Hi! I’m Luise, a product designer from Switzerland, and I’m about to begin an exciting 18-month J-1 Cultural Exchange Program in New York City. I’ll be a Trainee at Sherle Wagner International, a company known for creating luxurious bathroom fixtures and timeless interior details. I feel incredibly lucky to take part in this experience and can’t wait to dive into a new creative environment full of inspiration, learning, and exciting challenges.
I’m based in Zurich, Switzerland, where I design solid wood furniture with a strong focus on craftsmanship, material quality, and long-lasting design. This exchange in the U.S. will allow me to learn new methods, discover different approaches, and see how design evolves in a global context, something I’ve always dreamed of exploring. I’m especially excited to experience how design is approached in the U.S. and how cultural influences shape creative decisions in real-world projects.
I found Architect-US while researching international exchange programs, and I’m so glad I did. Georgiana has been wonderfully helpful from the very beginning; always kind, responsive, and patient when I had yet another question about the process. Her guidance made everything so much easier, and I truly felt supported every step of the way. Having someone truly invested in your journey and ready to guide you through every step is something special and deeply reassuring.
My visa interview is coming up soon, and once that’s complete, everything will be set. I’m off to start this new chapter in New York. There’s a lot I’m looking forward to: connecting with people in the design field, learning from new mentors, and getting inspired by the energy of the city that never sleeps.
This exchange is more than just professional growth. It’s a chance to experience a different culture, build new perspectives, and return home with fresh ideas.
