The Top 40 Over 40 honourees are aged 40-plus and are entrepreneurs and leaders who are well-established in their careers in Kelowna.
From the over 100 nominations, the Top 40 were chosen by a panel of judges as ideal examples of the program's criteria.
Rachel Clarida is the Principal, Registered Interior Designer, at Hatch Interior Design Inc.
What does being named to the Top 40 Over 40 list mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally, being named to the Top 40 Over 40 is another affirmation that I am on the right path. Building a business takes resilience and grit, and I am truly grateful to be to doing something I am still so excited about 14 years later.
Professionally, it is an honour to be recognized for the hard work put in over many years. Kelowna is such an entrepreneurial city, and I am thrilled to be named amongst a group of incredibly successful and diverse group of business professionals.
In what ways do you feel you've made a lasting impact on our community or industry?
Over our many years in business, Hatch has had the opportunity to work with a variety of business owners, organizations and developers, designing spaces that include retail stores, corporate offices, condo developments and an elementary school. We have been able to provide our clients interiors that ultimately work for them by ensuring functional spaces that help to strengthen their brand, attract and retain employees, boost sales of their products and services, and create a lasting experience for anyone using the space.
Through the work we have completed we take pride in helping to shape the look and feel of our commercial community.
What advice do you give to those just starting out who hope to make a difference one day? or What’s one piece of wisdom you wish you could share with your younger self?
One piece of advice to those just starting out is to choose your lane and stay true to your vision. When we set out to become the go-to commercial Interior Design firm in the Okanagan we had to say no to projects that did not align with our goals - a tough call when trying to get a new business off the ground. In the end we succeeded in building the firm we wanted because we stuck to our vision.
Who mentored or inspired you earlier in your career, and what lasting impact did they have on you?
There have been so many mentors and inspirational people in my life. So many strong and intelligent women who weren't afraid to go after what they wanted in life. From the beginning, my mom, my grandmothers and my aunts have all had such a big impact on who I am today - I am so fortunate to have such an amazing family. They all continue to inspire me in both my personal life and my career.
How have you navigated change and innovation in your field, especially over the past decade?
In the design world we are always staying on top of new developments in materials and technology, ensuring that we are offering our clients up to date informaiton and design elements.
We are also continuously navigating the changing working environment and developing design solutions to help support this. Our clients count on us to offer advice and options that will help their businesses thrive, and staying at the forefront of societal and workplace trends is incredibly important.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind through your work or community involvement? or What’s next for you? Any exciting projects, goals, or new chapters on the horizon?
As the owner of Hatch Interior Design, I’m proud to leave a legacy of elevating how people experience space in our community. We have worked hard to create environments that not only support business success but also reflect the values and identities of those who use them. Through thoughtful design, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence, Hatch has helped to shape the commercial landscape in Kelowna and beyond. The legacy I hope to leave behind is setting a high standard for commercial interiors, and contributing to making our community a more beautiful, functional, and inspiring place to live and work.
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