In Conversation With Lee Broom

A creator of avant garde masterpieces, the multi-award winning British designer redefines classical techniques and transforms traditional materials into edgy, modern designs

- Delilah Rodrigues

“Hello, it’s Lee speaking! How are you? It’s very good to speak to you,” says a warm, chirpy voice with a distinctly British accent, at the other end of the call. I felt an instant comfort, and a sense of how humble and spirited Lee Broom, one of UK’s leading product designers, is. During our conversation, I realised that I have a lot to learn from this gentleman. The most important insight was “Do your own thing”, a mantra Lee picked from legendary designer Vivienne Westwood, someone he admires immensely.

Having dabbled in theatre since he was a child, it’s evident that Lee has a creative bent of mind and a penchant for artistic pursuits. He reveals, “I always wanted to be an actor. I attended theatre school from the age of seven and was a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company at the age of nine.” His father also played a crucial role, acting as catalyst to reinforce his artistic side. “Dad wasn’t a professional artist, but he was a keen draftsman. He sat me in my bedroom in the evenings and taught me how to draw, sketch and paint.”