We cycled over to Alexandra’s studio by the canal to ask a few questions before her opening night at Unit.d. Quickfire only, instinctive answers encouraged. Here’s what she had to say.
What does an idea need in order to grow?
A combination of two things coming together. An association of ideas, so that two things that can merge into one.
What does an ideal working day look like?
When I don't procrastinate. When I just trust the original idea.
What is going right with design?
Big brands are starting to work with young designers again. This was not the case for a long time. They need to do that more because otherwise it's always the same people.
What would you like to see change?
The value put on design work. It's really not a sustainable job at the moment. You have to work in so many different ways to get paid enough, so it’s difficult for younger designers. If you go somewhere like Denmark, people get paid properly to work.
Is the UK worse than elsewhere?
Maybe. France might be the same. But if you go to Denmark, Switzerland, Finland, countries with a big history in design, they value it properly.
Do we need new things?
If we were never to make anything new, we could never evolve. In the same way whatever we're doing is a reflection of us as humans. But we can think more about how and why you make them, that's for sure.
Which everyday object is most undervalued?
The pen. It's the way to start ideas. Writing or drawing, a lot of things happen from the pen.
What's an everyday object that you would prefer not to live without?
My tool drawer. Specifically, a right-angle ruler.
If you weren't a designer, what would you be?
A gardener. My parents are farmers, so it's a little bit to do with where I come from. I'm not excellent at it, but I just like doing things. Whatever it is, I need to use my hands.
Who are your creative heroes?
In design, it's Castiglioni, Konstantin Grcic and Jasper Morrison.
But of all the designers, Jasper is the one that I have the most things of. His objects are really easy to live with. Plates, cutlery for Muji, things that you can actually go and buy, and use and own.
