Yanko Design

Podcast Episode 4

Long Tran — Mon, 03 May 2010 07:10:21 +0000

We chat up James Owen of James Owen Design and discuss everything from his amazing Leo Cat Scratching Post, the Yakima Quickback, to the ins and outs of being an industrial designer. He offers some amazing insight on what it’s really like to work for big companies and why going on his own turned out to be one of the best things he ever did.

Episode 4: James Owen

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Leo cat scratching post

Yakima Quickback

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(Podcast Episode 4 was originally posted on Yanko Design)

Podcast Episode 3

Long Tran — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:56:18 +0000

Interview with REthink development about Cherokee Studios, an LEED Platinum certified live/work building in Los Angeles, CA. Everything from water filtration, energy efficiency, LED lighting, right down to the zero VOC free paints and finishes makes Cherokee Studios one of the “greenest” buildings in California.

I originally wrote about them this past June and was so excited about the building (soon to open this September), I scored an interview with the principals of REthink Development, Greg Reitz and Steve Edwards. A ridiculous amount of work goes into building anything in California with its strict building codes but going for the lust worthy LEED Platinum certification takes it to another level. REthink specializes in this kind of work so these guys are pros.

If you’re interested in architecture and the nitty gritty behind buildings like Cherokee Studios, check out this podcast. I have to apologize for the audio quality. Skype was being a little testy. Thanks so much to Greg and Steve of REthink and Aunny and Haily of Secret Agent PR for hooking this up. I can’t wait to see the building and Greg, Steve if you’re reading this. I still want to live there – for freeeeeeee.

Episode 3: REthink for Cherokee Studios

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Podcast Episode 2

Long Tran — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 07:18:23 +0000

Apologies for the long delay in getting episode 2 up but it’s finally here. I caught up with Philippe Nigro at the start of ICFF last month and chatted about his latest furniture collection called Confluences manufactured by Ligne Roset. At first glance it may look like a random exercise in seating design but Philippe’s intention was seating for real people and real people come in all different shapes, sizes, and sit different ways. The question then became how do you design for the many and make it all flow together – confluences.

Episode 2: Philippe Nigro Interview

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Podcast Episode 1

Long Tran — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 07:40:40 +0000

Our first podcast so be kind, rewind, play again. There’s a lot of good stuff in there, namely an interview with designer and engineer Mark Sanders. He’s the brains behind many products which by the way have sold in the tens of millions. Yep, you heard right. His latest bike, the IF Mode dominated the conversation and with good reason too. It’s the most gorgeous folding bike out there and an IF Gold winner. Hit the jump for the podcast and sketches! We love sketches!

I’m not usually easy enamored by designers but I’ll admit, I was very nervous chatting with Mr. Sanders. Maybe it’s the sheer brilliance or maybe it’s realizing this guy not only designs beautiful objects, but he’s an engineer at heart. That’s very rare, especially among the new crop of up-and-coming designers.

People in Asia are probably well aware of his folding cutting boards and One Touch can opener but its the bikes – the bikes that garner so much attention. Now in its 21st edition, the original folding Strida bike is still selling strong. The unique triangular a-frame bike was an unorthodox approach to what a bike was supposed to look like. The proportions seemed off but the ingenious design lets your ride sitting upright (as you should) and utilizes less energy thanks to the smaller wheels.

Fast forward 21 years later and we have the IF Gold awarding winning IF Mode, a gorgeous exercise in consumer design. Yes it folds but it doesn’t look like a toy. It doesn’t look odd and is quite sexy with the perforated leather wrapped handle bars and seat. Perhaps the most innovative feature is the simple latch system that enables the front wheel to fold parallel next to the rear wheel, essentially turning into a monocycle. Talk about easy transport!

As a designer, I’m always fascinated by what inspires and motivates other designers. Mark isn’t shy about discussing his past. He loves what he does and more importantly hasn’t forgotten why he became a designer – to make the world a better place. He even has some sage words for those who are just beginning their design career. It’s a daunting path but hold steadfast and stay true – the message is common but cliche holds truth. Thank you Mark!

Episode 1: Mark Sanders Interview

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IF Mode Bike production model

IF Mode BIke sketches