Design talk with Alexa Blum
We regularly promote creative makers who shape the vibe of the local design scene — like designer Alexa Blum, who has her studio in our home base Langenthal.
1. Challenge: What are you thinking about right now?
The project with the old foundry in Riedwil, which I bought with my husband and friends, is what drives me the most. The challenge is how to formulate a concept that is powerful but at the same time leaves a lot open. The goal is a lively, changeable mix of studios, living space and open spaces.
2. Passion: You are involved with evidence-based colour and design projects, also in the field of inclusive design. What can they achieve there?
My strenght is: combining science and design, because it is measurable that you can achieve a certain effect with evidence-based colour design. They create comprehensible structures, orientation and security. Targeted impulses support processes, identity becomes visible and connects.
3. Desired cooperation: with whom would you like to realise a project?
Generally with offices and people who are passionate about their respective professions. That’s what I do in my special field, and when my counterpart does the same, very cool things emerge.
4. Newcomer: Who from the national and international design scene do you currently follow?
There are many young designers who don’t follow the usual path but do their thing independently and consistently, which is exciting. One of them is Andri Oppliger, whom I have known for a long time. After a bachelor’s degree in fashion design at HEAD Genève, he is now studying architecture at the ETH and is looking for ideas to combine sustainability and aesthetics.
5. Dinner round: Who from the Swiss and international design scene would ideally sit at the table with you?
Hmm, I would prefer to be surprised, because sometimes the most exciting encounters arise completely by chance. When I think about it, I would really like to have such an experiment. Maybe Design Preis Schweiz can organise it …
6. Hotspot: Which place do you particularly like in Langenthal?
The Grüne Halle, which also has a long tradition with Design Preis Schweiz. It has become an extremely lively place where many things come together. For example, an inclusive project that combines design with integration, or Vagner Aguiar’s restaurant.
7. What do you find in Langenthal that inspires you in your everyday life and work?
Air, open spaces and places with design history. Nevertheless, you are close to Paris or Milan.
8. As a Person from Langenthal, have you ever missed a Design Preis Schweiz award ceremony and what is the event for you?
Never since I’ve lived in Langenthal, that is since 1994. I think the continuity and change of the prize is great. The categories renew or change parallel to current design topics and social discussions.
9. Time travel: What do you think you’ll be doing in five years?
