Design is certainly having a moment — you chose an excellent time to launch your collection. People are sort of thinking about the design world how they’ve always thought of fashion, the parties, the openings, the ones to watch. How do you see the New York design world-changing, for better or for worse?
I believe that the New York design scene is going through a Renaissance post-covid. Not only design actually — I think for once, after being in the shadows for many years, both New York design week and New York fashion week are making a dent in the global scene. And I think people are turning their heads away from just looking at Europe.
It's really exciting because I think New York has been frowned upon at times for being too campy and loud and colorful. And now I think that we’re actually moving towards that kind of feeling in all sectors of design and that is New York’s DNA. It's in my DNA, it's in my furniture.
I’m sure it’s been a long road to where you are today, in terms of a creative process. How have you grown as a designer?
Logistics, materials, procedures — that’s the obvious one. Beyond that, the most growth that I’ve felt is growth in my confidence, not only in my taste but my instincts and gut feeling with design. I feel like there are less obstacles with designing now because I feel very happy with my first collection, with my collection and the details of that but also with how I presented it, down to getting sponsors for the event. Doing that all on my own is something I’m really proud of and has elevated my confidence levels.
How do you want to keep growing?
I want to force myself to explore other materials - other textures and colors and patterns. My first pieces were primarily 3D printed and lumber-based, which was an obvious material. I want to branch out to materials and forms I’m unfamiliar with, like glass or a sofa.
So that’s the next challenge: stepping away from the monochromatic look and the single materials I used in my first collection and diversifying my design.
I have a few designs in my pocket that I really want to produce. One is this idea for a round coffee table, like a donut block. There will be six cutouts around the side, like little caves where you can put your feet. Like assigned seating. I'm trying to find a way to make that a reality.
Something like that would be a part of my next design week show, if I have the money by then. But right now, I’m really just selling my current pieces and working on a few commissions, like a vessel I’m working on for a show. I'm working on a dining chair as well. Yeah. But it all comes down to money and time.