Founding story September 2023: Studio Wahoo
Katharina Wahle (38) is an interior designer and worked in trade fair construction until she took parental leave. However, her real passion is designing surfaces and playing with colors and materials. This led to the creation of Studio Wahoo, a design studio in the heart of Linden Süd. Here, Katharina develops individual and custom-made surfaces and objects for her customers, designs unique pieces and prototypes for the serial production of her own home accessories collection and regularly organizes workshops where she shares her passion for experimentation with others.
© hannoverimpuls GmbH
How did you come up with the idea of founding the company?
The idea of setting up my own design studio grew slowly. I had a great job, which included designing a trade fair stand for hannoverimpuls. During my parental leave, I was able to work more intensively on my idea. And when I was offered the right space, I quit my job and focused on the start-up. I officially launched Studio Wahoo in June 2023.
What is special about Studio Wahoo?
Colors and surfaces play an important role in the quality of stay in rooms. I started experimenting with a water-based composite material. The material is incredibly versatile, can be colored individually and does not require a kiln. Functionally comparable to cast concrete, the material is characterized by a better CO2 balance and a lower weight. I can use it to develop a wide variety of surfaces and patterns, such as terrazzo, reliefs, structures or monochrome surfaces. Wood chips, stones or other effect additives can also be added. This allows me to create individual surfaces for walls, furniture and other objects that significantly influence the effect of the room. The design can be quirky, fun, daring or restrained, elegant and calm, to name just a few possibilities.
There is a lot to discover in my studio and I would like to share the creative space that has been created here. That's why I regularly offer workshops where you can make your own unique handmade items without any prior knowledge.
Who is your target group?
I am versatile in this area: Companies that want to have their rooms or trade fair stands individually designed, trade fair construction companies, but also furniture stores, store owners, the catering industry and people who love something special within their own four walls. My workshops are primarily attended by private individuals who want to try things out, but the studio can also be booked for creative events.
What tips do you have for other founders?
A start-up is not a sprint, but a marathon. You need stamina and time, but you will make progress step by step. My tip: get outside support and ask for help. You don't have to be able to do everything. I also got inspiration from podcasts and found it online.
© hannoverimpuls GmbHContact details:
Studio Wahoo
Ricklinger Str. 89
30449 Hanover
Phone: +49 177 2780522
E-Mail:info@studiowahoo.de
www.studiowahoo.de
How did hannoverimpuls help you with the start-up?
I got in touch with Martina Reuschel from hannoverimpuls. She helped me a lot with my business plan and gave me important tips on how to think differently and question myself. I used this to underpin my business model. That was really good. She also helped me to apply for the start-up grant.
Martina Reuschel, Project Manager Start-up and Entrepreneurship, Projekt Gründerinnen-Consultaboutthe cooperation with Katharina:
We met a few times and I was able to strengthen her entrepreneurial side. Katharina has so much creativity, know-how and energy, it's already a really great studio!