The Art of Design Issue 40 2019 | Page 12

12 MEET MAN OF PARTS “A person of many talents and endeavours, a Man of Parts is free to In curating designs from around the world, he was inspired to explore, question, and evolve. No longer constrained by borders, bring together globally-minded people. So, when Stephen came styles, or roles, they seek out a diversity of perspectives. to London looking to find a design destination that captured this global spirit, he found a kindred soul in Swedish-born, international Man of Parts is a postnational brand with design that reflects the designer Staffan Tollgard. The multi-faceted Tollgard could be world, enabling it to flow between the varied contexts you create described as a Man of Parts himself. Born and raised in Stockholm, with ease. We’re open-minded by design.” educated first as a film-maker in Bournemouth, then in London at the Inchbald School of Design, Staffan married a South African This Autumn, to coincide with Design Week in London, Tollgard before starting his eponymous design practice. Design Group officially introduces Man of Parts to Europe. The brainchild of founder Stephan Weishaupt, the brand has attracted Staffan recalls “I’ve known Avenue Road in Toronto, Vancouver and some of the foremost design talent in the world to collaborate on its New York for ten years since they started. I would say that I, like most pieces. people, suffered from distinct showroom envy whenever I visited their incredible showrooms. It’s a huge honour to bring Man of Parts Born and raised in Munich, Stephan’s family — a long line of to an European audience.” craftsmen, entrepreneurs, architects and artists — informed his curiosity, creativity and an openness to exploring many points Staffan and Stephen have selected Man of Part’s most iconic designs of view. Embodying a Man of Parts himself, Stephan travels the to bring to the European launch, including the Bond Street Stool, world in search of unique perspectives for North American retail Jinbao and Rua Ipanema armchairs as well as the Gin Lane bar cart. destination Avenue Road. Left: La Rambla Lounge Chair Right: Bond street Stool