The Designers: Koto’s Vanessa Hopkins on figuring it out while leaving “a little space for the joy”

Our interview series The Designers delves deep into the world’s leading design studios through a series of in-depth conversations with the individuals that make them tick. For the thirty-eight instalment, we had a cheery and motivating chat with Vanessa Hopkins from Koto NY, who unpacks some of the major hurdles and celebrates the big wins of her career so far. As a member of a young studio, she tells us about not only her own growth as a creative in the world of branding, but also that of the studio and the people around her. As part of her life (both inside and outside her role) she delves into the ways she maintains her passion for design, while effectively managing the pressures of daily work and meeting deadlines. Furthermore, Hopkins candidly discusses her experience in overcoming imposter syndrome, the invaluable impact of mentors on her growth as a designer, and her favourite ways to chill out outside of work. PT: Hi Vanessa, how are you? VH: I’m doing great! I’m actually out of the city right now on a little ski trip in Vermont, so I’m definitely in my happy place!