About
Design
Demelza's work demonstrates a passion for playing with peoples' perceptions of materials and forms, delivering objects that evoke feeling and draw you in. From familiar shapes to tactile materials, her approach has been demonstrated in lighting, furniture, accessories and public art works.
Based in Brighton, Demelza Designs and prototypes pieces from her studio and sources suppliers and craftspeople all over the UK to produce the products in small batches. She works closely with everyone from material suppliers to craftspeople and all are proud to be a part of the creation of each piece.
Selected by the British Crafts Council as a graduate to show in their Milan 'Top Ten', she has gone on to exhibit in Cannes, Poland and several London shows, as well as her own stand at 100% Design. Her portfolio also includes collaborations with the Hilton Hotel, Nike and Faberge.
Background
Demelza was born in the south east of England where her family have had a background in rubber manufacturing since 1954, alongside farming. Growing up she spent a lot of time at the family-run factory, working there during her holidays. This knowledge of industry including understanding the design and manufacturing process from raw material to delivery to the client, has led her to succeed with a hands-on approach to design. She works closely with skilled craftspeople and factories to showcase their skills through her designs.
'I've been lucky enough to visit many factories in the UK and work closely with some highly skilled producers. Factories are like sweet shops to me and one of my main sources of inspiration. We have such a deeply ingrained industrial heritage here in Great Britain, it makes sense to make the most of it.'
Experience
Demelza graduated from Brighton University in 2007 with a 1st in Product Design. Demelza was selected by the British Council to exhibit in Milan that year. Soon after graduating she moved to London and exhibited on her own stand at 100% Design in September 2007.
In 2008 she went on to work for designer Tom Dixon, managing the design and production of the brand's Limited Edition pieces for the art market, as well as products for Tom Dixon's commercial ranges. This experience provided an insight into both the high end art world and the challenges of designing products for the luxury consumer market. Her additional roles included exhibition design/install and designing live shows for trade events such as 'Milan Furniture Fair and Miami Art Fair.
2011 saw the launch in London of Demelza's own brand of homeware alongside working on select commissions and collaborations.
In 2012 Demelza moved to Brighton where she has continued to work and expand her product range.