Monika's passion in Architecture and Urbanity already grew in her childhood. Did you know that Monika was involved in the transformation of the city of Berlin?

Who is Monika Codourey?
I am a people-oriented, curiosity driven and determined life-explorer. My mission is to love, learn and make positive impact.

In my early years growing up in Poland, I discovered my passion for Architecture and Design. It became clear to me that my desire is to create cities and buildings where people can thrive. I wanted to be inspired by best world architecture examples, learn different cultures and therefore I left Poland – for a great adventure - to live and study in the United States and Canada. I drove from Detroit, Michigan across the North American continent on the Trans-Canada Highway (over the White River - the coldest spot in Canada -58°C and the Rocky Mountains) in the middle of the winter to settle down in Vancouver, BC. After graduation, I worked as an Architect in one of the best architectural firms. But, my Architecture DNA told me to move to Germany where I participated in rebuilding city of Berlin. Furthermore, I moved to Zurich to study and teach Design at the ETH Zurich and University of Arts and Design (ZHdK). Since last 10 years, I work as an Architect & Workplace Consultant and Transformative Coach. I help organisations to develop strategy for innovative solutions in their work environment, promote health & wellbeing and support cultural transformation. I enjoy living in Horgen with my lovely teenage son & daughter and two cats. I love gardening, cooking, long walks along the lake or in the woods, to hike and ski in the mountains and work on my personal development. My next out of comfort challenge is to overcome my fears and swim across the Zurich Lake in Summer 2022.

Who or what has strongly influenced your professional career?
My grandfather taught me to never give up and constantly learn new things and enjoy life. He also inspired me to be curious about different cultures and to travel.

My professor at the University of British Columbia in Canada showed me how to use the computer as a medium for distant collaboration in design process (Virtual Design Studio was at that time pioneer research). Later on, it was the reason why I moved to Switzerland to pursue my postgraduate study in Architecture & Computing.  

My own “Living-in-Motion” life pattern, being constantly asked the question “Where do you come from?” became starting point for my artistic work and PhD research on Airport as Interface, Mobile Work and Travel in Hybrid Space.

My boss at Hoffman-la-Roche and my good friend inspired me to work further on my personal growth and in consequence I discovered my passion for transformative coaching.

Why are you member of bwomen?
bwomen is a great opportunity to meet and develop friendships with other like-minded women, share knowledge and experience, get helpful advice.

I am determined to support the bwomen network to grow and encourage women to be visible, collaborate and to give mutual support to achieve their goals.

On which topics can other members contact you and where?
Architectural Consulting & Strategic Planning
Retrofit & Interior Design

Workplace Strategy, Activity Based Working, Hybrid Work
Envisioning Workshops, Design Thinking
Feasibility Studies, Scenario Analysis
Workplace Design & Implementation

Workplace Change Management
Transformative Coaching
Mental Fitness Training (PQ)
WELL Building Standard (wellcertified.com)