2018 marks the fifth anniversary of the Launch Pad at WantedDesign Manhattan. The Launch Pad is a platform for emerging designers who wish to make connections with manufacturers and retailers during NYCxDESIGN, New York’s celebration of global design. Each year, a group of industry professionals reviews the exhibited work to select a Best of Launch Pad prize. Since 2014, the Launch Pad has exhibited over 100 designers from dozens of countries and over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing the stories of some of the designers who have participated in years past and the manufacturers who’ve discovered them. As a reminder, the 2018 Launch Pad applications are due January 31, 2018. Apply here . (If you submitted your work to the Launch Pad prior to December 30, 2017, please re-apply due to a computer glitch.)

Danielle Trofe Design is a Brooklyn-based design studio that promotes a function-forward, sustainable and socially responsible approach to furniture and lighting design. By harnessing innovative technologies and material sciences to create functional and accessible design, Danielle aims to encourage a departure from conventional materials and production techniques in search of long-term, sustainable solutions.

Q: Which year did you present at WantedDesign? Did you make connections with brands and fellow designers?
I exhibited concept products at the Launch Pad in 2013 and 2014. I was able to make great press connections and friends within the design community, while having the rare opportunity to show my products to top designers and brands in personal conversation settings. In 2017, at WantedDesign Brooklyn, the MushLume lighting was exhibited with Ecovative Design.

Q: How has your work evolved since you shared your work at WantedDesign? Is it now in production? If so, with whom?
Since launching the MushLume Lighting Collection during WantedDesign 2014, I’ve expanded and evolved the line, reaching commercial project adoption. My studio has grown to become a brand and fabrication studio as well as working with other prominent brands to produce the lighting collection.

Q: What advice do you have for emerging designers who will be showing at the Launch Pad in 2018 and beyond?
Amazing opportunities can come from showing your work at WantedDesign’s Launch Pad, from engaging with the press, participants and attendees to the unique exposure that this venue brings in terms of presenting product face-to-face with world-famous design brand representatives and design critics in an intimate and personal environment.

Q: Where can people learn more about you and your work?
www.Danielletrofe.com

Danielle’s lighting is also available at the Industry City Store by WantedDesign at 274 36th Street in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

Sponsored by Design Milk and Design Within Reach.