For the More Space series Design Insiders which introduces the creative thinkers behind the Space brand, we meet Jonathan Yung whose interest in design was inspired early on by his parents' sense of style. For Jonathan, that interest has blossomed working in the design industry, where learning about the journey of a piece of design is deepened by the sometimes intriguing story that lies behind it.
More Space: Hi Jonathan, can you tell us about how your interest in design developed?
Jonathan Yung: I was influenced by my parents who have very good taste and I was also fortunate to have the freedom to explore different things in life. When I was in high school, I enjoyed art and the quiet focus needed to shape your thoughts into drawings and models, and I went on to study mechatronic engineering at the Nanyang Polytechnic in Singapore. Four years ago, I designed a home for the family and I enjoyed that process, even with the challenges I found it very interesting. It’s now great to see all of those ideas turned into reality.
When did you join the Space team, and can you please describe your role?
I joined the Space team in January, 2019, as a senior contract sales executive. It is an interesting role where I get to spend time with designers, architects and retail clients to understand their furniture needs. It is exciting to be part of the projects and I am always learning something new.
A sketch of the Caratos armchairs by Antonio Citterio. Sketch c/o Maxalto.
What have been some of your memorable moments?
Working in the design industry gives me the chance to understand design more deeply, not just the appearance of it but the story behind it. To understand a design piece’s life journey and how it is born, like the Bocci 14 light. The way its designer Omer Arbel started the company with a single product, a dream and a passion, and the innovative way he creates and produces each piece by hand. Also the story of the Navy chair and how its manufacturer Emecco uses the 77 step process to recycle the aluminium that makes them. There are very memorable stories that make working with furniture so fascinating.
What do you enjoy most about sharing your design knowledge?
To be able to inspire others and spark interest. Once clients learn about the stories they want to find out more about design.
"The advice I always give for choosing design is follow your instinct of the first love. It may be difficult to explain why we are drawn but I think the answer is definitely found in the deeper inner self."
Jonathan Yung
What is your favourite piece in the Space collection, and what is it about that piece that caught your eye?
The Maxalto Caratos armchair is a favourite of mine. I like its smooth and fluid shape, its enveloping back forms the armrest beautifully and is also very functional. I also like the barstool with its low back support and swivel seat for easy and comfortable conversation.
Who are some of your favourite designers?
Antonio Citterio for his clean and aesthetically timeless design. The way he observes life and puts our daily rituals into his design concepts, he develops those thoughts in such a resolved way. Another is Omer Arbel who uses different materials (glass, wax, cement) to express his thoughts. The way he uses them in his design is always very interesting to watch and I get a lot of inspiration from his innovative ideas.
Are you reading anything interesting right now?
I like reading Tatler Homes. It is always interesting to find out about the design concepts from a designer, and through their designs to understand each designer more.
The Caratos chair collection designed by Antonio Citterio for Maxalto. Photo c/o Maxalto.
The soft curves of the Caratos are beautiful in both form and comfort. Photo c/o Maxalto.
Architect Antonio Citterio heads up the creative direction at furniture house Maxalto. Photo c/o Maxalto.
Detail sketch of the Caratos chair by Antonio Citterio c/o Maxalto.
Maxalto and B&B Italia on show at D-Studio in Milan during Milan Design Week. Photo c/o D-Studio.
Annually the Milan Furniture Fair features the design world's most fascinating and inspiring installations that open up the city and its historic architecture. Photo c/o Milan Design Week.
"...sometimes my children's drawings and the colours they use, or the soft clay that they mould, really surprises and inspires me." Drawings by Jonathan Yung's son above, and daughter second right. Sketch c/o Jonathan Yung.
Jonathan Yung photographed on the Caratos chair. Portrait © Franz Navarrete.
The Caratos stool collection by Antonio Citterio for Maxalto. Photo c/o Maxalto.
"The Maxalto Caratos armchair is a favourite of mine. I like its smooth and fluid shape, its enveloping back forms the armrest beautifully and is also very functional."
Jonathan Yung
What is your favourite design destination, or where would you like to travel to next?
I would like to feel the ambience in Italy, and yet, I also think our daily lives can be very interesting. I like to take time to observe my surrounding in detail, sometimes my children's drawings and the colours they use, or the soft clay that they mould, really surprises and inspires me.
Design is an extension of who we are, it's very personal. What is the best piece of advice that you always give clients when they are choosing a piece of design?
The advice I always give for choosing design is follow your instinct of the first love. It may be difficult to explain why we are drawn but I think the answer is definitely found in the deeper inner self.
What are you looking forward to in 2022?
The 60th Salone Del Mobile that launches in Milan this June.
Thanks so much Jonathan.
