What is a Design Patron?
A Design Patron is someone who opts, along with others, to invest a fixed sum of money in a new design concept. This money is then used to facilitate the process that takes the idea from concept through to production.
Why do you need Design Patrons?
Taking a design from concept to prototype and on to production is an expensive business. By spreading the cost through our Design Patron scheme we can support our most talented up-and-coming British designers and help ensure that great ideas don’t fall by the way side.
What kind of people become Design Patrons?
The Design Patron Scheme is for those who want to get involved in design by investing in an idea or a designer that has inspired them. At New British Design, we want people to invest because they genuinely love the concept and want to see that product succeed commercially.
What do I get in return for being a Design Patron?
In return for your investment, you’ll receive a limited edition, first batch run of the piece you have supported before it is released on to the open market. At the very least you end up with the beautiful piece of furniture that inspired you in the first place. And at the most? Well who knows, you may have just invested in the next design classic.
Do I receive revenue from sales of the piece after the design has gone into production?
No. Your investment is used to get the original idea off the ground and ready to market. In return, you’ll receive a limited edition piece (numbered and stamped) from the first batch; a piece you’ll be able to use and enjoy for years to come. Once the product begins to sell, the designer will benefit from a previously agreed royalty.
How many Design Patron do you need for each piece?
The number of Design Patron’s required varies from piece to piece simply because the processes required to get the piece made will also vary. For more information see our website.
How much do I need to invest to become a Design Patron?
An important part of the Design Patron concept is that entry-level investment (starting from £200 upwards) is all that is required to become a Design Patron. By keeping the investment sums low we aim to give anyone who is passionate about design an opportunity to join the scheme.
Can I be a multiple Design Patron for a single piece?
If you really love a particular design and would benefit from multiples of this design, then there is no reason why you shouldn't! There is no discount for multiple investors however, just a bigger share of satisfaction.
What happens if there isn't enough Design Patron for a piece?
An investment deadline is set for each potential prototype. During that period, we’ll work hard to ensure that enough Design Patrons are found to get the product off the ground. If, despite our efforts, there are not enough investors after the deadline has passed, the piece is removed and all the money collected is refunded in full. Some designs that haven’t reached the value required may be reintroduced at a later date. Subscribe to our newsletter to be kept informed about all new designs added to the Design Patron scheme.
I'm a furniture / product designer and would like my work to be considered by New British Design for the Design Patron scheme?
Unfortunately due to demand, we cannot guarantee we’ll be able to respond directly to all design submissions. But if you think you’ve got what it takes to become part of the New British Design featured designer, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact Hannah Huggins for information about how to become a featured designer.
Who decides what pieces will be featured?
We do. An enormous amount of consideration goes in to selecting what we believe are the very best and commercially viable ideas. Once an idea has been selected and submitted, it is up to our Design Patrons to get inspired and make it happen. The level of attention the product receives through the patron scheme is an essential indication of the initial popularity of the product and its potential comercially.
|
