Duncan Meerding is a furniture and lighting designer with his own self-named firm and design studio, based in Hobart, Tasmania. Duncan mainly works with timber, creating everyday pieces for modern lifestyles and everyday living, echoing organic beauty and nature. Duncan is also extremely environmentally conscious and sustainability is a key issue with his work. In fact, many of his designs and products actually highlight the intrinsic relationship we have with nature. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Duncan Meerding.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
Much of my Furniture and Lighting Design concentrates on over all form rather than intense detailing, with a particular interest in how light performs through and around objects.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
A model or full size mock up is important in developing a design for me, creating a sense of scale and 3 dimensionality. I think the tactile element when designing is very important for 3d objects.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I admire a lot of the creative people I have worked with. One of the projects I admire a lot is Kanthari and all the people associated with it. The founders Sabriye Tenberken and Paul Kronenberg had immense creative vision when they founded the institute to foster creative positive change in the world today. Not just through the physical building in Kerala, but the impacts that it is having around the world.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
One of the things which I enjoy the most is spending time in the wilderness, either relaxing or doing activities, especially rock climbing with friends.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I think everyone’s journey in operating creative practises is unique and a lot is learnt along the way. I think one thing to hold in importance is to be genuine to others and yourself; don’t forget why you got involved in the creative sector to begin with.
