Creativity Meets Comfort: A Conversation with Claudia Böttcher about Design and Coffee

Claudia Böttcher, better known as @doitbutdoitnow on Instagram, is not only a creative soul who fills her home with unique pieces but also a passionate coffee lover. With an eye for detail and a clear design vision, she creates spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. We had the chance to visit her at home to learn more about her design philosophy and coffee rituals – and of course, nunc. was part of the experience.

When you design your home, what kind of atmosphere do you want to create for yourself?

Claudi: I used to have a strong beige phase, which has since changed a bit, but the basic idea remains. I need calm for my eyes, which is why I often work in tone-on-tone. I like it when there isn’t too much clutter, so more minimalist. I probably still have more than others, but my home should definitely have a calm and relaxing vibe. I think that's the most important thing for me – that you come in, feel comfortable, and also feel the peace.

What kind of feeling do you want to evoke in your guests when they enter your home?

Claudi: Of course, you want guests to feel at home. But I also want them to walk around the space with curiosity, and maybe stop at a special piece and say, "Wow, that's cool, I've never seen anything like that."

Is there a piece in your home where everyone stops and says, "Wow"?

Claudi: I really think everyone stops in front of the shelf with all the coffee utensils – in the dining room. I have a vintage WHB shelf, filled with coffee accessories that I rarely use but have a passion for collecting. Everyone stops and has to take a closer look. The next question is always, "Do you actually use all of this?"

Is that your favorite detail, or do you have another detail where you like to stop and look a little longer yourself?

Claudi: It’s hard to pick because I like many things. But my dining table is something special. It was cast from concrete and adorned with marble pieces, making it unique. I also really like my sofa because it's a mix of new and vintage. And since I painted my kitchen yellow, I often stop and think, "Wow, my kitchen looks so sunny."

Where do you get your inspiration from – Pinterest, travel, or maybe classic magazines?

Claudi: Mainly travel. I love strolling through cities and collecting new impressions. The feeling of seeing something for the first time is unique and always inspires me. But architecture, other homes, and social media are also part of my sources of inspiration. Often, though, it’s small everyday moments – like when the light falls beautifully or when you're sitting in a nice café – that also inspire me.

When you get inspiration so organically, do you follow design trends, or are you more someone who creates your own style?

Claudi: I’d say you can’t really avoid trends. It’s like fashion – we all thought "no way" to skinny jeans, and a few years later, we all wore them. So, I don’t exclude trends, but I still do my own thing. I’ve been doing this for many years, and I love vintage pieces, especially from the '60s and '70s. That hasn’t really changed for me over the past 10 years.

If you had to describe your home, how would you explain your style to someone who has never been there?

Claudi: It’s a mix of modern and vintage, with a love for the '70s. It’s minimalist, but a bit more playful than in other homes. Maybe you could describe it as eclectic, but it all comes together well.

So, you combine what works best for you, right?

Claudi: Exactly, like chrome and yellow – you might not see that combination in other homes, but it somehow works in mine. (laughs)

Do you have a favorite spot in your home where you love to drink coffee?

Claudi: I have two favorite spots, depending on when I’m drinking my coffee. I always have my first cappuccino in bed, it’s my highlight of the morning. But I also love sitting in my kitchen – it feels almost like a small bistro. That’s where I drink my afternoon cappuccino and look out the window.

What can’t be missing from your coffee corner?

Claudi: A good coffee machine, of course, and high-quality beans. I prefer specialty coffee, currently Kolo Coffee. And definitely handmade ceramic mugs. I have so many, and I pick one depending on my mood.

You’ve tested nunc., what would you call the highlight or game-changer?

Claudi: The best thing about nunc. for me is that it does most of the work for you, but you still feel like you did it yourself. You can make the perfect cappuccino or latte without all the hassle. Especially the pre-setting of the grinder – it saves so much time and stress. That’s the absolute highlight for me.

If you were to recommend nunc. to someone, who would it be perfect for?

Claudi: nunc. is perfect for people who want that barista feeling but don’t want to fight with all the details. You have to help a little, but it’s quick, and you get high-quality coffee with beautifully frothed milk – all without the stress.

So, more like a stress killer for the morning?

Claudi: Absolutely. You don’t need to fully understand the technique, but the result is still really good. And if you don’t know how to properly set up an espresso machine, it’s not such a big deal. It takes a lot off your plate without compromising the result. I really like that.

Thank you for the great conversation and the insights into your home and coffee rituals.

Claudi: My pleasure! It was fun. (laughs) Now I just need my coffee before the next meeting. See you soon!