Stockholm Design Talks presented British designer Tom Dixon during Stockholm Furniture Fair 2016, where he shared insights into his unconventional path through the design world under the provocative title

“Design and how not to do it.”

Tom Dixon (b. 1959, Tunisia) is one of Britain’s most influential designers, known for his maverick approach and industrial aesthetic. A self-taught designer who discovered his craft after a motorcycle accident led him to learn welding, Dixon transformed salvaged materials into sculptural furniture that caught international attention in the 1980s.

His breakthrough came with the S Chair, spotted by Giulio Cappellini and later acquired by MoMA for its permanent collection. Dixon served as Creative Director at Habitat from 1998–2008, where he revitalized the brand while maintaining Terence Conran’s vision of accessible modern design.

In 2002, Dixon launched his eponymous brand from London, now operating in 90 countries with products spanning lighting, furniture, and accessories. His iconic designs include the Mirror Ball lamp (2003), Copper Shade (2005), and Beat Lights (2007)—all pioneering the use of vacuum metallization in lighting design.

Dixon was appointed OBE in 2001 for services to British design, holds Honorary Doctorates from Birmingham City University and University of the Arts London, and was made CBE in the 2025 New Year Honours. His work is held in collections including the V&A Museum, MoMA New York, and Vitra Design Museum.

Moderator: Marcus Hartwall, VD Houzz Nordics