Coinciding with his collection for Australian bathware manufacturer Caroma specified in the Royal Como luxury development, Marc Newson reflects on efficiency, colour and cross pollination in the design industry.

Marc Newson profile image photo credit: Romeo Balancout

How do you define ‘efficiency’ in the design industry, and where do you think the industry is succeeding and/or failing in this regard? 

Like in most things it is a question of precision and timing – and like in most other industries it sometimes works and it sometimes doesn’t.

How do you see the various disciplines of design informing each other? Do you feel cross-pollination and exchange is increasing? Is this a good thing? 

It is definitely a good thing – but frankly I don’t see all that much evidence of it increasing.

Royal Como’s bathrooms, featuring Caroma Marc Newson

Melbourne multi-residential project, Royal Como has been specified with the Caroma Marc Newson collection, how do you feel this collection reflects the design values of the project? 

I am happy to see it has been selected and it appears to reflect the modern aesthetic of this environment.

You use colour to great effect in this range, what is your thought process surrounding its use in your designs? 

I often use colour – simply because I like to use certain colours that I feel comfortable with and that add something to the design – and it also adds a pop of humour – which is essential.

Royal Como’s bathrooms, featuring Caroma Marc Newson

What technology/material/concept/designer do you find exciting at the moment? 

I am constantly excited by new technologies and concepts out there – there are far too many for me to identify just one or two. As far as designers are concerned – well I have very little contact – I hardly ever read design magazines.

Marc Newson
marc-newson.com

Caroma
caroma.com.au