What led you to pursue a career in design?
I remember making a wooden pencil box when I was about 10 years old. This box was pretty simple, but I recall spending hours in my father's workshop, finishing it. What I remember most about that box was holding it up and feeling its proportions, not with my hands, but with my eyes. Somehow it had to "agree" with me. Years later this somewhat sincere process led me to pursue a career in design - after stints in plumbing, building and air-conditioning.
How would you describe your style?
My only real requirement is that each piece that's created in my studio can stand alone and be proud in the space that it holds.
What is your style influenced by?
Design is a deeply personal process. The suggestion of what "influences" this process is a challenging one. Of course, there are the generic motivations like shape, texture, form, function, colour and so on. But what really influences my design choices is a need to express and find myself, a desire to create balance. A yearning for freedom from how things "should" be and a desire to create pieces that have never been seen before.
Your favourite materials to work with?
Steel and wood. They both carry so much character. How you finish them, shape them or colour them.
A piece you've made that stands out as a personal favourite?
My first piece for Southern Guild [a gallery that's spearheaded the limited-edition design movement in SA] was particularly memorable as I realised collectable design was something that made me tick.What are you working on?
I just finished a custom seating installation for Nando's head office in London, and am now producing new furniture ranges, décor pieces and an architectural pavilion.A piece you'd love to design one day?
A building from the ground up.
Who would you love to own one of your products?
My parents, Julian and Trevyn McGowan of Southern Guild and designer Philippe Stark.
Good design is...
Courageous and rarely asks for permission.South African designers you admire?
Porky Hefer, Gregor Jenkin, Andile Dyalvane and Studio 19. Haldane Martin has recently reinvented his brand, which is great to see. David Krynauw is also making his mark with some renowned design and manufacturing ability.
If there was one item you could buy right now for your home, what would it be?
Joseph Walsh Enignum VIII chairs.
A design tip for our readers?
Design isn't something you learn, it's something you feel...