Will Ambroson

Zuo Modern

Cinde W Ingram -- Casual Living, 8/1/2012 2:00:00 AM

Will AmbrosonQ: When did you start designing?

A: I started when I was 15. My parents had a design firm that I was involved with. It was great experience for what I do today.

Q: What training did you receive?

A: Obviously I went to school for design and worked at a design firm for 13 years, but the hands-on experience was a key factor to where I am now. Actually going out in the field and designing allowed me to build up confidence of my work. Confidence is huge when designing.

Q: What inspires you to design?

A: I love to be creative. I love color and creating an impactful display. The ultimate reward is the expression on a customer's face.

Q: Who are the designers who have influenced you the most?

A: I love the quirkiness of Jonathan Adler, Candice Olson's dramatic flair and David Bromstad's ingenious use of color.

Q: What makes a great casual furniture design?

A: Functionality that is styliZuo Modernsh. Anyone can create an outdoor piece, but it all comes down to comfort and functionality. People go and enjoy the outdoors to relax, unwind and disconnect.

Q: What materials are most satisfying for you to create designs for?

A: Aluminum because it is easy to form, lightweight and VERY durable.

Q: Of which designs or accomplishments are you most proud?

A: Zuo Modern won Best of Floor in Atlanta and Best of Show in High Point for my showroom designs. But the biggest accomplishment is seeing an idea come to reality and the joy people feel when experiencing the final product.

Q: When the well runs dry, how do you recharge your creative spark?

A: I love to go out to the local design district and spend a day walking around and observing different showrooms, talking to the local designers.

Q: What do you know wnow that you wish you had known earlier in your career?

A: I wish I would have taken more architecture courses. It's key for product planning, designing and construction.