Dirk Wynants ! (9/5/1964) – Tools for togetherness
Meeting Dirk Wynants of Extremis in 2013 has had a big impact on my vision of design. I admire Dirk, because he unites a unique combination of innovation, creativity and solid material knowledge. You can see in every Extremis design that the qualities and limitations of the chosen materials were taken into account down to the smallest detail.
Photo: © Zinkinfo Beneluxs
Dirk consciously chooses products with a long life span. This concern for sustainability influences each of his design decisions. The right material for the right application ensures that a product not only lasts longer, but that less material is wasted in its production, and that less finishing is needed that could be harmful to the environment (such as certain varnishes or lacquers). Why give galvanized steel an extra layer of paint if that is just an extra cost and not a quality improvement?
Photo: © Zinkinfo Beneluxs
In addition, he also attaches great importance to ‘form durability’. A typical thread running through his designs is the emphasis on ‘togetherness’. Furniture is just furniture, more important is the question how you can design a table or chair that increases the personal contact between people.
Photo: © Zinkinfo Beneluxs
Whether it is furniture or buildings, the message is actually identical: let’s use materials sustainably and not be led by status design. Authenticity and honesty should be the basis for every designer.
Can we dream for a moment?
Photo: © Zinkinfo Beneluxs
If you want to know more about Dirk, visit www.extremis.com or check out the Zinkinfo Benelux – InfoZinc Benelux website.
About the Author:
Bruno Dursin – Managing Director at Believe in Steel. Bruno has more than 30 years of experience in promoting steel & steel solutions. His clients benefit from his extensive network within the building industry.
