Welcome to another IMGW News Trend Setters Feature
Who is Gordon Guillaumier?
Gordon Guillaumier is a name you need to know in the world of design, and IMGW.News is here to introduce him to you. An architect, designer, and artist, Gordon is making waves in the design industry, and if you haven’t heard of him yet, now is the time to take note.
Hailing from the smallest EU nation, a tiny island in the Mediterranean, Gordon has transcended geographical boundaries to establish himself at the heart of European fashion and design – Milan. His educational journey took him through Malta, Switzerland, England, and Italy, culminating in a degree In industrial Design from the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Milan in 1991, followed by a Master’s degree from the Domus Academy in Milan the following year.
Gordon’s career skyrocketed with collaborations alongside renowned designers such as Rodolfo Dordoni and Enrico Astori, where he contributed to the development of new design collections. In 1999, he ventured into freelancing, which led him to founding Studio Gordon Guillaumier in Milan in 2002. This multidisciplinary design studio specialises in products, interiors, architecture, stand displays, and consulting
With a diverse portfolio spanning indoor and outdoor furniture, lighting, ceramics, hardware, carpets, tableware, and other items, Gordon has partnered with esteemed Italian and international design brands. His designs have earned numerous prestigious awards and are frequently featured in international and local design publications.
Beyond his role as a designer, Gordon has made significant contributions as an art director for leading Italian design brands and has been actively involved in the art direction of Roda’s brand since 2006. His expertise also extends to academia, where he shares his knowledge and insights as a lecturer at the faculty of Industrial Design at the Milan Politecnico and as a visiting design professor at the Abadir Design Academy in Catania.
Gordon Guillaumier’s journey is one of passion, dedication, and innovation, and he continues to make his mark on the world of design. Keep an eye on this space for more updates on his inspiring work
At Studio Gordon Guillaumier, a passionate and professional team of architects and designers work alongside Gordon to bring his ideas and vision to life. Their approach emphasises personalised, direct engagement with clients, allowing for flexibility and tailored solutions to design challenges.
Salone del Mobile 2017, Milan
The design evolution of Gordon Guillaumier
1. Can you tell us a bit about your upbringing and how it influenced your journey into the world of design?
I was lucky to born into a family of Maltese entrepreneurs who were involved in the manufacturing industry. My paternal grandfather ran a factory which manufactured furniture and so occasionally he would frequent the Milan Fiera Campionaria way back in the 40’s to get inspiration and see what the new trends were.
As a kid I used to love walking around the mirror factory which was another of my family’s activities; this gave me the opportunity to see the artisans bevel glass and observe them whilst decorating the mirrors with their skills. This is where it all started, I suppose.
Sadly I never worked in these factories since I was too young but I had developed a passion for drawing and painting which was the onset of what was to come.
My family encouraged my creative skills by allowing me to follow my instinct, so after I had studied business administration at University in the UK, I was allowed to further my studies in design. For this I had chosen Milan which was the hub of design manufacture so very much the place to be.
2. You’ve lived and studied in various countries. How have these diverse cultural experiences shaped your approach to design?
I had done part of my schooling in Malta and then Switzerland, followed by university in England and then design academies in Italy. Four different countries with very different cultures which left a huge influence on me as a young Maltese boy.
The pragmatic and disciplined approach of Swiss and British culture, combined with the vibrant creativity of Italian culture, had a profound effect on my Mediterranean origins. In its own right, my background was a cultural mix of Anglo, Italian, and Mediterranean influences.
No doubt my design approach stems from these criteria so, indirectly or directly, these have shaped my DNA and creativity, which perhaps could be considered unique in terms of my personality and background.
3. Milan is renowned as a hub for design and creativity. What drew you to Milan, and how has the city influenced your work?
Milan is an incredible hub for creativity in design, fashion, architecture, and art… always one step ahead of other Italian cities thanks to its extraordinary capacity to renovate and look ahead.
A unique metropolis, the most ‘un-Italian’ city thanks to its modernist cultural attitude which is a far cry from most Italian cities that tend to be a cliché of the past.
I chose Milan by sheer chance; one of my best mates from school in Switzerland, who was Milanese, invited me to visit him way back in 1988.
It was during that stay that I discovered the city which, together with his encouragement, to reconsider my choice to study design at London’s Royal College of Art, I decided to change my plans and moved here that same year.
Milan has had an enormous influence on my personality and as a consequence, on my work.
Of course my academic formation put me in contact with Andrea Branzi, Aldo Cibic, Pierre Restany and Jasper Morrison to name a few of my professors.
Moreover the lifestyle, culture and coming in close contact with Italian design brands that had their showrooms down town and factories in the area, meant I was totally surrounded with this design culture.
It was during my early years in Milan, that I first attended the Milano Salone del Mobile, which was just a small event compared to the fair today, yet already an important design manifestation.
4. Love often inspires creativity. Has love played a role in influencing any of your designs or projects?
There are several factors that determine the complexity of a creative process, which can be anything from an art exhibition, an accidental encounter with a person, a great musical concert or even a positive state of mind which often helps to stimulates ideas.
Love is one of those positive states of mind, which has influenced several ideas and designs along my way.
However love could also be a source of distraction to a design process which requires much discipline and concentration so not necessarily always conducive to creativity!
5. What key design influences role model(s) or philosophies consistently inform your work?
My skills as a designer are a form of expressing my inner self and being true to my own vision to make projects that improve people’s way of living; very simple creative statements with strong values that may resist the test of time.
6. As an established designer, what trends do you see emerging in the design world, and how do you incorporate them into your projects while maintaining your unique style?
I’m not into mainstream, especially when it comes to trends. I am however sensitive to values and ethics of consumption / production which may improve my design thinking and sustainability has become a priority which anticipates your next question on politics and social issues in relation to design.
7. Design is often intertwined with politics and societal issues. How do you see design contributing to or reflecting upon political and social dynamics?
Although I’m much concerned with the social values relating to my work and creative process – hence the ethic value of sustainability – I’m not interested at all in the political aspects of design.
I like to think of design and creativity as a free process where the real value lies in its pure form of expression, very much dissimilar to a political approach, with I do not relate to.
I don’t criticise or judge my colleagues who engage in politics, but it’s not my focus.
8. Could you share some insights or tips for aspiring designers looking to establish themselves in the industry?
Quoting Thomas Emerson: “Success is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration.” I might add: “Success in design is 10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration”
9. Beyond design, what are some of your hobbies or passions that bring balance to your life?
I’m a curious person. I love traveling. I love all forms of art and music, be it contemporary or classical.
Most especially I love being in contact with nature which compensates for the time I spend in a hectic city and puts me back in balance.
10. Italy attracts millions of tourists and increasingly even thousands of investors and families that wish to make ‘il bel paese’ their home. What, in your years of experience in this country, would you consider Italy’s best-kept secret?
A country which is full of surprises. A country full of contradictions which is incessantly driven by passion and beauty… but that’s hardly a secret!
11. Lastly, what’s your favourite restaurant in Milan, and do you have a go-to holiday destination that rejuvenates your creativity? Also, could you share a quote or book that has inspired you recently?
My all time favourite haunt is the Trattoria della Pesa which is quintessentially Milanese, located between my home and office, and very much an extension of my own kitchen.
My holiday destinations are Noto in Sicily for the summer and the Monferrato hills the rest of the year, where I have my holiday homes which are necessary for introspection.
Over the years I have reread ‘Lezione Americane, sei proposte per il nuovo millennio’ by Italo Calvin… a book that I use to reset myself every so often.
Why Italy?
Italy’s Investment Migration Programme offers investors a gateway to a country renowned for its architectural grandeur, artistic masterpieces, historic significance, and vibrant culture. From the iconic cities of Milan, Rome, and Venice to the picturesque landscapes of Sicily, Italy provides an unparalleled blend of modernity and tradition. This programme not only grants investors access to the robust EU market but also immerses them in Italy’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the main benefits of the Italian golden visa is the ability to travel visa-free within Europe’s Schengen Area. Additionally, residents can enjoy living in a country known for its rich culture, attractive industries, and major global cities without the need for permanent stay. Italy also provides access to excellent medical care and education facilities, with the possibility of citizenship after ten years under specific conditions.
To qualify, applicants can choose between two main programme options. The Investor Visa Programme requires a minimum of €2 million in government bonds, €500,000 in Italian shares (or €250,000 in innovative start-ups), or a EUR 1 million donation to public projects in Italy. Alternatively, the Elective Residence Programme is suitable for those who can prove a stable annual income from abroad.
The visa is initially granted for two years and is renewable for a further three-year period, provided that the investment is maintained. Permanent residence is possible after five years, given the investor has relocated to Italy. The process of obtaining the visa typically takes 90–120 days from the date of application, with investments needing to be made within three months of entry. Notably, there is no minimum requirement for physical presence in Italy, allowing flexibility for investors.
Here are some other IMGW News features about or related to Italy:
- La Dolce Visa: Italy’s Digital Nomad Adventure doesn’t come easy
- Navigating Investment Migration: Insights into Global Property Dynamics