Interview: Benjamin Hubert

– by Milly Burroughs

Known for his forward thinking approach to creativity, and experience-driven agency Layer, Benjamin Hubert has cemented his role as an industry leader over the last few years. In a demonstration of two contrasting sides of his work, Benjamin will be using Clerkenwell London to debut an advanced prototype of new 3D-printed wheelchair GO while simultaneously exhibiting Layer’s latest collection of furniture and accessory designs in the multi-sensory space’s Vinyl Lounge. We spoke to Benjamin as he prepares for one of the biggest events in the design calendar. 

I think it’s an opportunity for London to show its creativity, optimism and passion for design. 

We already see what’s happening with it. For us it’s about understanding what is appropriate and what should be designed with the 3D-printing process. It’s not about decoration, it’s about imitating complex forms in the human body. Like creating a second skin with more synergy than medical designs from the past. Solving issues like comfort and the injuries that are experienced by the users of medical products. 

I mean, everything progresses. Technology is moving forward at a rate of knots. Our job as designers is to tap into that and use it as a tool to progress concepts and ideas that we thought of five or 10 years ago. We have to think about how can they be evolved to answer questions, using technology as a tool to answer questions. 

After Clerkenwell Design Week we have the London Design Festival! There will be a big installation at V&A and a chair with Fritz Hansen. We work on a two year schedule so we’re working on things for next year already.