spacetm: SpaceTM talks to Timorous Beasties

Deconstructed Pisticule Lamp, 2009

Timorous Beasties are one of the most original textile and wallpaper creatives in the UK today. Shortlisted for the Designer of the Year Awards in 2005 and one of Philip Treacy's favourite fabric designers, they recently caused a minor scandal on release of their new Edinburgh Toile, commissioned by the Edinburgh International Festival. (Don't you love a heated debate?)

Whilst launching lots of exciting new things in Milan Design Week, such as their new digi fabric and the 'Chester Chair', one half of them – Paul Simmons – managed to find time to answer some questions for SpaceTM in celebration of their forthcoming exhibition at the Millennium Gallery, Sheffield, inspired by the latter's John Ruskin collection.

What’s currently inspiring you?
Will Oldham also known as Bonnie Prince Billy and as The Palace Brothers.
Where is your favourite space?
Rossana Orlandi's Cafe in Milan
Country or city?
City.
Victoriana or 20th century modernism?
Modernism
Computer or pen & paper?
Pen and paper.
Tidy or messy?
Messy.
If you could, would you invite Ruskin round for dinner?
Of course, but I wouldn't have him stay for too long in case he bored everybody!

Timorous Beasties Presents A Bird In The Hand is at Millennium Gallery from 9 May – 25 October

Some more work from the exhibition to enjoy: