Ozge Fettahlioglu | Managing Director | Cocoplum Design Studio and Boxareno Modular Constructions
Ozge Fettahlioglu is the Managing Director of Cocoplum Design Studio and Boxareno Modular Constructions. With a passion for innovative design and a desire to improve lives through enhanced built environments, she has made significant strides in the construction industry. Ozge’s fascination with how spaces influence well-being and productivity has led her to focus on bespoke wellness design and biophilic principles. She is committed to making good design accessible to everyone. At EliteX, we are proud to have Ozge Fettahlioglu as part of Impactful Women in Construction, 2024.
As a visionary leader in bespoke wellness design, Ozge oversees projects that prioritize wellness and sustainability. Her companies eliminate intermediaries by directly manufacturing and importing products, ensuring streamlined solutions and unparalleled craftsmanship. Specializing in custom modular houses, hotel construction and renovations, and bespoke home staging, Ozge is dedicated to cutting-edge design and quality. Her role as a board member of Biophilic Cities Australia further solidifies her influence in integrating nature into urban spaces. Ozge’s first job in the construction industry was her own renovation project. She aimed to test various methods and suppliers to make bespoke construction and materials available in Australia. This experience taught her the importance of meticulous planning, clear communication, and adaptability to unforeseen challenges. It also reinforced her belief in innovative design solutions that balance functionality and aesthetics.
“The construction industry is building the future, deciding how people will live their lives. If a company does not understand the value of diversity, this will not be reflected in their work, and they cannot survive in the current diverse environment.”
The construction industry has changed significantly since Ozge started her career. There is now a greater emphasis on sustainability, wellness, and technology integration, although the change has been slow. Her firm, partnered with companies that have over 40 years of experience in modular construction in Europe, continues to face resistance in Australia, where modular construction is still viewed as an innovation. One project Ozge is particularly proud of is a modular hotel constructed for a major international hotel chain. This project showcased the potential of modular construction to deliver high-quality, bespoke finishes while significantly reducing construction time. It also incorporated biophilic design elements, promoting well-being and a connection to nature.
As a woman in the construction industry, Ozge has faced challenges related to gender bias. She has overcome these challenges by consistently demonstrating her expertise, staying resilient, and building a strong support network of friends, family, and colleagues. She believes that the support of a partner, happy kids, cheerleader workmates, and close friends is more important than the forces against you. Ozge believes that the industry can attract more women by providing mentorship opportunities and creating educational programs. As a lecturer at major universities, she emphasizes the importance of initiatives that highlight diverse career paths in construction. She believes that change starts with education, which can encourage more women to pursue careers in the industry.
Ozge Fettahlioglu has drawn inspiration from various people around her rather than a single mentor. She adopts a “yes and” attitude from her daughter, learns to stay true to herself from her son, embraces precision from her husband, and picks up charm from her friend. Ozge feels fortunate to be surrounded by so many inspirational individuals who influence her career and personal growth. In the construction industry, essential skills for success include strong project management abilities, effective communication, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Ozge emphasizes the importance of a deep understanding of design principles and a passion for innovation. These skills are crucial for anyone looking to make a mark in the industry.
“If you don’t love it, don’t do it. Study something finance-related instead and become a venture capitalist.”
Balancing the demands of a career with personal life is challenging, but Ozge finds joy in her work, which makes it feel less like a job. She works long hours and her family shares the same work ethic. For balance, they consciously decide to spend quality time together, putting aside devices to talk, eat, and travel. Practicing mindfulness helps Ozge stay present and focused, ensuring she makes the most of her time with family and personal interests. For young women considering a career in construction, Ozge advises that they should only pursue it if they love it. If not, she suggests studying something finance-related and becoming a venture capitalist. Passion is key to enjoying and succeeding in this demanding field.
Ozge is actively involved in initiatives supporting women in construction. She is a Board Member at Biophilic Cities Australia, an Industry Partner with Western Sydney University Women of Wisdom, and part of the Masterbuilders Women in Construction group. These roles allow her to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in the construction industry and support initiatives that promote the involvement of women in this field. Diversity and inclusion play a crucial role in the success of the construction industry. Ozge believes that diverse teams bring a range of perspectives and ideas, leading to more innovative solutions and better decision-making. Inclusion ensures that all voices are heard and valued, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. Companies that fail to understand the value of diversity risk falling behind in a diverse and evolving market.
To stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in construction, Ozge engages in continuous learning. She attends industry conferences, participates in professional development programs, and connects with her network of peers and experts. She enjoys reading academic articles and wishes she could continuously learn even in her sleep. Staying informed and embracing new knowledge are essential to staying ahead in the rapidly evolving construction industry. Ozge believes the future for women in construction is promising. As the industry increasingly recognizes the value of diversity and inclusion, more opportunities will open up for women at all levels. She envisions more women joining the industry, leading to greater collaboration and mentoring. She believes that an increasing number of women will take on leadership roles, driving innovation and positive change in the industry.
Ozge hopes to leave a lasting legacy of promoting wellness and sustainability in the construction industry. She aims to demonstrate that high-quality, innovative design can enhance lives and create healthier, more sustainable environments. Additionally, she hopes to inspire more women to pursue careers in construction and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive industry.
“Balance is when we decide to have family time, putting all devices aside to talk, eat, and travel.”
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ozgefettahlioglu/
Boxareno | Modular Constructions: www.boxareno.com.au
Cocoplum | Wellness Interior Design Studio: www.cocoplum.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocoplumstyle/
