The final countdown commences as we prepare for the Designer’s Residency Show this Thursday April 6th, 6-9PM unveiling the debut collections of our first class of residents. We ask that you join us as the design world embraces these three exquisitely talented, young designers launching their independent studios: Marmar Studio and Alexis & Ginger. We sat down with Ginger Gordon, Alexis Tingey, and Ingemar Hagen-Keith for a quick download ahead of the big night.
ALEXIS & GINGER
Ginger and Alexis met in grad school at RISD and knew immediately that they wanted to work together; they each have a design process heavily predicated on research.
What was the design process like for the Ode collection?
A&G: We began by going to the NYPL picture stacks and sifting through the endless trove of folders filled with images of lace, gloves, architectural details, greek urns, and portraiture from every era. We find inspiration in the smallest details and the largest forms. Lines, textures, and materials are collaged, like the images we pull, as new forms slowly begin to reveal themselves.
What was your vision for this collection/your studio?
A&G: We were interested in creating objects embedded with moments of the past, sharing stories through abstraction and composition of materials. Each piece is a keepsake, an ode to the silhouettes of architecture and the under-celebrated details of tapestry.
What are your favorite materials to work with?
A&G: The best part about making furniture is that you are never required to stick to one medium. Materials and their different capabilities and qualities draw us to push our designs and to think of new ways to incorporate them. Light and shadow, heavy contrast, is something we are always looking to capture in our work. By mixing materials we are able to create this weighted balance.
MARMAR STUDIO
Ingemar, how would you describe your personal and design style?
I: In one word, Fruity.
What were your influences for Pet Collection?
I: The design process focused so much on the immediacy of attraction to an object. I wanted to follow my instincts and see the collection as what made meaning of those instincts, rather than using a framework to build something from. I think some of my greatest influences are the animals in my life, both in the joy they bring me and their beautiful forms and expressions.
Describe the moment this collection came into focus for you.
I: Quite honestly, when I finished the Clog Lounger. It was the piece I began with and the last piece I completed. Of all the pieces, it had the most iterations, and I think it is the product of everything I have learned making this collection.