James Patmore

"Coming from a mixed cultural background and being born in London, England. I have always been exposed to cultures, traditions and people from all over the world. I believe that these experiences subliminally feed a designer’s/artist’s creativity and directly influences their work. By forming James Patmore Studio I want to produce a collection of objects as well as visual works that reflect this cultural hub that we have in London. Building on the experience I have gained from working at studios such as Tom Dixon and Rolf Sachs I feel that creating, producing and manufacturing objects that have been envisaged locally, not only celebrates British manufacturing but also Britain’s cultural diversity."

Website - jamespatmore.com

If they were to make a toy action figure of you, what would your accessory be?
A retractable grappling hook, I love climbing.

To what degree have you actually controlled the course your design life has taken?
I have a desire to learn as much as I can whilst grasping for new life experiences. Consciously positioning myself in roles that challenge me as a designer, leader and colleague. So when the time comes, the transition of building my own studio can be a well informed one.

What’s something you know you do differently than most people?
I tend to do most of my idea development through sketching and model making. I do have a habit of listening to 90's Hip-hop and RnB whilst CAD'ing up ideas in SolidWorks. I find it allows me to focus on the process, so I can get it done quickly and out of the way.

What product or event inspired you to be a designer?
Growing up with creative parents I've been drawing and building things from scrap wood since I was 3. But the realisation that it could be a profession came whist talking with my tutors after my final Uni crit, they said "Why not?".

If you could go back in time and become the designer of any existing item, what would you choose?
Jean Prouvé's Potence Wall Lamp, it's simplicity and elegance in its function is something I try to convey in my own work.