Sylvain Willenz

Sylvain Willenz was born in Brussels in 1978. He always had a fascination with graphic design, and, after finishing school, decided to be a cartoonist. However, his desire to see his work become a reality led him to become a product designer. He studied MA Design Products at the Royal College of Art in London, graduating in 2003. Since opening his design studio in 2004, Willenz has gained notability around the world, recognised for his strong yet simple graphic aesthetic.

From his office, Sylvain Willenz leads a small team to develop timeless pieces. Although usually specialising in lighting and furniture design, Willenz also uses his graphic design expertise to create unique textiles and prints. He has worked with established clients and worldwide brands including Established & Sons, Muuto, and Hay. Throughout his career, Sylvain Willenz has gained a number of notable accolades, including the iF Awards and Red Dot Best of the Best Awards. In 2009, he was named Belgian Designer of the Year.

“I like to give my designs a sort of dejà-vu feeling, a sort of familiarity combined with elements of newness, which I believe makes a long-lasting and mass appealing design.” - Sylvain Willenz