It's all about people: Patrick De Grande
What do Design, Dadaism and Dishwasher Tetris have in common?
Heyho, here we are with another issue of our MEET US series. This time we are featuring Patrick De Grande - epda Board Member for Communication. Patrick is a truly inspiring person - Central Midfielder and Creative Farmer at Quatre Mains:
1. Highlight of being a member of EPDA?
"Describe a key experience or moment of truth you experienced as a member of the EPDA community"
“A key moment as a member of the EPDA was realizing how deeply the community fosters not just professional growth, but personal connection. Since joining in 2007, the spirit of sharing, friendship, love, and togetherness has been invaluable — both for me and for my agency. EPDA isn’t just a network; it’s a community that inspires and elevates us.”
2. Design Inspiration?
"Who is your biggest reference or inspiration in design?"
“I’m a man of many colors, inspired by the bold spirit of Dadaism, the vibrant energy of Pop Art, and the dynamic works of contemporary mixed media artists like Tomokazu Matsuyama. For me, art and artists are the true influencers of daily life — constantly fueling my creative process and perspective in design.”
3. Favorite Creative Tool or Design Gadget?
"What is your “can’t live without it – thing” when it comes to design? Be it software, technical device, design trash .."
“My ultimate creative tool is my team — I can’t live without their energy, positivity, and the sunshine they bring to our work. Surrounded by this spirit, and together with my partner in life and creativity, we find inspiration in the unexpected: collecting and reimagining things others throw away. That’s where the real magic often begins.”
4. Fun Fact?
"Share a fun fact about yourself that most people don't know."
“Here’s something most people don’t know: I’m the unofficial ‘Dishwasher Tetris Champion’ at the office. I take great pride in fitting every mug, plate, and spoon like it’s a puzzle. Oddly enough, it’s a lot like my creative process — taking chaotic, mismatched ideas and turning them into something that just… fits (and looks great too).”
5. Hobby or Interest?
"What are some of your favorite hobbies or interests outside of design?”
“I don’t really have hobbies in the traditional sense. I see my whole passage on this earth as one big, fascinating hobby. Every day brings the chance to meet someone new, learn something unexpected, and see the world through a different lens — and that, to me, is the most inspiring pastime of all.”
6. What is your favourite colour combination and why?
“Blue-black, without a doubt — I owe that to my lifelong club love. Football is the most important side issue in life. As Johan Cruyff said, ‘Football is simple, but the hardest thing there is, is playing simple football.’ That philosophy mirrors design: the magic is in making the complex feel effortless. ;-) In the end, it’s the power of “united colors” — on the field and in life — that has deeply influenced my love for design.”
Learn more about Patrick and his team at Quatre Mains!
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