At Tsunami Axis, we believe in the power of design to transform workplaces and in the people who make that transformation possible. This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to spotlight some incredible women who shape our company and visionary female designers who have left their mark on the world of furniture.
We sat down with six inspiring women from Tsunami Axis, each captured on a chair designed by an influential female designer. Their stories, combined with those of the pioneering women behind these iconic pieces, remind us of the importance of innovation, collaboration, and representation in design.
Sophie Davis, Senior Account Manager – London
Celebrating seven years with Tsunami Axis, Sophie Davis has had the privilege of collaborating with key clients on multi-location furniture installation projects across EMEA and APAC. Every project brings the opportunity to work alongside brilliant colleagues and visionary clients, creating inspiring workspaces that shape the way people work worldwide. While much of what happens occurs behind the scenes, she takes immense pride in the impact her work has — enhancing workplaces and elevating experiences across the globe.
Sophie Davis speaks on her admiration for the Vitra Eames Lounge Chair — a true icon of comfort, craftsmanship, and ingenuity.
“Just as the right workplace transforms how people work, great design shapes how we feel, interact, and innovate. The Eames Lounge Chair is a testament to the brilliance of Ray Eames – her influence is woven into its sculptural elegance and material harmony.”
Designed by Charles and Ray Eames, this chair represents more than just timeless style; it embodies the brilliance of a partnership where Ray’s artistic sensibility played a defining role. While Charles often took the spotlight, Ray’s influence can be seen in the chair’s sculptural elegance, material harmony.
She continues:
“On International Women’s Day, I reflect on the many talented women — past and present — who have shaped the design world, often without the recognition they deserve. The Eames Lounge Chair is a testament to the power of collaboration and a reminder to celebrate the creativity, vision, and impact of women in design. Today, I not only celebrate the beauty of this timeless piece but also the incredible women I am fortunate to work with, whose talent continues to shape inspiring spaces around the world.”
Zainab Aminu, Project Manager – London
As Project Manager at Tsunami Axis in London, Zainab Aminu collaborates with various departments across the business. She’s passionate about turning ideas into reality and bringing teams together to create impactful workplace solutions.
Zainab has chosen Danish designer Rikke Frost’s Sideways Sofa, designed for Carl Hansen & Søn, stating that the chair’s perfect balance between elegance and functionality is what drew her to it.
“The fluid curves of the form speak to a timeless grace. The women behind its design has created beauty that both invites and empowers, making every detail feel unique.”
Frost’s Sideways Range is a testament to her ability to merge tradition and modernity. With a background in industrial design, she focuses on sustainable materials and innovative production methods, creating furniture that balances function with artistic expression.
Shelley Wyse, Senior Sales Support – Edinburgh
Having been part of Tsunami Axis since 2012, Shelley Wyse has navigated roles across Sales Support, Account Management, and Project Management. Now, as Senior Sales Support, she brings a wealth of knowledge to support the team and enhance the customer journey.
Shelley sits on the Bolete sofa by Patricia Urquiola for Andreu World, a designer known for her seamless blend of craftsmanship, sustainability, and industrial research.
“I love the organic shape of the Bolete Sofa. It feels soft and inviting, but also structured and modern.
The fact that it incorporates eco-plastics shows how great design and sustainability can go hand in hand.”
Patricia Urquiola, a highly respected designer of her generation, is known for her ability to push the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship while embracing new technologies. Her work spans furniture, lighting, and interiors, always maintaining a strong emphasis on sustainability and material innovation. As one of the leading voices in contemporary design, she continues to inspire change, proving that thoughtful, innovative design can transform the way we experience everyday spaces.
Nada Hassoun, Sales Manager – Luxembourg
Nada Hassoun joined the Tsunami Axis Luxembourg team in late 2023 as an Account Manager, and now as Sales Manager she works on exciting projects ranging from global accounts to local clients. Reflecting on her journey, she shares:
“Along the way, I’ve met incredible people and built strong relationships—especially with the inspiring women leading these projects. Their vision and determination never cease to amaze me.”
Nada chose the Florence Knoll Sofa, a piece deeply rooted in Bauhaus principles. She explains:
“Experiencing its detailed craftsmanship first-hand, I understand why each piece is built to last a lifetime. A perfect representation of simplicity, precision, and enduring beauty.
Florence Knoll believed that furniture should be both functional and beautifully simple – no excess, just pure, thoughtful design.
It’s a classic – something I would have loved 50 years ago, love today, and will continue to admire in the future.”
Florence Knoll was a trailblazer in corporate interior design, defining modern workspace aesthetics through her Planning Unit at Knoll. She saw furniture as an integral part of spatial design, rather than mere decoration and continues to leave her mark on the industry.
Deborah Renz, Project Manager – Frankfurt
A key member of our Frankfurt team, Deborah Renz, has been instrumental in delivering workplace solutions across Germany. She reflects on the Dapper chair, designed by Nipa Doshi of Doshi Levien for HAY.
“The Dapper Chair strikes a perfect balance between form and function. Its sculptural shape and thoughtful ergonomics make it a standout in any space – whether at home or in the office. Its design merges innovation with timeless appeal.”
Nipa Doshi, co-founder of Doshi Levien, has built a career exploring the intersection of diverse cultures in design. Her work disrupts homogeneity, celebrating beauty and craftsmanship in new and unexpected ways.
Sandrine Vincent, Managing Director – Switzerland
Sandrine Vincent, Managing Director of SV Concept in Switzerland since 2009, also shares her admiration for Ray Eames and the Vitra Eames Lounge Chair.
“I continue to draw inspiration from women designers like Ray Eames, whose groundbreaking work serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact women have had on the history of design and creativity.”
Honouring the Women Driving Change
At Tsunami Axis, we celebrate the contributions of women in all aspects of design and business. Whether through crafting inspiring workplaces or pushing the boundaries of furniture design, these women remind us of the power of creativity, resilience, and innovation.
This International Women’s Day, we honour their legacy and look forward to a future where diversity and inclusion continue to shape the design industry.
