Interview with Jati Kebon

Mathias De Ferm is a small studio of two persons. Inhouse we do all the design on computer. Prototypes are made by specialists in the right technique. Their input during the prototyping phase is essential.

It means drawn. A word that is often used in the wrong context.

Thonet No. 14, achair made with a new (at the time) technique, unique, and industrially produced. Durable and made in large quantities from locally sourced wood. Even by today's standards, this is a very environmentally friendly design.

A concrete barbecue

Mathias is passionate about old-school production techniques like milling and cutting. New techniques like 3D printing are also very intriguing.

When I just finished a great new concept.

Technical feasibility

All kinds of feelings; ecstasy, excitement, but also frustration and exhaustion...

Pride, insecurity, and an overabundance of information about all the compromises that had to be made.

Original, functional, beautiful, long-lasting, and good sales figures.

The looks

Making long-lasting, functional products.

Globalisation, more international, more custom made

Prior to the corona pandemic, I didn't do exhibitions; my clients mostly do the exhibitions.

Nature, art, antique, technique

Form follows function. Contemporary and designed to last.

Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium. We do have a big scene of great interior architects and a Flemish interior style. We have also a lot of outdoor furniture companies. The biggest disadvantage is that it is a small country. So the local client base is quite limited.

As close as possible. I like to give my opinion about all the details.

A portfolio is essential. I believe it is a good criterion to see if a designer works for the same clients on a regular basis. This means that other businesses like and respect this designer.

There are two types of projects: client assignments and free work. Free work always begins with a brilliant idea that, after a day, appears to be quite stupid. The next step is to see if it is as unique as I believe. Then I start developing it as a concept.

- Kitchen knife, Japanese – custom made
- Homemade cutting board
- Custom 4 meter long table
- Ribag lighting
- Prototypes and first series of tables and chairs

- Bringing kids to school by bike
- Work
- Running tour
- Eat
- Work
- Cook
- Kid time
- Clean up kitchen and preparing the next day

Don’t overinvest in prototyping tools. I see a lot of young people end-up as a carpenter, while their dream was becoming a designer. Build up a good relation with your clients. And, instead of focusing on the current big names, try to identify high-potential brands and grow with them.

- I can design what I would like to have in my house.
- I’m over focused on what is not good in products.

If it’s easy, it already exists, you have to suffer and enjoy it.

Being an all-rounder, a designer does not only designs.

Solidworks, Corona rendering, 3D printing

Put things into perspective, you don’t need to design 10 new chairs per year. Accept that it will be a slow process.

1 year up to many

I'd like something similar to what my competitor has. (Something I never make.)

Having a booth at the interior fair in Kortrijk, Belgium at the beginning of my career.

Jati & Kebon Furniture, Joli, Röshults, Royal Botania, MiaCara

Techniques and mechanics in design.

Becoming more international, reaching a more global audience.

Since recent, as a team.

Email, phone or social media.