A Day in the Life of Amy Globus, Co-Founder of Team Design Studio
Could you walk me through a typical day in your role?
My days are fast-paced. All of the projects that Team works on, everything that I experience – from family breakfasts to taking my kids to school to the books I read – intertwine and inform my creative process. When I’m in the office, I’m usually on calls with clients tackling the unique challenges that come with each project and finding solutions that fit. I spend a lot of time with our designers, strategists, and project managers making sure that our strategy, design, and overall creative visions are aligned. We laugh a lot too.
What was your early career like?
I began my career as a visual artist, working with everything from crystals to sound mixing – I even raised an octopus. From the start, I knew that I wanted to explore what it means to be human. My love of learning drove me to try any and everything that sparked my curiosity. It wasn’t until I started working in design that I realized how much creative freedom I’d had as an artist. At an agency, there’s often little room for mistakes or time to experiment and try new things. When things move fast, you have to keep up.
What inspires your personal art?
Everything – nature and human nature. I’m fascinated by the ways we interact with our environment, how it shapes us, and how we shape it in return. Whether it’s the vastness of a landscape or the intricacies of human relationships, I’m always curious about the connections we create with the world, both natural and constructed. There’s a deep mystery and beauty in nature that speaks to me, especially in how it intersects with our emotions, memories, and sense of identity. My work often explores these layers, about finding the spaces where the external world mirrors our inner lives.
How has your art career informed your role as creative director at Team?
I find that my career as a visual artist always seeps through the cracks of everything I do. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of cross-pollination, so whether it’s making honey, reading books to my kids, watching movies, going to art shows, or teaching myself about business – all ends up in the work I do at Team.
How do you approach design with an artist’s sensibility?
Though it might not be the first thing that comes to mind, I think the key to approaching design with an artist’s sensibility is through strategy. Strategy is crucial. A big part of my process is holding up a mirror to our clients and asking, "Does this work authentically represent your aspirations? Is it true to who you are?"
What are your favorite tools?
My favorite tools are the things that inspire me – books like Klara and the Sun by Ishiguro or The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas by Ursula Le Guin, art exhibitions, travel, and learning new crafts or skills. Inspiration is my best tool; it fuels everything I do. It’s those unexpected moments – seeing a new place, reading a passage that sticks with me, or trying my hand at something new – that spark ideas and open up creative possibilities. Software and technology evolve constantly, but inspiration stays with you, shaping the way you think and create in a lasting way.
What’s your dream project/dream client?
I’d love to rebrand Architectural Digest (AD). It’s one of my favorite publications, and as a long-time subscriber and interior design fanatic, I feel it’s about time for a fresh design direction. AD has such a rich history and a strong voice in the design world, but there’s so much opportunity to bring a new perspective forward, one that reflects the evolving world of architecture, design, and culture. A rebrand would be an exciting chance to honor that legacy while pushing the boundaries of what the magazine can represent moving forward.
What career advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to stay connected – with others, with yourself, and with the things that inspire you. When you’re starting out, whether it’s in a new project or building a business, it’s easy to feel out of place and doubt yourself. But it’s important to recognize the value of your skills and experience and trust that you can handle what comes your way. I’d also remind her to own her accomplishments. As women, we’re often encouraged to be modest and share the spotlight, and while giving credit is important, it’s equally okay to be proud of your work and to voice that pride. Finally, I’d tell her to never lose that sense of experimentation and curiosity. In design, you’ll come across systems and ways of working that seem rigid. But before you follow the established path just because "that’s how it’s always been done," remember to consider things from your own fresh, creative perspective. There’s never just one way to solve a problem. Trust your instincts.
Anything else to add?
I believe that exploration, taking risks, and being authentic are key to both personal growth and creative success. I encourage others, especially women, to own their accomplishments, trust their instincts, and approach challenges as chances to innovate. Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how staying connected to what drives you makes all the difference. Confidence, curiosity, and collaboration are what help you thrive – not just in the creative industry, but in life.
FAQs:
Q: How did you get started in the design industry?
A: I began my career as a visual artist, working with various mediums, including sound and performance.
Q: What inspired your transition to design?
A: I wanted to explore what it means to be human, and my love of learning drove me to try new things, leading me to design.
Q: How do you approach design with an artist’s sensibility?
A: Through strategy, which is crucial. I hold up a mirror to our clients and ask if the work authentically represents their aspirations.
Q: What’s your favorite design project you’ve worked on?
A: I’m proud of our work on the Pfizer rebrand, as well as our projects with the Independent Art Fair and The Bronx Museum.
Q: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about design?
A: The importance of strategy and trusting your instincts, as well as the value of exploration and curiosity.
