In the fall issue of aspire design and home we delve into the world of DESIGN DUOS, examining their synergy, successful collaborations and the unique dynamics that make their (personal and professional) partnerships thrive.
Keith Gordon & Barry Goralnick | Product Design
How and when did you meet:
We met at a dinner party many years ago.
How long have you been in business together?:
We have been pursuing product design together since 2008.
Villeroy & Boch MetroChic
This or that…
Are you a morning person or nocturnal?
Barry: I flipped the switch to morning years ago when the only time I could study for my licensing exams was before work. When it’s quiet, I sketch and catch up on communication before the day heats up.
Keith: I am a morning person when it comes to work, but only after I have coffee. I am nocturnal after a few cocktails.
Do you prefer phone calls or Zoom/video?
Barry: With clients and staff, I prefer to meet in person. Zooms make it possible to work on projects in remote locations and with design partners all over the world.
Keith: I prefer phone calls, unless visuals are required.
Currey & Company Artemis Leather Arm Chair
Is your office neat and organized or messy/creatively cluttered?
Barry: A recent meme asked, “Do you load the dishwasher as if you were a Swedish architect or a raccoon?” Although I am an architect, I confess that my desk and Dropbox look like they were invaded by raccoons.
Keith: I am neat and organized (the computer desktop is another thing).
Are you a social butterfly or do you prefer the comforts of home?
Barry: I am an extrovert; I am out a lot!
Keith: I am very social; I love a good cocktail or dinner party. But, compared to Barry, I am a monk.
Watermark James 133 Collection
My favorite period in design is…
Barry: Much of the design that inspires me is from the 1930s. Everything from the Bauhaus to Art Deco. Houses like the Villa Necchi in Milan and Eltham Palace in London are two of my favorite examples.
Keith: Now – the blend of influences is creating some remarkable, memorable new designs. Deco’s bold rectilinear glamour always appeals to me.
I am creatively inspired by…
Barry: Fashion, art, jewelry, architecture, and history. Traveling opens the world to new inspiration and wonders in all these fields.
Keith: Photography – it captures an instant in time with distinct perspective, lighting, and emotion (video is far less unadulterated or judicious).
Currey & Company Merle Finn Safari Chair
The best part of working together is…
Barry: Keith has the perfect balance of right brain/left brain. He has a great eye and assembles gorgeous, romantic presentations. His background in publishing, advertising, and brand creation adds untold value to our business, from reviewing contracts to delving into the marketplace to find opportunities.
Keith: My tastes are continually broadened and challenged by someone who I respect and admire; plus, the curiosity inherent in our pursuit of new designs is truly a fountain of youth.
Click here to see more from our Design Duos series.
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