We asked Michael Marriott some quick-fire questions, and we stipulated that he must answer instinctively and with short answers only. Here's what he had to say.
What does an ideal working day look like?
Beautiful.
What is the one thing that every home needs?
A good kettle. (Sori Yanagi’s is the obvious choice)
What’s one thing every workspace needs?
A good kettle. (Sori Yanagi’s is the obvious choice)
What’s one object you could not live without?
A good kettle. (Sori Yanagi’s is the obvious choice)
What can you see from your window?
Rain.
What are we getting right at the moment?
Unit.d.
Where do you seek inspiration?
Life.
Where do you go to reflect?
On my bike.
Who are your heroes? (three maximum)
Italians only then;
Achille Castiglioni, Enzo Mari, Vico Magistretti.
What does good design mean to you now?
Not too much design, just some care.
What is the most important thing you have learnt?
To ride a bike.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
Be curious / Be careful.
What is an understated object which you think needs more attention?
I think it’s easier to think of objects that need less attention (or less design).
What does an everyday object mean to you?
Something that works well, instinctively while sitting quietly and comfortably in its environment.