MAM
“I just think you can never sit on your laurels”: NB’s Alan Dye
Mumbai: Since the last in-person Designyatra in 2019, the world has spun on its head.
The pandemic prompted a re-evaluation of not just how we work, but the kind of work we’re creating as well. With massive shifts in nearly every aspect of life, it triggered the need for new design narratives to match the flux of life. We had to reimagine how we engage and communicate with everything from brands and business to art, entertainment, and activism. Mindsets changed. And so did the tools available to us. It was time for a reset.
A reset. It’s not just about starting over; it’s about reimagining, realigning, and redrafting some of the rules. It’s about rethinking conventions, challenging norms, and creating fresh narratives. All to remain relevant.
Indiantelevision.com caught up with Alan Dye on the sidelines of the Kyoorius Design Yatra 2023.
Alan co-founder and creative director of NB boasts over 30 years in design, leading notable projects like Philharmonie Luxembourg, Pernod Ricard and the V&A.
Alan is a seasoned judge for international awards, he chaired Typographic Circle for nearly a decade, fostering design appreciation through curated talks. Alan’s impact is undeniable, bridging creativity and industry recognition.
On the ‘reset’ in your life in the context of this year’s Designyatra theme being ‘Reset’
Oh my god! Well, since COVID, I think I have been resetting every single day. In fact, every single day at work for the last 25 years running my own company, we’re always resetting. I just think you can never sit on your laurels. Every single brief is new. You just got to keep going forward and thinking about the new and just working with incredible, amazing people. I think as a designer, you’re just resetting all the time. As soon as you become a designer you see everything around you, i.e., you walk into a restaurant, you pick up the atmosphere, you look at the tablecloth, the music playing, the ambiance of the light, the typography on the menu, and I just think that’s what you do as a designer. It’s just natural in you. So I don’t know if that’s resetting. But I think reset for me is just always constantly thinking about stuff or solving problems. In the bigger sense, I suppose, reset, and after COVID times, it’s just who we think and how we do things I imagined. I don’t really have a kind of heavy, serious question, because running a business is quite a freedom thing. We’re always trying to reinvent or be ourselves and tell different stories. For a designer, resetting is just part of our natural disposition, something we do almost instinctively.
On some of your memorable works
For me, the most memorable work is always the next one, to be honest. You start with a blank sheet of paper. I could be designing the Philharmonie Luxembourg, or the set of stamps for the wall mount or even crafting a Mother’s Day card for my mom. I approach them all with the same dedication. Whatever you do, even if it’s washing dishes, I believe in doing it well. I’ve had the privilege of working on various projects, such as the V&A in England, collaborating with a theater company, and currently, we’re involved with Pernod Ricard. I don’t really have a favorite among them; they’re all memorable in their own way. The most memorable one is usually the current project we’re working on. It’s all about looking forward to the jobs of tomorrow, and I find that quite enjoyable.
On your thoughts on the incredible impact you’ve made and bridged creativity and industry recognition
I had no idea I was incredible. I work in London, and there are so many incredible designers, not just in London, but all around the world. So I don’t really have an answer for that. We’re all part of a larger creative community, and I believe that making the world better and encouraging people to think differently is a wonderful pursuit.
On the feeling of attending Designyatra
Originally, when I was approached, it was just about two weeks ago. It happened because I asked Ashish, who happens to be a mutual friend with Michael Wolfe, a well-known designer in England who played a significant role in shaping the global brand and Indian portfolio. I told Ashish about this book we’ve created with Michael, who is 90 years old, and it’s currently on Kickstarter. I asked him if he could help promote it. He responded by suggesting that I come and be the emcee for an event. At that moment, I didn’t even know what “MC” meant, so I had to quickly look it up. My initial reaction was a mix of surprise and doubt, thinking, “I’ve never done this before.” Now, they want me to stand up and introduce 22 individuals who are making a substantial difference in the world, all without personal agendas but with a shared goal of making the world a better place for everyone.
Being part of Design Yatra is an exceptional platform for these remarkable people to share their experiences, whether they are product designers, furniture makers, AI specialists, graphic designers, space entrepreneurs, or any other creative profession. They can share their insights with the audience, and if just one person leaves feeling inspired, that’s truly remarkable.
On Designyatra helping upcoming talent in India
Certainly, the inspiration will come naturally just by being here. If Designyatra doesn’t inspire young designers, then what will? Designyatra is simply incredible, serving as a fantastic platform for both young and experienced designers. It doesn’t matter if you’re 90 years old or you’re still a foetus – Designyatra is the place to be. It’s an event that can inspire people of all ages to look at things differently, challenge conventional thinking, and generate amazing ideas. And here’s the thing, whether you realize it or not, we are all designers in one way or another.
On your secret sauce behind your success and mantra for the audience here
Each day, I head to work with a sense of excitement, like butterflies in my stomach, because I’m truly passionate about what I do. If I were to share a mantra with young designers, it would be this: “Don’t overthink it; just get to work.” Overthinking can bog you down. What’s most crucial is to be yourself and trust your instincts. Your intuition and gut feeling are valuable guides. Regardless of what others might advise, you always have that inner sense. Follow your instincts and let your subconscious, which has been working behind the scenes, catch up with your conscious mind.
Additionally, collaboration is key. Work with exceptional people, collaborate with those who might seem unexpected partners, because the synergy created by collaborating with like-minded but unexpected individuals often leads to a unique and remarkable outcome. In my world, one plus one typically equals three. So, don’t hesitate to collaborate with people who may seem a bit crazy or unconventional; it can yield extraordinary results.
As homes evolve to reflect a growing focus on wellness, hygiene, and long-term durability, the materials we choose are coming under sharper scrutiny. It’s no longer just about how a space looks, but also about how it performs under daily use. From accidental spills in the kitchen to everyday wear in living spaces, the right materials can make the difference between a home that simply appears clean and one that actively supports healthier living.
Across categories like paints, surfaces, and furniture, there is a clear shift towards solutions that minimise toxins, resist stains, and are easier to maintain. Here’s how thoughtful material choices can help create a home that is both beautiful and better for everyday life.
Cleaner Walls: The Shift to Low-VOC Paints
Walls cover the largest surface area in any home, making them a critical factor in indoor air quality. Traditional paints often contain high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), or chemicals that can release harmful fumes long after application. These emissions are known to contribute to headaches, respiratory irritation, and long-term health concerns, particularly in enclosed spaces.
This has led to a growing preference for eco-friendly paints, which are formulated using natural, non-toxic, and sustainable materials. With low to zero VOC content, these paints significantly reduce indoor air pollution and create a safer environment for families, especially children and the elderly. Water-based formulations are another key advancement, as they limit the use of hazardous solvents without compromising on finish or durability. Brands like Nippon Paint have introduced eco-friendly, child-safe paint ranges that align with this shift towards healthier interiors.
Beyond composition, finish also plays a role in maintenance. Satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss emulsions are increasingly preferred for interiors, as they are less absorbent and more resistant to stains, making walls easier to clean and maintain over time.
Hygienic Surfaces: Where Performance Meets Everyday Living
If walls influence air quality, surfaces, especially in kitchens and children’s bedrooms or play areas, directly impact hygiene. Interestingly, studies have shown that kitchen surfaces can sometimes harbour more bacteria than bathrooms, largely due to frequent exposure to food, moisture, and spills.
This makes the choice of countertop and surface material particularly important. Porous materials can absorb liquids, leading to staining and potential bacterial growth over time. In contrast, non-porous surfaces offer a more hygienic alternative, as they prevent absorption and are easier to clean.
Engineered quartz surfaces have emerged as a strong solution in this space. For instance, offerings from Specta Quartz Surfaces are designed to address both hygiene and durability concerns. Being non-porous and impenetrable, these surfaces do not absorb liquids, making them resistant to common household stains such as tea, coffee, turmeric, or juice. They also offer ease of maintenance, as most spills can be cleaned with a damp cloth, and occasional use of mild soap is enough to restore the surface.
Additionally, they are NSF and GreenGuard certified, proving that these surfaces are safe for direct food contact and do not support the growth of bacteria, mould, or mildew. This is particularly relevant in Indian kitchens, where cooking often involves heavy use of spices, oils, and frequent cleaning.
Smart Furniture Choices
Furniture is another area where material choice plays a crucial role in maintaining a clean and healthy home. Sofas, chairs, and wardrobes are constantly exposed to dust, spills, and daily wear, making durability and stain resistance key considerations. Fabrics like microfiber, leather, and synthetic blends like polyester or olefin are becoming popular for upholstered furniture. These materials are designed to repel liquids, resist scratches, and withstand regular use, making them ideal for households with children or pets.
Brands like Orange Tree offer furniture that combines aesthetic appeal with practical material choices. Laminates from companies like Century Ply are now designed to be stain-resistant and durable, making them suitable for wardrobes, cabinets, and seating. These finishes not only enhance longevity but also reduce the effort required for daily upkeep.
Designing for Long-Term Well-Being
What ties these material choices together is a broader shift in how we think about our homes. Cleanliness is no longer just about routine maintenance, it begins with selecting materials that are inherently easier to maintain, safer to use, and more resistant to wear.
Low-VOC paints contribute to better air quality, non-porous surfaces improve hygiene, and performance-driven furniture materials reduce the stress of everyday living. Together, they create an environment that supports both physical health and peace of mind.
As modern lifestyles become more fast-paced, the demand for homes that are low-maintenance yet high-performing will only continue to grow. By choosing materials that can handle spills, resist stains, and stand the test of time, homeowners can create spaces that are not just visually appealing, but also fundamentally healthier to live in.
