Paul manages the Umbra design team and translates developing design trends into practical and useful products. Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, Paul graduated from George Brown College in 1974 with a degree in Graphic Design. Paul is a design pioneer in the housewares industry.

Quote: "We are always trying to explore new material and technology. When the needs of contemporary people are researched and successfully realized, this becomes what we call good design." Using this philosophy, he has created numerous successful designs, as well as managed diverse internal and external design teams.

1. What are some of the Umbra products you designed? What is your specialty/expertise? What are you currently working on?

I have been fortunate in that being the co-founder in charge of design and creative at Umbra, I've been involved in the design and development of virtually every product. Notable are my multi-frames which really changed the look of the frame industry. I also have a trash container in the permanent collection of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

2. What are some of the blogs/books/magazines that you read for inspiration?

• Architectural Digest
• Elle Decor
• Cool Hunting

3. Out of all Umbra designs, what are some of your favourite products? What do you like about the product?

• CRUNCH cans- love the flexibility
• DOCUMENT frame- totally versatile framing idea
• TUG Paper Towel Holder- sculptural but functional