Meet the Design Guild Mark judges: Jason Wilary-Attew

Jason inspecting a 2017 entry.

One of the factors that makes the Design Guild Mark the most prestigious awards programme for furniture in the UK  is the expertise of the judges.

All of them are experts in their respective fields and bring years of experience to the Design Guild Mark judging process.

Jason Wilary-Attew  is the buying and merchandising director of The Conran Shop. Jason previously worked for the Fenwick Group, where he was the Director of Buying for homewares, furnishings and beauty, specifically focusing on its Bentalls department store. Prior to this, Jason worked at John Lewis for almost nine years, undertaking various roles within the company’s branding and buying departments.

What first turned you on to a career in the design world?

My interest in product led me to study Product Design for my degree, in some way inspired by Sir Terence Conran and his significant influence on design and retail. From there, I moved in to retail, where I have been able to use my design background to develop product alongside influencing the product that is bought.

Can you sum up in a few words what design excellence means to you?

Honesty of intent, and therefore honesty in output. Being true to a design brief, the materials used and outcome finally for the customer.

What do you enjoy most about the Design Guild Mark judging process?

Meeting other like-minded people, from the judges to the designers themselves.

What is the hardest part of the process?

Whittling down the great number of potential designs down to a final short list.

What is your favourite Design Guild Mark piece of all time and why?

Robin Day 675 chair – British design that was contemporary in its time, but has also stood the test of time.

What tip would you give a designer coming in to present at the judging day?

Speak from the heart – tell us the story. Also, try to ensure you can do this succinctly.

What is the future of furniture design?

Flourishing!

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