James Harrison
Starting with a love for art at school, James Harrison built a career in industrial design that spans decades, global markets, and award-winning innovationsJames’ creative journey began at Humphrey Perkins, where Art was his favourite subject. Encouraged by his teacher, James explored everything from t-shirt printing to self-portraits, laying the foundation for a future in design.
After leaving Humphrey Perkins, James continued his education at Rawlins Community College before completing a foundation course in Art and Design at Loughborough College of Art. He then went on to study Industrial Design at Manchester Polytechnic.
Following his degree, James took a placement in Stuttgart, Germany, where he began designing products such as lighting, sports equipment, and furniture. He later worked as a Senior Designer in Pforzheim, creating watches, telephones, and lab equipment. In 1996, he co-founded z.B. Designers GbR in Darmstadt, where he continues to work today as a Senior Industrial Designer.
Over nearly 30 years, James has worked across a wide range of design areas — from toothbrushes and pens to electronic equipment and interior architecture. His process involves close collaboration with clients, sketching and ideation, 3D modelling, and prototyping. His work has earned over 14 German design awards and reached global markets!
James’s proudest achievements include raising his two children and designing products that have had a lasting impact — including a watch for Junghans and toothbrushes used by millions worldwide. Looking ahead, he hopes to write a book about the design process from start to finish.
James’s story is a great example of how early creative encouragement and hands-on learning can spark a lifelong passion and successful career in design.
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