Designer insights with Dan Hoolahan

Dan Hoolahan is designer collaborating on numerous projects, as well working on self directed projects and commissions, based in Liverpool.  Dan has expertise in 3D Design, a subject he focussed on at University College Falmouth, graduating in 2011. He is specifically influenced by functionality, usability and aesthetics of everyday objects. Working with products and furniture he loves experimenting with new materials, techniques, forms and new technologies. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Dan Hoolahan.

Designer Insights - Dan Hoolahan

Image Credit: 1) Design Milk 2) Design Milk  3) Design Milk  4) Maple Rack Style 5) Max Lamb

- Transcript -

1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

I deliberately aim avoid following styles or trends. Instead my focus is on finding the right solution to the brief, which varies from project to project.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

The most important aspect of every project is the research, so this is the focus of my process.  Depending on the project, this might involve identifying a need for design, ethnographic research, experimenting with materials and processes, and user testing.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

Back when I was a student I assisted Max Lamb in the making of his Pewter Desk. He carved a mould of the desk into a beach by hand and a group of us filled it with molten pewter from about 30 camping stoves. He only had one shot at getting it right and there was so much that could go wrong. It's always been a particularly memorable day.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

Inspiration can come from anywhere. Generally just from everyday life and observations. Looking at something and thinking “how can that be done differently?”

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

Where I am at this point has come from a series of events that weren’t necessarily planned or foreseen. Its still early days for myself but I would say its important to be prepared to try things out and see what works. Don’t fear mistakes, but learn from them and be willing to put yourself out there.