Ontwerperinterview
13 vragen
I have to admit, I am not a designer by profession. But I love good design, it's an art to me.
Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
I have to admit, I am not a designer by profession. But I love good design, it's an art to me.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
We started to build playgrounds more than 20 years ago. Our playgrounds are all individually designed, not one looks alike. We come from an arts background and therefore don't like to repeat ourselves. Nevertheless over the years we created our own style that is recognized throughout Europe as KuKuk.
What is "design" for you?
For me, good design means an aesthetically completely coherent form that expresses a wholeness. Product design includes a maximum of functionality. In terms of a playground, this means that in addition to the design, an optimum of play value must be included.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I like designing playgrounds because children are still able to show this glow in their eyes when they see it for the first time and are allowed to explore it.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
I prefer a design that you can't tell at first glance what it's for, but that conveys an expression of completeness to the viewer.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I love working with wood. It has this natural feel, is more or less predictable, and can be shaped into almost any form.
When do you feel the most creative?
I am most creative during or after a walk through the forest or countryside. Old, abandoned places also inspire me to be creative when there is a feeling that people have done cultural and historical work here.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
I go through a whole set of emotions. I feel excitement, joy, disappointment, frustration, relief, satisfaction, success. One way or the other.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
I feel pride, joy and relief when it is completed in my eyes. When it is completed only in the eyes of others, I feel: job done.
What makes a design successful?
For me a design is successful when it is recognizable. It could be good or bad design. But I prefer good design of course.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
The responsibility is the same as for any other human being to make this world a better place.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
Looking at art creates a wealth of inspiration in me. Visiting a museum of modern art makes creativity bubble up.
How can people contact you?
I can be reached through my company website.
