Take 10 with… Kate Darby, Co-founder of Recreational Studio
In 2020, during level 4 and 3 of Aotearoa New Zealand’s COVID response we launched Take 10 With… an article series with you – to do a pulse check on how our community was feeling, working, what you missed, and learn about your hopes for the future.
We had feedback that you really enjoyed the series so we have tweaked the questions and invited more of our friends and peers to participate in these candid profiles of Aotearoa NZ designers today as we navigate this lockdown throughout August and September 2021 in levels 4 and 3.
Who are you? What’s your day job and where do you work?
I’m Kate, co-founder of Recreational Studio, a studio of creative exploration, design craft and technical tactics.
Who’s in your bubble this lockdown?
My boyfriend, Louis and his cat, Roni.
What do you like about lockdown?
Being forced to cancel all plans is actually quite nice. I’ve been enjoying trying some new recipes, trying to get back into running and a regular 5pm cheeseboard.
What do you miss in lockdown?
My dog, Cooper! And skiing, being able to see the mountains from here and not ski is quite sad.
What are you working on this week? (we’d love a WIP photo if you can)
I’m juggling a lot of different projects right now — several website design/devs and several brand projects. I’ve included a snapshot from a project I’m working on for a new company, Origin Projects. It’s started by a friend of mine who is an absolute BOSS, so it’s been fun to work with her.
What are you struggling with at present?
I’ve been task switching pretty chronically which means by the end of the day I feel like I haven’t achieved anything, which can feel frustrating.
What did you do this week to relax?
Walking and running have been great, but also just kicking back with a nice beverage and good read!
How are you taking care of yourself and others?
Checking in with friends and family regularly, cooking nice food and dropping it off (when possible/safely).
What’s a book or podcast you’re enjoying at present or one you’d recommend and why?
For an easy listening podcast I love Table Manners — musician Jessie Ware and her Mum, Lennie have big name guests on the show to cook them dinner at home. Its just a great chit-chat/have a giggle podcast while you work/potter round the house.
What’s a movie or series you watched this week or one you’d recommend and why?
Probably the most talked about show this lockdown, but White Lotus is one of the best series I’ve seen in a while. It really nails some of the forms white privilege shows itself in, and the character dynamics are so good. You can’t help but feel uncomfortable the whole time!
