Coco Flip is a multidisciplinary design studio based in Melbourne. Established by Kate Stokes in 2010, Coco Flip undertakes projects within the creative fields of furniture, interior, and graphic design…Coco Flip endeavours to create products and experiences that provoke thought and conversation, engaging its audiences and encouraging an escape from the every day. Exerted from coco flip website.
I was thrilled to visit Stokes in her studio space and chat with her about the lovely Mr. Cooper light as well as what makes her tick.
1. What was the inspiration behind the Mr. Cooper concept?
The idea for Mr. Cooper was born on Kate’s trip to New York for an internship with Rich Brilliant and Willing. Gentlemen in three-piece suits, antique street grates, old telephones and inventors informed the research and development process.
“I wanted the light to be simple, true to the material and refined.”
2. Is the pen mightier than the computer?
“Maybe not mightier but the pen is freer than the computer. I prefer to start with the pen and finish with the computer.”
3. Does working in Melbourne influence/ enhance your work?
“Sure it does, yes…the Melbourne design community is large and supportive. There is a critical mass of like minded people who are generous with their knowledge.”
4. Who is someone that you would like to collaborate with in the future?
Stokes expressed an eagerness to collaborate with people and firms who share her love of materials and processes. Not one to limit herself, Stokes would be open to working on any project that would allow her to explore “lagom” a Swedish word translating roughly to ‘not too much, and not too little’.
“Any collaboration that allowed me to work in a new material or master a new process would be great. Particularly over seas collaborations can be the best because there are two different cultures, markets and ways of thinking informing the work.”
5. What experiences/ projects are you looking forward to?
“Developing work with the help of my intern Tom and launching new products, and hopefully participating in the London Design Festival in September.”
In Collingwood you can view Coco flip designs at www.tongueandgroove.com.au.
Article by Georgina Lewis
