Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your brand?

 

I studied Architecture at Oxford Brookes University, realising a childhood dream. However, it was during these 3 years that I realised I needed a more practical career. Following my graduation, I worked in the Design Technology department at a High School and College. For the next 7 years, I worked a rewarding job that gave me a great introduction to a wide range of subjects and techniques, from woodworking to set-design, from printmaking to embroidery.

 

Although I enjoyed the job, I got asked to go to South America with my best mate, so in July 2019 I quit my job and took off! I returned to the UK with a new lust for life and made the leap to starting up my own business. Since then I’ve worked hard to develop a sustainable brand that is inspired by my love of the outdoors, currently focusing around the organic form of the hexagon.

 

 

What gave you the courage to start up your own business and what advice would you give to anyone thinking about doing the same?

 

It sounds cliché, but after spending time in South America, my perspective on life shifted and I realised that I wanted to spend as much time as possible doing the things I love. This gave me the drive to set up on my own. Working long days and late into the night isn’t a problem when you love what you're doing!

 

The best advice I could give is to speak to others and ask for as much advice as possible. There are so many useful resources and support networks out there, with many of them having been in the same situation as you and are always more than glad to help!

 

 

What process do you go through when creating new pieces?

 

My focus is to try to make the form of a product just as important as the function. I take my inspirations, and then adapt the product to take on these natural formations. However, it’s always important that my products still work well and are practical.

 

 

Where do you look for inspiration?

 

In short, from nature. I’ve always loved organic forms, initially inspired by my love of Antoni Gaudi’s work discovered through school trips to Barcelona. He was the master of finding tiny perfections in nature and turning them into stunning works of art and architecture.

 

 

What are your future plans for developing your business?

 

I’d like to expand my product range, discovering different ways to bring natural forms into people’s interiors.

​

 

A little story or an anecdote you would like to share?

 

I still have the small cereal box model that started this whole process over 6 years ago. My brother wanted a new wine rack, so over dinner one night we came up with the initial concept using an old cereal packet and some matchsticks. I keep it on my desk not only as a reminder of how far I’ve come but also the importance of model making!

​

 

Your favourite quote?

​

“Creativity is contagious, pass it on.”

I’ve tried to embrace this throughout my career, firstly inspiring students with my passion for good design through my years at the school and now through my own design work. I hope that my work will inspire people to find a passion for their own interiors and to treat themselves and others to unique pieces that are handmade by dedicated makers with blood, sweat and tears!

​

​

Based In: Preston, Lancashire, England 

Product Range: Bespoke Eco-Friendly Modular Furniture 

Website: bobbridgesdesigns.co.uk

Instagram: @bobbridgesdesigns

​

​

​