Design Between the Lines

George Hall is the creator of eclectic fashion brand Gezzani. He joins John to explore its unique styling which utilizes upcycled furniture upholstery. Their conversation shares powerful insight as they discuss how George got to where he is; as well as the significance of art as a way of life.

In today's episode, we dive into the world of those who bring their own designs to life. Longtime maker/designer Jeremy Kamiya joins John along with newcomer Caleb Collins to explain their approach to design as well as discuss the blossoming maker movement.

Dr. Bryle Henderson Hatch and Raven Jeffereson join the show to share their passion for helping others attain success. Together, they explore ways to expose students and underserved communities to the design industry; as well as provide them the educational opportunities needed to explore the myriad of career opportunities available.

Up and comer DuVäl Reynolds meets with John to share his perspectives on the design industry; as well as what it takes to operate a business in a creative field. They touch on all things from his processes with clients to his work promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

On this special edition of Design Between the Lines, John welcomes a few student winners of Innovation + Design 2021 as well as industry veterans and key players in High Point, NC. The interviews took place at the “Meet the Designers” reception held one evening during the week-long exhibition for Innovation + Design 2021. This competition and exhibition was held as an opportunity for designers, makers, artisans and students to express broader creativity, thoughtfulness, and inventiveness with executable designs in functional home furnishings.

Trend forecasting expert Jaye Anna Mize appears on the show to discuss the factors driving consumer decisions today as well as the micro and macro trends we could be seeing in home furnishings. Beyond that, she shares her thoughts on diversity and inclusion within the industry and delivers insight for students entering the workforce. 

In this episode of Design Between the Lines, Gail Doby dives into her career of bridging the gap between the creative and entrepreneurial work of the designers who consult with her. She explains the significance of good leadership and provides deep insight into the world of coaching and consulting in design. 

President and CEO of Century Furniture, Alex Shuford III, sits with John to deliver insight into his career journey as well as his family business which operates 8 factories and employs over 1500 in the United States. Their discussion ranges from the significance of thoughtful design to the uncertainties of a COVID impacted landscape and the tenets of good leadership. 

As home furnishing trends show "the inside moving out", Uli Tombuelt takes a deep dive with John into the world of outdoor fabrics and specifically what it means to epitomize the word "performance". Their discussion spans Uli's illustrious career and delivers unique insight into what makes a good leader.

Diving deep into the world of fabric design is Wesley Mancini - an experienced artist whose impact has extended far beyond fabrics and into the Charlotte, North Carolina LGBTQ+ community. He and John look at integral industry topics such as the significance of fabrics in home furnishings and the continued need for diversity in design.