At Imageco, we believe that our greatest asset is our people, their creativity, curiosity, and willingness to think differently. From encouraging our team to upskill and explore new techniques, to fostering collaborations across the print industry. We’re passionate about creating opportunities that help our people grow both professionally and personally.
So, when our Studio Manager and senior designer, Becca Kelly, had the chance to spend a week with Cartonlab, a leading Spanish architectural studio celebrated for its innovative approach to sustainable cardboard design, we knew it would be an invaluable experience. Based in Murcia, Cartonlab creates bold, eco-conscious structures and displays that blur the line between architecture, art, and print, making them a natural source of inspiration for a sustainability-driven print company like ours.
We caught up with Becca after her trip to hear all about her time in Spain, what she learned from one of Europe’s most inventive cardboard engineering studios, and how it’s shaping her work back here at Imageco.
What prompted this trip to Cartonlab in Spain, and what were you hoping to get out of the week?
Becca: My Director Nathan and I have always been big fans of Cartonlab and often share their projects with each other for inspiration. What started as a light-hearted joke about me visiting quickly turned into reality, and before I knew it, my flights were booked! I was hoping to come back feeling re-energised and creatively inspired.
Did you discover any techniques, processes, or technologies that you’d like to bring back to Imageco?
Becca: It was really interesting to see how work flows through Cartonlab and the different procedures they have in place. The main one that stood out was the use of apps to provide project visibility, keeping everyone on top of deadlines, progress, and communication. That’s definitely something we’ll look into implementing here at Imageco to streamline workflow and enhance collaboration.
What’s one thing Cartonlab does that really impressed you?
Becca: As a designer, I was really impressed by how well Cartonlab knows their brand and understands their audience. They’re currently launching new branding that perfectly reflects their identity: sustainable, playful, experimental, and focused on quality design. It’s such a strong example of brand consistency and creative confidence, and it really reminded me of how important it is to live and breathe your brand values through every project.
How did the Cartonlab team welcome you, and what was it like working alongside them?
Becca: The Cartonlab team welcomed me so warmly from the moment I arrived. They even had a personalised welcome sign and a welcome pack waiting for me, such a thoughtful touch and something I’d love to introduce for interns and work experience placements at Imageco. One of the most surreal moments was scrolling Pinterest for VM inspiration, spotting Cartonlab’s amazing work, and realising that the photo was of the very office I was sitting in! It was definitely a pinch-me moment.
Were there any challenges along the way?
Becca: The only minor challenge was my limited Spanish! But Nacho, the co-founder, made me feel truly welcome, and Rocío, my ‘buddy’, helped me settle in and feel completely at home throughout the trip. The kindness and openness of the team really made a lasting impression on me.
Did you get to experience any of Spain outside of work?
Becca: Absolutely! After work each day, I made sure to explore the stunning city of Murcia. A real highlight was visiting Carlos Jiménez Cenamor’s studio with Nacho — it was such an inspiring experience. I was even gifted a beautiful plate, which somehow survived the Ryanair flight! I also visited Cabo de Palos and stayed at the Subup Hostel, which I’ll definitely return to. The whole experience reminded me how creativity can be found everywhere, in culture, architecture, and even in the smallest details.
If you had to sum up your week in three words, what would they be?
Becca: Inspiring, empowering, memorable.
How will this experience influence the way you work at Imageco?
Becca: I’m so grateful for the experience — it’s boosted my confidence and given me a fresh perspective. As a designer, it’s so important to get out into the world, see new things, and talk to other people in the print industry. Seeing how Cartonlab blends creativity, organisation, and thoughtful touches has given me new ideas to improve workflow, communication, and the overall experience for clients and visitors at Imageco.
A Creative Exchange that Strengthens the Print Industry
Becca’s experience highlights what makes the print industry such a dynamic and collaborative space, one where innovation thrives when ideas are shared across borders. By connecting with other like-minded studios, we’re able to exchange insights, learn from different approaches, and continue pushing the boundaries of what sustainable print can achieve.
At Imageco, we’re proud to champion this kind of professional development. Encouraging our team to step outside their comfort zone and experience how others approach design and production fuels the creativity that drives our projects forward. Whether it’s experimenting with new materials like Xanita board, refining our in-house CAD processes, or learning how other studios integrate sustainability into their culture, every opportunity to learn helps us grow stronger together.
We can’t wait to see how Becca’s inspiration shapes future Imageco projects, and we’re already looking forward to the next opportunity to learn from our peers across the print industry.
