Pottinger + Cole is a dynamic, creative practice, with a multi-disciplinary approach, working on projects including furniture, lighting and product design.
They employ a materials- and process-focused design approach to create thoughtful, refined objects and their work is produced in a range of materials, utilising production techniques from the hand-made to digital technologies. They hold a strong emphasis on function combined with a considered and appropriate use of materials.
Magi is a practical solution for the storage of magazines. Its compact proportions and integral handle, allow it to be easily moved and placed against any wall or beside a chair or sofa.
The hallway bench is both a bench and storage facility, designed to primarily function in the hallway. A point at which bags, shoes and keys can be stored and a convenient place to perch whilst changing shoes.
The substantially proportioned Polymer clock is made from plaster polymer using a casting process to produce the clock face with raised and embossed digits. The hand casting technique means that no two clocks are exactly the same.
The Vacc tray explores the practical issues presented when picking up and carrying a tray. The integral handles allow the trays to interlock when stacked and the 3mm birch ply-wood insert gives the tray its rigidity.
Since forming their company in 2005, Wayne Pottinger and Nathalie Cole’s work has become widely known for its quirky, often humorous designs. Their Twiggi coat stand with angles of which might imply 1960s photo-shoots, but could equally reference the branch of a tree has attracted the majority of press attention, but Pottinger + Cole’s work can primarily be defined by strong silhouettes.
In 2008 they were recipients of the Craft Council Development Award which they invested in some significant purchases in order to advance the work of their studio.
Based in Wolverhampton, Pottinger + Cole mostly design and prototype forms, while the making side is contracted out to manufacturers. Luckily for them the West Midlands has fabricators galore, some within only ten miles of the studio. So whether they choose to work with metal, wood or plastics, there are more than enough skilled hands nearby to realise these forms.
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