Interview with Kristof De Bock

Kristof De Bock ("KDB") interviewed on Saturday, 2 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

KDB : The first experience as an object designer is very recent. I only started 2 years ago with the first object which is a lamp. All the stuff we designed till now are on our own initiative; we haven’t accepted assignments.

How did you become a designer?

KDB : I studied Interior Architecture in ‘De Bijloke’ in Gent. After these 4 years, I started my own stand construction company. There was too much energy in me to sit down most of the day while making plans, and the combination of designing stands and constructing them was perfect at that time. With time our company had the chance to work for museums. We have been building countless temporary exhibitions mostly in Belgium and France. The difference with stand construction is that the design is mend to display the piece of art whereas a stand should be visible from far. Spring 2018 is when I decided to start as an object designer. My first object -a floor lamp named Monday- won immediately gold in the International Design Awards. So we got encouraged to continue.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

KDB : Generally the first focus is on the form. How will the object stand or serve the user better,… ; followed by the esthetics and looks. But I also think about sustainability during the whole process.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

KDB : Highs and lows. I can by childishly happy when thing go well but also nervous and frustrated if it doesn’t work out as expected.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

KDB : My history as a stand constructor. It involves designing but in a way that it is fast to build with the best result. And it also involves serious out of the box thinking to solve problems, usually with limited time and materials.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

KDB : I would like to focus 100% on creating. So it would be ideal to find a business partner who would take care of further production, marketing and sales. That would be perfect. But it is imaginable that, as the sales start to raise, we will automatically land in a mechanism of production, sales and doing everything ourselves. So probably I will be managing people in the week and designing in the weekend.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

KDB : The importance of good presentation is generally underestimated. For young designers it might be expensive. Contact a good photographer and take your time for it. Keep promoting and try to start your own community with soul like-minded people.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

KDB : Question everything, always keep your eyes open and aim for quality.

What is your day to day look like?

KDB : The only routine is the morning coffee. Each day is different. We are a small brand and I have to take care of all aspects.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

KDB : As most people these days, I check the things that interest me on the social media and magazines. But I don’t only check colleagues. I keep up with science and nature magazines as well. Both are very inspirational.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

KDB : Design is like art for useful objects. It demands knowledge, craftmanship and vision. If it gives me an aha-moment and steals me attention, it is good design for me.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

KDB : I always make several prototypes, trying out different materials, finishes and shapes. Once I’m happy with the result, I bring the final prototype to my house and start using it for a couple of months. This usually results in some extra adaptions.

What is your biggest design work?

KDB : The biggest step was the career change. So I would have to answer that our floor lamp ‘Monday’ is my biggest work. It is my first object and we won several prizes with it which was the best pat on the back to continue.

Who is your favourite designer?

KDB : Toshiyuki Kita

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

KDB : Born in Belgium; center of western Europe and the border between north and south. I work hard; mostly too hard. But the last years I start to realize that there is more in life. I really enjoy traveling, especially with my family. And I enjoy architecture, music and of course good food.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

KDB : Respect is key. If you give respect, you will receive it as well. That implies that one has to work as hard as the colleagues. But it is my experience that you end up with the best people since everyone wants to be respected. I think that I am a good leader for a small group. And I feel best in a small group. People are more open and honest then. Deliberation works better.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

KDB : First of all, a designer creates new stuff which results mostly in employment opportunities. Secondly, a good designed object makes people happy or makes life a bit better.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

KDB : Mainly award competitions create the opportunity for small designers to get noticed. Maybe they will get in touch with companies that want to sell or produce. For bigger companies it works well for marketing purposes. It certainly gives an ego boost and encourages the designer to continue.

Kristof De Bock Profile