Almu Tesorero named in Mix 30 under 30 2025 

Almu Tesorero has been named as one of Mix Interiors’ 30 Under 30, celebrating emerging talent in the workplace design industry. A one of our Technical Designers, Almu has quickly made her mark, bringing clarity, determination, and an ability to spot the details that make buildings come together. 

Her background in architecture gave her a foundation in complex design phases, but she’s also embraced the fast pace of design and build. From tackling the technical challenges at Work.Life Clerkenwell Green to coordinating complex site conditions with confidence, Almu has proven herself as a trusted voice across teams and contractors. 

We caught up with her to hear what drives her, how she sees technical design evolving, and what it means to be named in this year’s 30 Under 30. 

What does being named 30 Under 30 mean to you?

I never imagined I’d be named as a technical designer. Being recognised was such a great surprise. It makes me proud of the work I’m doing and motivates me to keep learning and progressing. 

What do people often overlook about your role as a technical designer?

The spotlight usually goes to interior designers because they pick the finishes, colours and make things look pretty. Technical designers are often seen as the ones backstage, dealing with “boring” details. But the truth is, the vision can only exist once we make it buildable. When those details are skipped, you get big problems later down the line. Our role makes sure everything actually comes to life. 

How would you explain your job to someone outside the industry?

I’d say my job is making the vision real. A design might look great on paper or in visuals, but in practice, it might not actually work. We look at the details, solve problems quickly, and find creative solutions on the spot. It’s a lot of problem-solving under pressure. 

What’s your favourite part of the process?

Definitely seeing the progress on site. On the Clerkenwell Green project, the building has already been through an incredible transformation. We’re not even finished yet, but it’s unrecognisable compared to where it started. Sometimes I look at it and think, “wow, I can’t believe the difference!” 

Can you share a challenge you’ve solved that made a difference?

On one project, we had fire curtains where the hood was going to be exposed. I found a way to raise the hood above the ceiling so it could be hidden. It sounds like a small detail, but visually it completely changed the space. 

What’s one detail you’re proud of recently?

When we realised the AV wall at Hob House wouldn’t reach the soffit because of hidden pipes. The boardroom was an important room for the client, so there was no room for compromise. I proposed building a bulkhead with access hatches, a simple adjustment on the surface, but one that protected the integrity of the design and kept the room exactly as we’d presented it to the client. 

What has been your biggest learning curve so far?

Learning to speak up. Being one of the youngest in the room, it can feel intimidating to say, “that’s wrong.” But I’ve realised I need to have the confidence to challenge things when they don’t look right. 

What moment makes you think “this is why I love what I do”?

Definitely not cycling in the rain to the site this morning! But honestly, it’s when I see the end result. All the stress fades away, and you’re left with something that looks perfectly aligned, like it was always meant to be there. That’s the best feeling. 

How do you see technical design evolving with tools like AI?

I think AI could help with programmes like Revit in the future, maybe supporting coordination. But the on-site element, checking progress, solving problems in real time, and coordinating with contractors, still needs a technical designer. I don’t see AI replacing that part of the role. 

Why did you choose technical design over traditional architecture?

I studied architecture up to Part 2, but I didn’t want to do Part 3 just for the title of “architect.” In traditional architecture, I was on one project for years before it even finished. I wanted something faster paced, more active, where I could be on site, talking to people, and seeing progress. Technical design gave me that. 

Where do you find inspiration outside of work?

My sausage dog. He’s just so cute, and I love bringing him into the office!