Victoria Bodevin, Founder, Victoria Bodevin Architectes

In Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, where historical charm meets modern elegance, a visionary is quietly engaged in revolutionizing the world of architecture. With devout craftsmanship that never fails to appeal to our creative sensibilities and elevate the standard of aesthetic living, Victoria Bodevin designs every space with immaculate beauty and precision. At Victoria Bodevin Architectes, every creation is a truthful replica of human character embodying rapturous beauty, serenity, and harmony of life.

As an architect with a diploma from a prestigious engineering university, Victoria Bodevin, the founder of the eponymous designer company, is just not focused on the structure and walls; she advises her clients on everything, from furnishings and lighting to artwork selection. As an artist, Victoria believes that every structure has a narrative waiting to be told. Her unique design philosophy transcends traditional boundaries, blending storytelling with architectural excellence to craft spaces that inspire and captivate. Victoria’s approach is deeply rooted in understanding the essence of the people, history, and landscapes she engages with. Her creations seamlessly blend innovation with functionality, innovating spaces that are as atmospheric as they are soulful. Today, we proudly unfold the journey of this designer maverick, transforming Switzerland into a global leader in innovative living spaces.

A Unique Journey: From Montreux to Masterpieces

Victoria’s journey is as diverse and rich as the spaces she creates. Born to Swiss-American parents with a penchant for design and heritage, Bodevin’s early years were spent in various European cities, absorbing the cultural and architectural diversity that would later become a hallmark of her work. Her formative years in Paris, where she completed her French Baccalaureate with honors, laid a strong academic foundation. This foundation was further solidified at EPF Lausanne, where she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Science and Architecture.

The turning point in Victoria’s career came serendipitously with her first project “The Vigneronne” in Montreux. This complete refurbishment project, which she undertook immediately after graduating, became her first major endeavor, serving as a live portfolio to showcase her talents to potential clients. “This experience was the kick-off for my career,” Victoria reflects. “I had ‘a home’ to show to my future clients at the age of 27, which gave me a lot of credibility.”

This blend of urban sophistication and a deep appreciation for nature, nurtured in the Swiss Alps, forms the bedrock of Victoria’s design ethos. Her passion for creating “meaningful environments” shared with her sister, a doctor in construction law, further enriches her understanding of the intricacies involved in architectural projects.

Overcoming challenges with Determination and Resilience

The road to success is never a straight-line path. It meanders through challenging terrains that often lead to beautiful destinations. Victoria Bodevin’s journey not only tested her creative prowess but also put her practical skills and resilience to trial. Her early projects required a steep learning curve, especially in areas where academic training had not prepared her for construction costs, project coordination, and practical site management. Her first house project became her classroom, where she learned the intricacies of construction alongside the craftsmen, who have now become integral to her company. “The craftsmen that worked on this house are the backbone of my company. The majority still work exclusively with me,” she shares.

Understanding the importance of reputation in Switzerland’s word-of-mouth society, Victoria started small, taking on modest projects with minimal pay. “I knew from the beginning that building a solid foundation was essential,” she states. 

Moreover, Victoria’s journey is marked by a continuous quest for knowledge. In 2023, she pursued higher education in Finance and Accounting at HEC Lausanne, exemplifying her commitment to professional growth.

This formal education, coupled with her professional network, provided the necessary structure and professionalism to her company, helping her navigate the financial complexities with grace and impact.

Communication, she believes, is another cornerstone of her success. Her communication skills, honed through a childhood of constant adaptation, proved crucial. “In a single day, I communicate with people from various backgrounds – from foreign workers to high-profile clients. This profession demands exceptional communication skills,” she emphasizes. Victoria’s commitment to continuous improvement led her to therapy, enhancing her ability to navigate the complexities of running a one-woman show in a competitive industry. Victoria notes, “Embracing uncertainty and maintaining a positive influence on my team and clients are the keys to my approach.”

Crafting Stories Through Architecture

Victoria’s designs are more than just spaces; they are architectural marvels crafted to rekindle our past and enliven our present. “Designing a space is about writing my clients’ stories,” she says. Placing clients at the center of the design process ensures that each project is tailored to their unique needs and dreams. Unlike larger firms, clients know they are guided personally by Victoria Bodevin, adding significant personal value in an industry often marked by impersonal service.

This client-centered approach has resulted in diverse projects, each promising to recount the unique story of its inhabitants. Victoria’s ability to merge storytelling with architecture sets her apart from other architectural firms, where projects become impersonal. Her hands-on involvement guarantees a bespoke design experience, creating spaces that resonate deeply with those who experience them. 

Building a Cohesive Team: The Backbone of Success

While Victoria operates solo as an architect, her success is underpinned by a robust network of skilled craftsmen and advisors. “The same team has been with me for six years, built through word of mouth and mutual respect,” she says. This collaboration, rooted in trust and shared vision, allows her to tackle complex projects with confidence and precision. The journey to build this team was gradual, involving numerous refurbishments and a keen eye for talent. “It’s a lot of word of mouth and recommendations,” she explains. This painstaking process has resulted in a team that mirrors its leader’s commitment, passionately advocating for quality and excellence.

Balancing Act: Navigating Work and Life

For Victoria, maintaining a work-life balance is crucial to sustaining her entrepreneurial spirit. “I always knew the entrepreneur life is a marathon, not a sprint,” she states. Setting clear boundaries with clients and keeping work notifications separate from personal time are strategies she employs to maintain this balance.

Physical vulnerabilities can often jeopardize our moral and mental balance, but through rigorous self-care and professional guidance, we need to maintain the equilibrium. Therapy has played a significant role in shaping Victoria’s life, helping her balance professional success with personal well-being. “Sports are also a big part of my routine – yoga, running, swimming, skiing, and cycling keep me grounded,” she adds.

Future Aspirations: Building on a Strong Foundation

Victoria’s aspirations for the future are as ambitious as her journey so far. Looking ahead, the designer aims to continue with her versatile practice with several projects, ranging from new constructions in the Alps to comprehensive energy and architectural refurbishments. “Refurbishments will become more central to our work, aligning with the growing emphasis on environmental conservation,” she observes. Following these politics, for an upcoming project, since the roof needs to be redone, Victoria is taking this opportunity to rethink the density of an existing home, adding an extra floor. 

Her recent completion of a 240 m2 refurbishment showcases her comprehensive design skills and sets a high bar for future projects.

Victoria’s vision is to offer tailored design services that bring meaning and aesthetic value to her clients’ stories. Her ideas extend beyond individual projects and encompass the broader evolution of the architecture and design industry. Her international network of suppliers and, her resourceful approach to designing spaces ensure that each project is a unique spatial experience.

Advice for Aspiring Designers

Victoria’s advice to aspiring designers is rooted in curiosity and a passion for human connection. She advocates for a curious and open-minded approach to life, viewing every experience as an opportunity to learn and grow. “Relationships with clients fuel me. Every aspect of life- from mountaineering to having coffee in Paris, keep your eyes and arms open to embrace and learn from your experiences,” she shares. This openness to new experiences and a keen sensitivity to human stories make her designs so compelling.

Thus, Victoria Bodevin’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and human connection. As she continues to evolve, innovate, and inspire, Victoria stands as a shining example for aspiring entrepreneurs, embodying the spirit of excellence and passion in every project she undertakes.