A talk with Caroline Medinger from Medinger-Architecture

In our Featured Story Series (FSS), we connected with the founder of  Medinger-Architecture, Caroline Medinger. We have a particular fondness for entrepreneurs, and today we would like to introduce you to one Caroline Medinger who has been designing modern, simple and pared-down architecture in Luxembourg since 2014.
Let's have a quick introduction about yourself. Where are you from and what do you do?

Hello, I am Caroline Medinger, originally from Luxembourg, I work as an architect and business owner in Contern where I also live with my British husband and two children.
What's your entrepreneurial journey? How did you get started with Medinger-Architecture?

After my Masters in architecture at the Université libre de Bruxelles I have worked as an architect at Fassbinder architects until I felt ready to go it alone. In 2013 I decided to found my own business, starting by working a second job as a Mathematics teacher to fund the startup costs and help with initial expansion.

Once I had a solid client basis, I started growing the business and hiring other architects with different fields of expertise. In 2021 I obtained an additional diploma in Urban Planning which was the next step in developing the business specializing in housing allowing us to develop housing estates and large-scale housing projects. Our team is nowb roadly positioned in this field, so that we can respond to any enquiry, from authorizations of small extensions to the planning of an urban district; our architects are trained in the renovation of historic buildings, energy improvements, modern new builds and the list goes on.
What is the importance of your work?
We work for literally everyone, we are planning social housing as well as urban villas, our architecture is created with a lot of thought and experience as we know that it is life changing for our clients, which makes it a very challenging, but also a hugely satisfying job.
What are you most proud of about Medinger-Architecture?
It is difficult to establish a new business in this field, most companies have grown over generations and associations. Shortly after taking the decision to make a second round of growth, we were hit by Covid, horrible wars and now the recent high interest rates and building crisis. So, I guess I’m proud of our resilience and the fact we are still standing tall.
Additionally, it makes me proud to say that we are an “all women” office, even though this has never been an intention. It makes me proud that we, as women, are managing to assert ourselves, in an often still male dominant environment, due to our experience and quality of work.
What are your hobbies and interests?
My family, when I’m not working, I try to spend most time possible with my children and partner.
Another big passion is overlanding, so travelling without taking a plane. My most extreme journey took over 9 months, I got from here to Bali without taking a plane, I’ve seen very “untouristy” places in Iran, Pakistan, Tibet… but also crossed Australia and North America always with only a rucksack and sleeping in a tent most of the time.
What's your favorite spot in Luxembourg?
Honestly it is impossible for me to pick ones pot, I love the city itself, especially the Pétrusse and Alzette valley, but also the North, the castles….the castle in Vianden still gives me goosebumps every time I see it. I love spending time at the Moselle as it makes me feel like I’m on holiday…
What's your top 3-recommendations for a newcomer in Luxembourg?
Go out and explore, especially on Sundays when the shops are closed. Don’t miss all the “Dëppefester” (small celebrations), the town clubs organize, it is here that people let their hair down…

- the multicultural environment is a great source for learning and understanding the world better, be open and respectful and it will enrich your life tremendously.

What's your favorite quote?
I don’t really have one, but I love OscarWilde, so here is one of his:
“To live is the rarest thing in the world…”
What would you say would be the recommendations of people who want to start their own business today?
Have a chat with the Chambre of Commerce, they are very helpful and Guichet.lu is a good source of information if you don’t know where to start. Never hesitate to ask and call administrations if things are not clear. Most importantly: Just do it - you’ll only regret the things you don’t do.

Visit : medinger-architecture.lu