Vicki Leach is the Design Manager at Deadgood Ltd, a furniture design firm creating soft seating and lighting from Newcastle upon Tyne. Vicki loves to bring ideas to life, and is particularly excited when working with new samples and materials. The Deadgood vision is to develop the brand into a leading design brand, recognised for developing cutting edge collections. They are already renowned within the industry, and have built a reputation for breaking the status quo. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Vicki Leach.
Image Credit: 1) David Irwin 2) Sue Pryke 3) Flynn Talbot 4) Terence Woodgate 5) Philippe Malouin
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My designs are generally a playful take on quite simple and functional objects which aim to make a connection with the user and last a lifetime.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
Sometimes it begins with a problem, material process, client request or a gap in the market, so each time it can be different. An open discussion generally sets things off!
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I would have to say the Deadgood founders Dan Ziglam and Elliot Brook, who started the company as jobless graduates and now support staff and local makers all over the country because of their ambition and tenacity. Their reach has been astounding and I'm proud to be a part of that.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I've started using Pinterest recently, grouping together things that inspire me from architecture to branding and art. This ensures that I never forget the things that catch my eye!
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 started with internships then made my way up with a willingness to get stuck in and learn. My knowledge from production, sales, marketing and admin really helps to form better design. Try to adapt from any criticism and don't make the same mistakes twice!
