Robin Greene

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Robin Greene ("RG") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

RG : I originally graduated from the Royal College of Art in Menswear design. Spending a successful career at Head of Design level for various fashion brands, my passion for art and interiors started to dominate my focus over six years ago. I now work exclusively as both an art consultant for interior design firms, and a design studio creating bespoke artworks and installations for luxury interior spaces. My background in developing fashion collections, print, graphics and textile design has enabled my transfer a unique set of design skills into this new market.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

RG : From my earliest memories, I have always been inspired by creative people and design across all media platforms. I am most happy when creating something I believe is unique, beautiful, relevant, functional and lasting.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

RG : I choose to become an artist and designer.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

RG : I currently create bespoke artworks and art installations for high-end interior spaces and hotels globally. moving forward, I would like to create more artworks of this nature on a grander scale, and to start showing in galleries.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

RG : Immerse yourself not just in the design field you choose, but art and design in general. Design can become all consuming, so make sure it is for you. If it is, then fantastic.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

RG : The people around you.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

RG : For me, a really good design combines total functionality with good aesthetics. To create a product that didn't exist previously becomes a great design.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

RG : Good design can answer many questions about how we will live for the next 100 years.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

RG : A 10 piece art collection combining many materials and fabrications.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

RG : Research and finding the right people to help you.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

RG : To many to mention. Currently Neri Oxman

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

RG : A 4 x 4 meter printed and hand embroidered art installation for a private residence in London. An artwork that size hasn't been attempted before in embroidery. It was hand finished in India and took nearly a year to complete.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

RG : Never be afraid to fail. Its the quickest way to learn.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

RG : It never one person. It's always the people you work for and the people that work for you. You can learn something valuable from every person you meet.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

RG : Having spent much of my career in the fashion industry, transferring myself to interior design has been my biggest recent challenge.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

RG : When creating and developing a successful design that I haven't attempted before.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

RG : More bespoke and customised design philosophy.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

RG : Can be one month to a year.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

RG : Research the project and the client.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

RG : I always choose tools to fit the brief. CAD is always used. I have a portfolio of designers and fabricators that I go to for complex projects.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

RG : Everything. The combination of these elements is central to my work.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

RG : The best partnerships are where each person brings different skill sets to the table. I very much enjoy working with fabricators and engineers.