The Creative Minds Behind Uk-Made Design: In Conversation With Melanie Holland and Amy Pears
Our in-house design team is a cornerstone of Johnson Tiles’ success. Their years of experience, passion and collaborations with trusted global partners enable us to create and source products that meet the highest environmental and social standards while reflecting ever-changing tile design trends.
We sat down with Design Manager, Melanie Holland and Senior Designer, Amy Pears, to discover how the design process is evolving following the company buyout and restructure, where they find their inspiration, and what we can expect to see over the next year.
Welcome, Mel and Amy. Tell us about your background as a designer, and your main responsibilities at Johnson Tiles.
MEL: Even as a child, I always loved drawing and experimenting with colours and textures, which led me to study Surface Pattern at Staffordshire University and later, pursue a Master’s in Ceramics. I then started my career with a placement at Wedgwood and some freelance work before joining the Johnson Tiles team nearly 22 years ago now.
Since 2018, I’ve had the pleasure of leading the design team, taking responsibility for the entire design process from initial concept to production, ensuring that each design meets market demands. With a keen eye for detail, I integrate customer preferences, design trends, and cutting-edge advancements in techniques and technologies to help produce distinctive and exclusive tile designs.
AMY: My journey into ceramics began similar to Mel’s, which is why we work so well together. I’ve had a passion for interiors and a keen eye for detail from a young age when I spent hours creating bedroom designs. This led me to art college and a degree in Surface Pattern Design at Staffs Uni, which is where I discovered my love for tile design. My final project was to create a tile collection, and I was instantly drawn to the material because it was so different from working with fabrics and paper. I loved the various effects and finishes that could be achieved with tiles. So when the opportunity at Johnson Tiles arose, I knew it was the place for me. I was so inspired by that project that I continue to work with the Surface Pattern Design students at the University, setting an annual industry design brief and working with them to grow and develop.
Now in my role as Senior Designer, I enjoy developing innovative tile ranges, experimenting with patterns, colours and textures. My days involve everything from trend and colour analysis to visiting trade shows and events, which power trend brochures and product presentations. I also support the marketing team, creating CGI schemes, styling arrangements and flat lays that reflect these trends.
Source: https://www.johnson-tiles.com/blog/2024/08/the-creative-minds-behind-uk-made-design-in-conver/
Jordan Kaur is a British author of Young Adult fiction novels based in Leeds, England. He debut novel “The Last Horizon” won critical acclaim, and His subsequent works have also received positive reviews. Kaur has been actively involved in the YA literature community, speaking at conventions and conducting writing workshops for young audiences
