Derek Chen

Instagram: @councildesign

Twitter: @sfderek

Derek is the founder and creative force behind Council, a furniture brand that aims to refresh and expand on the US’s position in international design. Council's mission is to develop new iconic pieces, on par with the iconic pieces of the mid-century, and contribute to the reestablishment of an American design identity. Council has been the recipient of multiple publications and awards, including a Wallpaper Design Award for best seating, and ICFF Editors Awards for both Furniture and for Outdoor.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?: I'm most content when surfing, but not from the actual "surfing" part. The best part of surfing for me is stepping off the earth and putting myself in the control of the ocean, disconnecting from terrestrial concerns.

Which living person do you most admire?: Michelle Obama (her husband's pretty cool too). The more you achieve, and the more power you're given, the more challenging it can be to live close to your ideals.

What is your greatest extravagance?: I have an old Porsche that I bought early in my (previous) career as a management consultant. I don't know if it qualifies as an "extravagance" though, because it doesn't run.

What is your current state of mind?: Openness. I think there can be fear and doubt when you find yourself in a situation like this, with so much thrown into question. But given that we're all experiencing this together, and we all know that there will be changes, I find myself ready for wherever this takes us.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?: I think Leadership is the most misinterpreted virtue. I don't think it's overrated at all, but I think we often identify our leaders by the wrong qualities.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?: I'm a person of few words. I don't think I overuse any of them.

Which talent would you most like to have?: Parkour

What do you consider your greatest achievement?: 20 years ago I realized I don't ever have to work with someone I don't like, and I haven't broken that rule.

Where would you most like to live?: I love living in Oakland, if I have to choose one place. It has community, and it's close to the ocean, the mountains, and culture. However I can't wait to travel again.

What is your favorite occupation?: Any kind of creating: music, cooking, gardening, tinkering... Taking something out of your imagination and putting it into the physical world.