Vincent Van Duysen

When did you realise you wanted to be a designer?

I couldn’t wait to be born to express my creativity. I’ve always been someone who was creativly engaged in drawing, crafting, and everything involving image, dance and movement. From early on it was clear I was not born to become a scientist.

What is artificial light for you?

Nothing is as beautiful as day light. The moment darkness falls and artificial light is needed, it can be approached in different ways. Daylight can be simulated in a very technical way or artificial light can be accessed intimately with a domestic and warm appearance.

Why do you like working with Flos?

Because Flos is one of the greatest leaders in lighting concepts in general. It is an iconic company, working closely with exceptional designers from its beginning. Flos has a fresh and innovative perspective at both architectural and domestic lighting. On a human level, they dare to put soul and emotion in light. Sometimes like poetry, often with a touch of irony, without taking it all too seriously.

What is the next object you’d like to design?

After the development of architectural and outdoor products like Infra-Structure and Casting, I hope to contribute to the Flos Home collection.

Is there a great designer, artist or musician you regard as a point of reference for your work?

Too many to mention! The world is full of talent, unfortunately often unrecognized and invisible. I’m not the kind of person who follows the trends, but I appreciate and respect what happens around me.

Is it true that you began designing furniture with an Italian fashion designer, Cinzia Ruggeri?

Yes, I just turned 23 and was a recent graduate without any experience, and came in contact with her through Alessandro Mendini. Mid 80’s Cinzia was looking for a young architect and designer to collaborate for her first furniture design. Her design perspective was very avant garde. It was a very challenging and enriching experience for me. The peak of postmodernism allowed limitless creativity.

You have over 60,000 followers on Instagram: your most recent post with Loulou and Gaston, your dogs, received a record 5,500 likes. Have they stolen the show?

I am a very visual person so Instagram is an important tool for me to share a visual diary to the world through snapshots. Not only work related shots but my daily and personal life too. My dogs play an important role in my life because life woudn’t exist without Gaston and Loulou.