A Life Outside with Adam Goodrum

 

 

As one of our favourite collaborators, award-winning designer Adam Goodrum has cultivated a deep knowledge around creating outdoor furniture. This expertise has been profoundly influenced by experiences in nature – BMX riding, surfing and the beautiful landscapes of Western Australia.

What comes to mind when you think of A Life Outside?

As someone who loves the outdoors, I deeply value the connection between life and nature. I’ve been fortunate to live along the coast, where the ocean has always played a significant part in my life. Growing up, I cherished exploring sand dunes and bushland and spending as much time as possible in the water.

What is your intention/objective when designing outdoor furniture?

My goal when designing outdoor furniture is to help create environments that are both beautiful and functional. Recently, there’s been a notable shift towards valuing outdoor spaces as thoughtfully as we do interiors. Today, outdoor furniture is designed with as much care as indoor pieces, blending aesthetics and comfort. In Australia, where we often spend half the year outdoors, it’s essential that these spaces feel inviting and work harmoniously with the natural environment.

Could you share your process for designing outdoor furniture?

Having collaborated with Tait for many years, I feel I have an understanding and appreciation of their production capabilities and aesthetic. Tait furniture is of the highest quality, simple but not simplistic and sometimes with an aesthetic that touches on Australian nostalgia. I aim to create functional, robust pieces that feel approachable and useful in everyday life, serving multiple applications without compromising on design. I endeavour to create furniture with a language to enhance a space, offering personality without being overpowering.

How have the great Australian outdoors influenced you as a designer?

Australia’s harsh environment requires careful attention to durability, with designs that can withstand intense sun and corrosion. Unlike other design-rich cultures, Australia offers a unique freedom to explore new ideas without the constraints of tradition like Italian or Scandinavian design. I find that Australian design, much like its people, embodies a relaxed yet resilient spirit, often with a touch of humour.

What does sustainability mean to you?

Sustainability is central to my design philosophy – it’s not just an afterthought. Working with Tait, I value their full commitment to 100% Australian made in their incredible Melbourne factory, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to the majority of Australian furniture that is imported. Their sustainable practices include recycling material scraps, using aluminium with up to 70% recycled content, and relying heavily on solar power. This holistic approach to sustainability is a core part of their business model.

Quick 6

Most inspiring outdoor space?
– The Botanical Gardens in NSW. It’s remarkable to have such a beautiful green space in the heart of the city, especially with the stunning backdrop of the Sydney Opera House and harbour.
– The Mesa Verde ancient dwellings carved into cliffs in Colorado, which I discovered during childhood. They exemplified harmony with nature and left a lasting impression on me.

Favourite regular outdoor hangout?
Maroubra Beach. I spend as much time as possible surfing and enjoying the ocean.

Favourite outdoor sculpture/piece of art?
The wave sculpture by Santiago Calatrava, which beautifully captures the movement of water.

Must-see Australian landscape?
Every part of Australia is incredible, but I particularly love Western Australia: Ningaloo Reef, Elephants Rocks near Denmark, Pemberton Forest with its incredible Karri Trees

What do you love about A Life Outside?
Being immersed in nature—walking barefoot, listening to the ocean and birds, and wandering through the bush.

Favourite Tait piece?
I love Trent Jansen’s Tidal Chair and I’m proud of our recent Swing Chair.

Published 11 November 2024
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