Answers with Nolen Niu

Answer 1

Congrats on "Framework" and being selected to judge the first ever furniture design competition series on TV! So are we talking a "Top Chef" or "Project Runway" type show but with furniture?

Much appreciated thanks! Yes, it's both in the sense that you get to see these makers design and build a piece of furniture in 24 hours by hand. The biggest difference is we're all visually familiar with furniture and don't have to taste or have a particular body type to know if we like it or not.

Answer 2

The series follows 13 aspiring furniture designers over the course of 10 weeks as they compete in a series of challenges. What's at stake for the contestants?

In my opinion, beyond the $100,000 prize, $20,000 from Ace Hardware and the feature at CB2; it's the exposure be it positive or negative. With the internet, everything becomes available online the moment the show airs. So if you don't perform or finish in time, know that it will end up on the web for everyone to see.

Answer 3

What are some of the challenges the contestants will have to face on "Framework"?

One of the biggest challenges will be the fatigue that will set in both mentally and physically as they move further along in the competition. They are basically building for 24-hours, off to elimination, then right back at it again. It's back to back to back design, build, and eliminate until the winner is chosen.

Answer 4

As one of the judges on the show, the fate of the contestants is in your hands. Do you feel a lot of pressure knowing 13 designers' hopes and dreams rely on you?

The pressure for me, actually, was more about making the right decision at elimination; and awarding the best piece based on the challenge criteria. That's the hardest part.

Answer 5

How are the contestants eliminated?

Every challenge has very specific design and build criteria that have to be met. If they aren't satisfied and the fit and finish of the piece isn't up to par, then those contestants become candidates for elimination by myself (the design expert), Common (the tastemaker and voice of the consumer) and Brandon Gore (the build expert).

Answer 6

What quality or attribute will the winning designer have that will set them apart from the rest of the contestants?

They will have to be extremely efficient in their design and build process while managing their time wisely.

Answer 7

Alright, enough about the contestants -- let's talk about you! You're an American Industrial Designer internationally recognized for your holistic approach to design and clean, provocative aesthetics. What is it about this style that inspires you?

I'm a minimalist at heart and enjoy forms that evoke cleanliness and simplicity. I hate clutter and don't care for ornate or decorative trinkets.

Answer 8

What's unique about your furniture?

My collection is a blend of American comfort with European inspired aesthetics. People are always surprised by how comfortable my pieces are because visually they look very rigid.

Answer 9

Did you always know you wanted to be a furniture designer?

No, I didn't become inspired to design furniture until I took a summer design course in Italy. That's when I was exposed to furniture design and knew that was the path I wanted to pursue.

Answer 10

Why furniture?

Furniture is with us from the crib we are born in to the casket where we are laid to rest. It's pivotal in creating the right ambiance at a restaurant or club and represents our persona at home. It's the social interact that occurs with furniture that I truly enjoy the most.