Jochem Galama >>

Industrial Design Engineer Jochem Galama >>

Jochem Galama studied Industrial Design Engineering at the Delft University of Technology in the 1990s. This was a thorough education covering every facet of the design process, production techniques and materials. Building on this solid basis Galama has developed into a designer with an eye for what appeals to customers. “I know how important it is for a designer to make a product that appeals to its users in more ways than simply fulfilling functi-onal expectations. A design that interacts with users’ emotional, social or cultural world deepens its appeal.” This may seem a commonplace but Galama doesn’t hesitate to underline its importance for his designs. “If you keep these diverse levels in mind while designing you can make a product that’s more interesting. You can give your designs additional value.”Early on in his career Galama discovered he had a special talent for designing chairs. Perhaps one of the most difficult disciplines in which to create an original design because sitting comfort must not be compromised at all. “Function is paramount even though you’re looking to give a chair more appealing features. But it soon became clear that I was good at combining both aspects.” Together with Val-Eur Galama has taken the classic look of cane and rattan furniture to a higher plane. Using weatherproof woven vinyl, his designs for the Milano and Barcelona set a trend with a modern take on the classic rattan chairs. “This is outdoor sitting comfort at its most luxurious combined with a modern appearance. Every aspect expresses Val-Eur’s approach to comfort and quality. The fibres used are of the best quality available. The high level of comfort is especially evi- dent in the opulent forms of the Barcelona series which has a large seat and wide armrests. Even in a simple chair like the Ramblas extra luxury is suggested by using a special fibre that’s twisted to look like high-quality rope. The result is stunningly chic.”