Tom Dixon has had a fascinating journey from art school dropout to one of the most admired designers of furniture and lighting in the world.

After learning to weld so he could repair his motorbike after a crash, Tom soon discovered that he could use this newfound skill to create furniture. The rest is history...

Despite dropping out of art school in favour of joining a band (Funkapolitan – they were good enough to tour with The Clash!), Tom’s interest in design never waned, and he soon discovered a real talent for welding.

His creative contacts noticed his skills and he started to get commissions for props for photographers, video makers, window displays and furniture. By the late-80s his work was highly sought after, and his ‘S’ Chair, designed while working for Cappellini, became an iconic piece.

It’s testament to his character that Tom Dixon lighting has become just as recognisable and desirable as his furniture. He was one of the first designers to create a modular lighting system with his “sitting, stacking, lighting thingy” known as Jack – a moulded plastic lighting system that looked both organic and modern.

It’s important to note that Dixon has always been a hands-on designer. When he wanted to use moulded plastics he learnt how to do it himself – the same as with every material he’s ever used.

He understands that for people to be passionate about your products, you have to put the same degree of intensity into the design process, and that means getting your hands dirty!

You only have to look at Dixon’s mantra “extraordinary objects for everyday use” to find your inspiration in his work. It’s easy to fall into a trap of choosing furniture that’s functional but bland, when you could follow Tom’s lead and pick functional and fabulous items instead!

Developing living spaces that enrich the soul and inspire conversation is a great way to keep you and your family’s creative juices flowing... and make you the talk of your friends!

We encourage you to invest in interesting pieces for your interior designs, or to use websites like Pinterest for ideas and inspiration for creating your own furniture. It’s easier than it looks, and with the right attitude and a willingness to learn, you could soon be a design icon like Tom Dixon!