Anthony Spon-Smith is a designer and the creative director and co-owner of renowned furniture company Coco Republic. He describes himself as energetic, focused and design-obsessed, and he brings that energy and enthusiasm to every piece he crafts.
Anthony Spon-Smith says most of his design knowledge has evolved through 20 years of industry experience. “I know what is possible construction-wise through dealing with manufacturing for a long time and I try to align that with the styles I want,” he explains. This talented designer is winning international accolades, even catching the eye of Oprah. Anthony and his Prado collection, designed exclusively for Restoration Hardware in the US, was recently featured on her show.
Anthony completed an economics degree after school, followed by industrial design. After working in the advertising industry, he joined his father’s business, which was then Town and Country Living. The business has gone from strength to strength, growing from a couple of showrooms to 16-plus, as well as interior design firms in each state, property styling teams and a design school. “Personally, I’ve learnt a lot through that growth, making many mistakes along the way and having the opportunity to experience the industry around the world through plenty of travel,” he says.
Anthony’s designs are insightful, fluid and progressive. “I wouldn’t say I have a style, or if I did it would be hard to semantically describe,” he says. “My goal is not to be boxed into a particular look.”
Anthony is a “massive greenie”; environmental consciousness is a key part of who he is. “All pieces use approved sustainable timbers and I ensure all my manufacturers comply with international environmental standards that are increasingly becoming extensive, which is good news,” he says.
His favourite three pieces are the Malmo Collection (outdoor), Atelier Sofa, and Amsterdam Bar Cabinet (collection). When thinking colours, textures and furniture pieces that inspire, Anthony looks beyond the obvious. “I have so many; for me it’s all about the juxtaposition of material. Tonal, natural leathers, bouclé fabrics and rustic timbers are among my favourite,” he reveals.
As a designer, perhaps more than anything, Anthony loves the creative journey. “The process of having an idea or vision and following it all the way through, sometimes for 18 months, is super exciting; seeing the end result is like Christmas,” he says.
Anthony has a core belief that in work and life, self assurance is key. “Design is not a democracy. There has to be one vision. Be confident and sure about what you want,” he says.