Jaime Hayon at the Interior Design Show
I recently had the opportunity to attend a talk by one of today’s global design influencers, Jaime Hayon, at this year’s Interior Design Show. A very engaging speaker, he definitely demonstrated a passion for his craft, and was able to show how an unclear path has led him to interesting design discoveries.
As a creative, I was struck by how he entered into the world of design with no clear intentions, other than to create, and to have fun. Humble beginnings turned into full-blown interior design in due time. He has run the gamut from product design to industrial design to interior design, with some interesting stops along the way. He now balances life in a Spanish coastal town with international design projects, an idyllic life.
The core principles of each of Jaime’s designs seems to be INSPIRATION, FUN, FUNCTIONALITY and INGENUITY. He takes inspiration from specific objects, seemingly unrelated to the task at hand. This inspiration gives each piece a playfulness and each form a raison d’être.
a shapely vanity
Function is high on Jaime’s list. He described in detail how he views chair design, arguably one of the most important furniture pieces for comfort and ergonomic function. His solutions are shapely and striking. And as always, inspired by everyday objects and re-interpreted.
the shapely lines of the Fri chair by Jaime Hayon
His installation at the Interior Design Show was somewhat perplexing to me at first. Surely, balloon animals and modern clown artists have no place at a serious show, right? When he explained his thoughts about creating a whimsical collection inspired by fauna and folklore, my whole attitude toward it changed, and I was able to reflect upon the subject matter, and his creative process. My outlook changed. And it didn’t have to do with the scene being presented – it influenced my own creative process.
Stone Age Folk installation at IDS (image courtesy of DesignBoom)
“It is important to remember that my design is made for humans – to be used by humans. I believe that design should provoke emotions. Design should make you feel good. Create happiness. ”