Now in its eleventh year, Heal’s Discovers provides a unique showcase to exciting, emerging design talent. This year’s bumper crop is no exception with a host of unique designs to suit every aspect of the home.
While visitors to Heal’s will have seen the designs on display, we thought it would be a good idea to get to know the creatives behind each entry. For the first in our series of catch-ups, we sat down with the man behind the Span furniture range, Jonathan Lane Smith, to talk about his exclusive collection for Heal’s Discovers as well as his journey from sculptor to designer.
How would you describe your style of design?
My approach is different for each project, but I tend to combine simple geometry with pared back forms all the while responding to the nature of the material being used.
What was the catalyst for your career in design?
I originally started out training in sculpture but changed to product and furniture design as it was a better fit for me. The main thing that drove me to move into furniture was working for a family in West Australia, I was making vast tables from wood used to support the mines and I just loved the process.
How would you describe a typical working day?
I work in a studio in Holloway, North London so my day usually starts there. Every day is different, but mainly consists of talking to suppliers and clients, doing drawings, developing new work with prototyping and models, making sure orders are running smoothly, trying to get new orders and of course admin!
What was the inspiration for your first collection for Heal’s?
The Span originates from a private commission, which was based on a frame from a regency period double pedestal table. From there the design evolved and has been adapted further to suit modern production methods and functionality. This latest design reinterprets the traditional look of a regency table into a light, angular form.
The oak and walnut versions have a natural, classic feel to them. A scorched ash version was also selected to offer something that would stand out more. The glass top versions were used to really make a feature out of the table frame.
How important do think projects such as Heal’s Discovers are to showcasing new talent?
Very. Any opportunities like Heals Discovers are a really great way of getting work out there, so it’s great to see so many designers using it as a springboard to a career in the creative industries.
Jonathan’s modern furniture range is available in store at Tottenham Court Road or online.