Yvette Pendant – featuring organic lines that evoke the essence of the earth’s artistry.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Kym Gold: Becoming a designer was a very natural process for me, and I was always drawn to it from a young age. My journey as a designer started with clothing because everything I purchased, I recreated in some way and made it more individual to my needs and style, which evolved into my own genre of design. The shift from designing garments to designing ceramics felt natural. It taught me that I can be creative through different mediums, and dumæ has allowed me to express myself in a whole new way.
AJ: Can you tell us about a design trend you are excited about?
KG: I’m very inspired by the Japandi trend right now. The low, grounded structures with natural tones of tan, beige and green are very serene and speak to me and my approach to design. I’ve gone as far as making small changes, like switching my furniture legs to wood tones, to incorporate more natural elements into the space. I also love incorporating textiles and bedding into my designs with the same zen aura. Our latest collection for dumæ is influenced by a lot of what you see in Japandi designs.
AJ: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as a designer?
KG: The best advice I’ve received is to stray from the rules because there truly aren’t any. Your art should be ruled by your passion and authenticity rather than momentary influences. Throughout my career, I’ve stayed true to myself and trusted my gut, and I believe that was the key to my success.
Talia Menorah – echoes the contours of a mountain landscape.
AJ: Can you tell us about a specific moment in your career that made you feel accomplished?
KG: When designers and retailers I’ve admired for years enjoy the dumæ brand and want to collaborate, it gives me that accomplished feeling. Since we started dumæ, we’ve had the chance to work with designers like Brigette Romanek, and retailers like Lulu and Georgia, and Shop Amber. These are brands that I’ve admired in the industry for many years, and it’s exciting to see how enthusiastic they are about the brand and what we’re offering through dumæ.
AJ: What is your favorite place to find inspiration?
KG: I love to find inspiration in the places I travel. London serves as a particularly special source of inspiration with its beautiful combination of fashion and music. From Vivian Westwood to Malcolm McLaren, they all intertwined important areas of culture so well, which has continued to inspire my designs. I also draw a lot of inspiration from where I’ve lived. I love Malibu and see so much beauty in the nature here that is reflected in my pieces and style.
Joy Catchall – captivating edges that gracefully envelop and embrace, making it a true statement piece
AJ: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be and why?
KG: It’s hard to imagine doing anything other than design, so I would imagine translating it into something closely related and creative, like architecture. I would also consider becoming a lawyer since my parents were lawyers. I’ve been told I’d find a way to make it creative and fun. Throughout my career, I’ve championed women founders and creators — I could see a law career advocating for women’s rights.
AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
KG: I’d tell my teenage self that it’s all about the journey — focus on that. I wouldn’t be where I am without patience and trust in myself. It will all get done if you give it the time it needs. It’s all right in front of you, waiting to happen naturally.
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