Mac Collins is a young designer whose work is characterized by strong narratives and a rich material culture. Based in the north of England, he is the first recipient of the Ralph Saltzman Prize awarded by the Design Museum in London. His furniture pieces, most notably the Iklwa chair, are bold, intuitive and a joyful celebration of typically peripheral stories.

Nana Biamah-Ofosu: Your research at Harewood House in West Yorkshire earlier this year explored the relationship between objects, furniture, Empire and transatlantic slavery. Can you tell us about this project?

Mac Collins: The house has a difficult history which, while not hidden, is not entirely visible. I was interested in the Chippendale mahogany furniture collection in the games room which was made from timber sourced from ...