The studio grew rapidly, and a division of roles and formal structure was soon needed. In the begin- ning, despite my poor maths skills, I was respon- sible for our finances. As our set-up became more professional, SHL was the first design studio to have a professional board of directors and in time both a CEO and a CFO. At that time I was the creative director, which included responsibility for the design department. What is your design process at Studio Hammer? At Studio Hammer I have chosen to work on pro- duct development and smaller-scale projects. Large projects require a variety of skills and numerous people. In addition, sustainable and climate-smart wor- king is a clear objective. It’s an indisputable fact that the climate issue is the most pressing problem we face, and I feel obliged to do my bit. Some of my design work therefore involves seeking out information on the most sustainable means of designing and producing. A designer is both a planner and a problem- solver. By problem-solver I mean when someone has a need for something to be different, and this results in a design task. The process from need to solution is what’s exciting. Accomplishing something that benefits someone. I design not only for its own sake, but also to create positive change. What inspires you? When you need inspiration, it’s generally for an assignment. Someone has defined a framework within which ideas are required, and you seek knowledge and solutions relating to the specific project. Consequently, inspiration is perhaps more about having a toolbox of openness and curiosity, so that you are receptive to new approaches and new ideas. I keep up to date with what’s happening in the design world. I get daily news updates from digital sources like Designboom and Dezeen and partici- pate in events like Dutch Design Week and Salone del Mobile in Milan. There is also plenty of inspiration to be found in nature. Mathematics crops up again here. A snowflake or a pine cone is made up of fractals. The Golden Ratio is a mathematical rule. You can learn or draw inspiration from the fact that the shape is formed systematically. What characterises good lighting design? When we talk about light and try to understand good light, you can go back to nature again. Day- light is perhaps the very best, most honest and communicative light there is. The glow from a bonfire has the ability to bring people together and create a sense of community. Light can make a huge difference, when used strategically or for setting a scene. Flat, symmetrical light can be 88
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