Mike Constable, managing director of JAB Anstoetz UK talks to us about his busy schedule for 2013

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For more information about the International Product Design Awards 2013 please contact – productawards@design-et-al.co.uk

JAB Anstoetz were sponsors of the International Design & Architecture Awards 2012 and they won in the Fabric category in 2012 and 2011 with a Chivasso collaboration.
What direction do you feel design is moving towards in general terms?
I feel design is moving in a very positive direction. London is now the international hub of design and we are seeing some talented and innovative designers emerge which is very exciting.
What are the key influencing elements at present?
Colour is a huge influence at the moment and we are seeing it being used in an interesting and modern way. I also feel geometric design is very relevant. We have recently worked with New York City designer Richard Anuszkiewicz who has just designed a range of ‘OpArt’ rugs part of our new Characters collection, which are already being very well received.
What sort of projects are you working on at the moment?
2013 is a very exciting year as we have a range of projects we are working on, including high-end hotels, beautiful yachts and some of the most elegant residential properties in the country.
Your work is so diverse – how do you manage to hold down a career and a life?
Work/life balance is one of the hardest things to achieve. I strongly believe that if life goes out of balance so does work, so I am sure to always stay keep fit, stay active and always make time for family and friends.
Name 5 key essentials for 2013 and beyond.
. Stay positive
. Work hard
. Keep fit
. Help others
. Love life
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Simple things done well can be the most beautiful in my eyes.
How important do you feel Design Awards are as recognition of designers talents and achievements?
The design awards are such an important part of celebrating our work and achievements. At JAB we are always supportive of industry awards and proud to be recognised and involved.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To continue to grow our business at JAB, especially our new hand-made rug collection Characters, which is our big focus for the year.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself

The car you drive?
BMW320M Sport for work, Porsche Boxster for outside work and a BMWS1000RR motorbike for play
Your favourite place to travel to in the world?
The Mediterranean coast in Turkey. The people are so friendly, the food is fabulous and it has a wonderful history.
Your favourite hotel/ restaurant/ bar?
Favourite hotel – Barnsley House in Cirencester, Favourite restaurant – Tom Aikens in Chelsea, Favourite bar – Windows bar in the London Hilton on Park Lane for its fabulous view
The place that gives you the most energy?
It normally involves high speed
And the place that enables you to totally relax?
Home
Your favourite food and drink?
I was brought up in the Far East so anything spicy! My favourite drink is a cup of tea, pint of London Pride or a refreshing mojito with great company.
Anything else interesting?
I play the bass guitar and I follow Harlequins Rugby Club

 

To view the shortlists of the International Awards please visit –  www.design-et-al.co.uk

To view the collections from JAB Anstoetz please visit – http://www.jab-uk.co.uk/