We are thrilled to have chatted with Tom Fereday, the Sydney furniture and product designer who has won numerous design awards and can name drop collaborations with Louis Vuitton, Alessi, Stellarworks and Herman Miller.

Where does your inspiration come from?

From a combination of things – from how products are made, natural materials and manufacturing processes and real world problems, how people use objects today.

How would you describe your style? How did it develop?

I am fascinated by the tension that lies between natural materials and contemporary design and manufacture. I began my studio on the principle of honest design to develop work that celebrates the materials and manufacture behind furniture and objects, guiding considered and thoughtful design outcomes that explore the notion of refined utility.

Two Design Lovers Tom Fereday

What do you love most about your job?

I think the entire process of product development is quite addictive. There are a number of challenging steps to resolving a finished product but when it works it can be extremely rewarding to see the final product in use.

What’s your favourite piece that you’ve designed/created?

I’m still trying to develop it!

What are some of the biggest mistakes people make when buying furniture?

I think it’s important to make mistakes as this is how you find out ultimately what you like and what works but I would say one of the biggest issues would be buying furniture that you are not strongly compelled to want.

You have collaborated with some amazing brands, including Louis Vuitton, Alessi and Stellarworks. Which collaboration have you enjoyed most?

Probably most enjoyable has been the specific crafts people and local makers I have worked with to realise many of my pieces. So much of my work and its refinement is down to the very talented makers I collaborate with.

You have won so many awards. Does one stand out for you?

Probably one that stands out was the Space + Moooi design residency where I spent three months living in Holland working with Moooi. It was an incredible experience and one that I will never forget.

What are your two favourite pieces on Two Design Lovers at the moment?

The Louis Poulsen Snowball pendant and the Alvar Aalto Paimio armchairs!

Shop Tom Fereday’s selection

Two Design Lovers Louis Poulsen Snowball Pendant
Two Design Lovers Aalto armchair 41 Paimio white

Get to know more about Tom Fereday at 

Website: tomfereday.com

Instagram: @tom_fereday

Images have been printed with the permission of Tom Fereday.

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