Peter Rattle for CUS (Vic) Pty Ltd

About Peter Rattle for CUS (Vic) Pty Ltd

Commercial Upholstery Solutions specialises in all aspects of commercial furniture applications. Our focus is to not only meet but exceed the Client's expectations and we achieve this by exceptional design, seamless manufacture and hands on Project Management from the initial prototype to final installation. This commitment to the commercial market place has seen us manufacture and supply joinery and seating to a wide range of Clients, including major Hotels, Resorts, Casino, Educational and Office fit-outs.

Winner of 2 A' Design Awards.
Specialized in Interior Design.
Original Design.
Creative, Diligent and Innovative.

Interview with Peter Rattle for CUS (Vic) Pty Ltd

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?

Originally I started out as a Civil Engineer in the Mining and Manufacturing sector but I have always been interested in the symmetry of both natural and man-made items. From there I progressed into the fabrication of custom furniture whereby these symmetries blend together.

Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?

Commercial Upholstery Solutions (Vic) Pty Ltd is a manufacturer of custom designed furniture for the commercial market place. We can combine upholstery, joinery, metalwork with polishing capabilities to bring any project design to reality.

What is "design" for you?

Design to me is an idea that something needs to not only fit the purpose required, but also push the boundary.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

I like to work with all types of products that can have an impact.

What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?

Some time ago we completed a project for the University of Melbourne that involved not only the manufacture of hundreds of Acoustic panels, but also a new installation method over 6 floors and a large Atrium. That was ground breaking for us and eventually won a Golden A 'Design Award.

What is your favorite material / platform / technology?

We currently use a variety of fabrics, timber species as well as metal.

What makes a design successful?

A tricky question but simply one that meets the budget, meets the Builders/Architects requirements and leaves the Client with the wow factor.

Who are some of your clients?

Our Clients, range from high end Hotels, Resorts, Restaurants, Casino's, Educational facilities to Office fitouts.

Extended Interview with Peter Rattle for CUS (Vic) Pty Ltd

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

I started my career as a professional Civil Engineer working in the Mining sector. From there I moved into the manufacturing industry, predominately Carpets both building machinery as well as designing products. As I have always been a hands on person it was an easy progression to the Commercial Furniture Industry where every project and the Clients needs are different.

How did you become a designer?

To manufacture a range of products that are both fit for purpose and add an aesthetic benefit.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

No, it was a gradual progression from different business sectors that lead me to this area.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

Most of our designs are based around various types of furniture, but we are always striving to do a little more each time so that the eventual product has a wow factor.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

They need to have patience with a touch of perseverance, as it will take time.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

Listening to the Client and understanding their needs and outcomes.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

All our projects are completely different and I am still looking for another Dream Project.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

The secret recipe is to create a special empathy to what is required and built on that useing the senses of sight and touch.

Who is your favourite designer?

The University of Melbourne Arts West Building in which we won a Golden A 'Design Award some years ago.