London-based studio, RALLI Design, was founded by siblings Louis (BA Product Design at Central Saint Martins) and Sophie Ralli (BA Ceramic Design Central Saint Martins) in 2009. The studio’s ceramic products are currently available to buy in not just a shop. We caught up with Louis…
What’s your fondest memory from your time at UAL?
A second year trip to Milan; visiting all of the amazing factories and design studios was really inspiring.How did your company come about?
We’re both fascinated by manufacturing methods and how everyday objects are made. We’re also interested in the solutions people come up with to make the most of their small living spaces – such as space-saving furniture. After I graduated from Central Saint Martins we decided to show a couple of our own furniture prototypes at the Milan Furniture Fair in the Salone Satellite. When Sophie graduated the following year, we took two products (Ralli Tea Set and Shuffle Tidy) from her degree show and put them into production. We then developed a series of ceramic products to create our first homeware collection.Who or what inspires you?
If I had to pick one designer it would be Dieter Rams and his ten principles for good design.
What was the inspiration behind your latest collection?
The products encapsulate our ethos of ‘less clutter, more beauty’ – a nod to Mies van der Rohe’s famous quote.What purchase have you currently got your eye on?
The last time I visited not just a shop I saw these bold, geometric bags by Terracotta Row cleverly made with reclaimed materials.Where is your most inspiring place in London?
Definitely the V&A in South Kensington.
What advice would you give current students hoping to start their own business?
Get advice from as many industry professionals as possible, it will surprise you how helpful people can be.
What’s next for your brand?
We are currently developing our next range of homeware.