competition and I finished in the top three, on the podium. The support and backing were really important. I’ve always felt a lot of kindness from the teachers. It helps you to push yourself!

When you left the course, did you start working straight away?

No, I did a Master 1 in architecture in Paris, at Esam. At the same time, I worked in an architecture firm, OVGA, on a sandwich course. OVGA ran into financial difficulties and parted company with its staff.

What did you do after this additional training?

I canvassed for another architecture firm in Paris or Montpellier. I couldn’t find one! That was a bit of a struggle. Then I did a short three-month sales training course. After an interview, I started working for Roche Bobois in Orly and the Paris region.

Your career path

How has your career developed since joining Roche Bobois?

After working for the Paris shops, a position became available in Montpellier. As I’m a local, I chose to come back to the Hérault. I’m still here as a decorating consultant.

What qualities do you need to do your job?

In the business, there’s a lot of selling, we’re not going to lie! But the advantage, and it’s a very pleasant one, is that as an architect you get to work on 3D interiors, placing Roche Bobois furniture in people’s homes. We go to their homes to make suggestions. Personally, I like to help with the colour of the walls and so on. It’s extra advice that I can give because I did the BTS at ESMA. An X sales assistant can’t necessarily offer that kind of added value. The shop receives new collections very frequently, so we have to re-arrange. There are conferences twice a year, which gives me the opportunity to meet designers like Sacha Lakic and architects like Jean Nouvel.

So you’re in contact with customers and you also give advice?

My job is to advise customers so that their interior suits them perfectly. I like working in interiors, in small spaces.

Is there a particular project or projects that stand out for you?

I had a customer who bought an old SNCF stone building and I furnished the whole house. We’re due to furnish a VIP room at the Montpellier Arena. I’m working on this project for this winter. We also work for the Domaine de Verchant every year, which I love.

Do you have any particular ambitions in mind?

I’m very happy where I am at the moment. However, I do have a little idea in the back of my mind. I’m thinking of one day working for myself and doing decorating for events. If the opportunity arises… in a few years’ time.

In conclusion

What advice would you give to future students?

You have to give it your all. In the end, it pays off. The ESMA diploma is worth it. I also remember making quite a few contacts through ESMA.

Do you meet any former students?

Yes, I worked with Thomas Fabresse and Léa Charée on Roche Bobois projects.

One last word!

I’m not closing any doors.

Image credits: Roche Bobois