Interview with Phebos Xenakis

Phebos Xenakis ("PX") interviewed on Monday, 19 March.

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

PX : As you can tell by my age I haven't really been as long in the industry of design as others.For me it all began 4 years ago when I started my Bachelor in design at the University of Howest.Through the years I noticed that furniture design was one of the disciplines I adored the most in the world of design.

How did you become a designer?

PX : During high school I was studying architecture. It was an interesting study for me and it still is to this day but what architecture was lacking for me was a diversity in designing, especially since I lived in Belgium and allot of the architectural projects here are renovations instead of new constructions. One of my teachers had told be about design and the variety in projects and products it can offer. This was what intrigued me the most and eventually made me change directions.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

PX : I usually never start of by focusing on a target audience or a shape but rather focus on a new technique, material or problem that I find interesting. From that point on I start analyzing the possibilities and what this technique, material or problem can offer. I don't like casual designs and try to avoid them, but that's just my own opinion. If possible I will always try and create something new or experimental.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

PX : I think as most people in the creative sector I feel a sense of accomplishment and euphoria seeing a project develop from nothing into something.

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

PX : Being born and raised in Crete, Greece and later on moving to Belgium I had the chance to shape my creativity through experiencing two different cultures. This is what made me who I am today.

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

PX : I think as seeing I'm only 23 myself there isn't much advice I can give yet, I'm still learning new things myself, no shame in being honest here.There isn't much advice I can give since I still have a long way to go myself and I certainly don't want to spread pretentious advice.

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

PX : I wouldn't say I'm a successful designer, as I've sad in my previous statement, I still have a long way to go.

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

PX : For me that is a difficult question as I think it's also kind of subjective matter. You can have a design that 2 people find amazing whilst 2 others may find it ridiculous.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

PX : When having designed a piece or an object it is crucial for me to lay my mind of it for a day. If I still like the design the next day then this is a sign for me that I am happy with the current status of the design and can further develop it.

What is your biggest design work?

PX : My most successful design as of yet is without a doubt the Trapesi bistro table. It was designed as a solution for a problem I saw many people struggling with, including myself.

Who is your favourite designer?

PX : I have many.To some up a few:Oki SatoAlain GillesPhilippe NigroPhilippe Starck

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

PX : Last year I wasn't able to attend the A' Design Award, but hopefully this year I will be able to attend.

Phebos Xenakis Profile