Maker Monday: An Aspire Exclusive Interview With Jake Szymanski

Jake Szymanski does not want to repeat himself, or anyone around him. Raised for seven years in Nepal, and currently residing in New York City, Szymanski knows there is no limit to environment and culture, so why should there be a limit on design? Following the principle that there are always blends of shape, structure, and material to be discovered, Szymanski and his team of artisans design furniture, lighting fixtures, and decorative objects at J.M. Szymanski Workshop and Gallery. They deliver a unique collection as refined as it is unusual. Introducing this week’s Maker Monday, Jake Szymanski.

J.M. Szymanski’s collection of furniture utilizes a variety of materials from blackened steel to graphite. Photography by Jenna Bascom.

Andrew Joseph: What would you like to be remembered for?
Jake Szymanski: I would like to be remembered for creating meaningful products that enhance and improve our built environment.

AJ: Do you get your eight hours a night? – what is your schedule like?
JS: I need a minimum of 8 hours of sleep! I will sleep 9-10 hours if I can. I am a huge advocate for getting quality sleep. With good sleep I can work an efficient (efficient is the keyword) 8 hour day and then have dinner with my partner or friends, take my dog to the park and then end the evening with one of my favorite TV shows (shamelessly…this will likely be Real Housewives).

AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
JS: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Keep your eyes on the big picture.

AJ: What do you find yourself daydreaming about most these days?
JS: I daydream about a custom home that I am designing in the Hudson Valley. It will be the first concept house by J.M. Szymanski.

Szymanski’s interest in geometric incongruity is partially inspired by Antoni Gaudi, a Catalen architect of the late 19th and early 20th century known for his modernistic flair and use of natural forms.

AJ: What’s the best thing that happened to you this month?
JS: I am so proud and excited to be a Créateur Select for the upcoming Créateurs Design Association awards.

AJ: What’s your favorite cocktail?
JS: I am proud to be 2 years sober… my preferred drink is bitters and soda.

AJ: What is something you hope to see trending in design in the future?
JS: I can’t believe I’m saying this…I am craving a return to traditional elements in architecture and design. Contemporary art and design is starting to feel outrageous simply for outrageous sake. Much of contemporary design in today’s market needs to scream for attention in order to stand out. Good contemporary design should simply stand out, not scream.

AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
JS: I dream of one day doing permanent public artwork somewhere in my beloved city of New York.

Szymanski’s side tables are crafted from crafted blackened steel with a wax finish, adding a subtly hardened edge to an atypical structure.

AJ: Are you a pet person? Why either way? Dogs or cats?
JS: YES, YES, YES! Dogs have contributed to my life since I was a very young boy. My standard poodle, Ella, brings me great joy every single day. She is my Muse.

AJ: What are your beauty secrets?
JS: Exercise, Sunscreen, and moisturizer. Everyday.

AJ: What’s your biggest fear in life?
JS: Regret is my biggest fear. Balding is my second.

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About The Maker | Jake Szymanski is American-born, however, he grew up in Nepal where his family worked in global health development. In his early 20’s, he moved to Spain where he studied the designs of Antoni Gaudi. The inspiration he took from these travels led him to a career in design. He returned to the USA from Spain to study interior design at The Fashion Institute of Technology. Later, he studied furniture production at The School of Visual Arts. He went on to work for William Sofield, director of Studio Sofield. He is the most recent recipient of the Rising Star Award in Product Design from The International Furnishings and Design Association. In 2016, Jake Szymanski began a furniture and lighting company called J.M. Szymanski. In just a few years, our designs have become widely used by the industries leading international interior designers and architects. Clients include Kelly Wearstler, Olsen Kundig, Marc Cunningham, Studio Sofield, Studio Mellone, and Carolina Herrera. Our furniture has been published in Architectural Digest, Introspective Magazine, Cottages and Gardens, Galerie, and Elle Décor.

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