Designer match

Sophie Tatlow and Bruce Slorach, founders of Deuce Design, discuss the highs and lows of studio life.

How did you get into the design industry?

Sophie: A couple of things happened simultaneously. I was studying object design but
wanted to be writing, then I was handed a freelance writing project. My first real job was as a contract writer, covering food and bar reviews for an international publication.

Bruce: After studying fine arts, painting and print making I immediately started a design studio producing one off textiles and graphic art fashion. I was always interested in graphic design. Not counting the businesses that I've owned, I've only ever had one real job as head designer at Mambo, which I did for five years before setting up Deuce Design.

When/where did you first meet?

Sophie: We met in Melbourne when I was 19 years old and I used to wear Bruce's clothing
label. Then we met again more than 10 years later in Sydney. We started having a relationship and then started working together. From there we decided to go into business together.

Bruce: We met through mutual friend, when I worked at Mambo. Sophie first did freelance writing on a project by project basis, but before we knew it she was running the studio.

What were your first impressions of each other?

Sophie: Immediately, I knew he was honest, different and also passionate about art and design. We met each other (sort of) a few times over 12 years, so I've got a few first impressions. I thought he was unique -- in a good way.

Bruce: Love at first site!

Does the other person have any annoying habits?

Sophie: Bruce's most annoying habit is also one of his best qualities. Don't they say the thing you like about someone is also the thing that is the most annoying? Bruce is a very considered and thoughtful person. He thinks everything through to the tiniest detail. Sometimes the tiny details take the longest time. Try explaining that to a client. However the results speak for themselves. He's always saying to me: "Good things take time."

Bruce: Always being right.

Do you ever disagree?

Sophie: Yes, often. We have some amazing flash debates. But they're fast and furious and done and dusted in minutes. Someone once told me that a certain amount of creative friction could be great for a project or job. It provokes the creator to push the concept to the next level.

Bruce: Not for long.

How do you approach the task of collaborating jointly?

Sophie: Well, opposites attract. We have very different skills and respect the other person's opinion. I've never known anyone who can absorb so much design information as Bruce. He is like a design wikipedia without the bullshit. We're honest with each other and probably harder on each other than anyone else in the studio. In a nutshell, respect and honesty.

Bruce: We work very differently; we complement each other when we pass things back and forth. Sophie will get to the essence quickly and then let me take over the visual expression. Then we agree on the tone and intent and push it further. If you're too like-minded it would never work.

What are your respective strengths/weaknesses?

Sophie: Looking at things differently. One of us will always see the better side of a bad situation. I think Bruce's biggest strength is his ability to analyse any situation or project and improve on it, and his attention to detail is incredible. My strength is my weakness. I'm like Speedy Gonzalez. If I have to, I can write copy lines or organise something very quickly.
 
Bruce: We're both obsessed with details. Fortunately they are different details. Sophie's into words and I'm into pictures.

What frustrates you about working in design?

Sophie: Sometimes I think it's an oxymoron trying to run a creative business and make money. Producing a great looking project and breaking even can be frustrating. And clients sometimes have unrealistic expectations with time frames.

Bruce: That real experience doesn't hold much sway these days.

Main challenges in your day job?

Sophie: Budgets and timing. I manage the business and make sure that we stay afloat. Sometimes I have to make decisions that aren't in my nature.

Bruce: Keeping everyone well fed.

Where do you look for inspiration?

Sophie: Other people. Anyone with a genuine passion or someone who excels at something can be a fantastic inspiration. I find it takes a lot of determination and conviction to succeed at anything and I love to hear people's stories.

Bruce: I've always been obsessed by Japan. I've been there more than two dozen times.

Career highlights?

Sophie: Being awarded the Sydney Theatre Company's work was fantastic. The studio was able to push the boundaries and give STC a brochure and a new identity that really reflected their vision and energy. I guess writing a novel for my masters degree -- it was like climbing a word mountain and taught me a lot about patience and process.

Bruce: Sydney Theatre Company, Water Police Park and Ballast Point Park. And of course working with lots of great passionate people. And we won the Think Brick Award a few months ago.

How do you stay sane?

Sophie: Playing a tough game of squash is one of my favourite releases. Nothing like getting sweaty, swearing and smashing a ball against a wall. Fortunately very few people can see me in action. But, my real key to sanity is my son. He can wipe away a stressful day in less than three seconds.

Bruce: Riding bikes, hiking, swimming in the ocean basically anything that gets me out of the usual and of course spending time with our children.

Any mentors?

Sophie: Yes, a good friend. She's an author and 20 years older than I am. She seems to have a lot of life's answers and questions and she reminds me not to sweat the small stuff.

Bruce: When I first started I had lots of great mentors, Dare Jennings from Mambo, ten years ago. As I get older I feel more like a mentor and less of a mentee.