KATIE PAIGE - SENIOR DIGITAL PRODUCT DESIGNER

I create positive, inclusive, and deeply human experiences. My journey into Product Design has been anything but traditional, a story shaped by diverse experiences, unique challenges, and transformative insights that influence every project I take on.

I first encountered the concept of 'user-centred' in 2005 while working for the National Autistic Society, breaking down barriers that prevented disabled people from accessing their communities and the activities that were meaningful to them. This inspired me to gain my degree in Occupational Therapy working for the NHS in children's services. From 2010 onwards I tackled complex user problems with creativity and big picture thinking, designing accessible home adaptations, facilitating workshops, training and empowering children with severe and complex disabilities to access activities of daily living that most of us would take for granted. These experiences shaped my understanding of empathy, collaboration, and the power of designing solutions that truly make a difference.

In 2015, I pursued a creative outlet alongside my professional work, diving into the world of aromatherapy. This evolved into Botanyblend, a massage oil brand that allowed me to explore the power of design in a different way. I intuitively utilised design thinking processes, identifying user problems, speaking with people, testing with people, iterating the formula based on feedback, refining scents, consistencies and aesthetics until a handful of beautiful and inspiring products were created. The products were a success, winning two Beauty Shortlist awards and featuring in many famous publications such as Stylist Magazine, Manor Magazine and the Telegraph.

Around the same time, I secured a secondment with the NHS to redesign the navigation for the Torbay Child and Family Health Occupational Therapy website. Users were struggling to access important therapy information, as a subject matter expert with an affinity for design, I saw an opportunity to make a positive difference. This experience was a turning point. I sold Botanyblend in 2021 and used the funds to pursue Product Design, formalising my skills through the UX Design Institute.

In 2022, I joined UK Hydrographic Office. My diverse skills and the transferable knowledge from my tapestry of experiences helped me quickly adapt to my new role as a ‘Interaction Designer’.

Knowing I had ground to cover, I applied myself wholeheartedly into the world of Product Design, taking on every opportunity, pushing myself, and learning with passion and dedication. Within two years, I earned a promotion to Senior Interaction Designer, a reflection of my commitment, curiosity, and drive to create meaningful, user-centred experiences.

On a personal note, I live in rural coastal South Devon with my family. I’m a mother to Seb and a wife to Will, and we share our home with our cat, Meer and dog, Rey. We are an active family who enjoy mountain biking, snowboarding, and hiking together.