“Meet Designer, Malcolm Fontier”: An interview with Scout Mob published January 26, 2010
Local designer Malcolm Fontier has been featured in so many noteworthy magazines, it seems ridiculous to name them all (but we’ll start: Wired, Dwell, Lucky, Design Milk, AJC, Thrillist, etc., etc.) The man behind the design is just as cool and collected as the unique, modern pieces on his animal-friendly travel line.
Scout: How would you best describe your work to someone who’s never seen it before?
Malcolm: Most of my work has a clean aesthetic backed up with clever details. I strive for a casual and versatile feel — an approachable modern style.
Scout: What made you pursue this passion? Or at what point did you realize “this is what I have to do”?
Malcolm: Shortly after my now wife, Gabrielle, and I started dating we decided we wanted to start a business together. We laid out all of our skills, interests, and ideal working conditions. With my background in industrial design, her interest in marketing, and a shared passion for travel we landed on modern travel accessories. Being able to work from anywhere and call all of our travel “research” is definitely a nice bonus!
Scout: Where in Atlanta do you go to get new ideas? Or where do you go to unwind?
Malcolm: My favorite place is on 2-wheels- exploring on either my bike or motorcycle.
Scout: Your favorite “curious find” in Atlanta?
Malcolm: There’s a lot of cool spots around our studio just south of Downtown in The Railroad District which most people don’t frequent. Calabash vegetarian restaurant on Mitchell Street is one our faves. We also like The Social on the other side of downtown – great food and drink with a fun international vibe.
Scout: Another local Atlantan that inspires you or your work?
Malcolm:peopleofresource.com. We collaborate on a lot of projects, but whether we’re meeting on a project or not- we end up with an impromptu brainstorm- and in the end, making more work for ourselves, but it’s good.
Scout: Where do you get your best ideas?
Malcolm: When traveling. For some reason the ideas flow easily when I am traveling, whether it’s on a plane or chatting with friends over drinks. I think more clearly without all the distractions of the phone and computer.
The full article: http://www.scoutmob.com/scoutfinds/49
