SCOTT RICHLER AND GABRIEL KAKON

Founders of Gabriel Scott​

Q: Who are Gabriel Kakon and Scott Richler? Can you tell us about your background?

Gabriel: I studied industrial design and then architecture in Montreal and went on to work in high-end residential architecture. Scott and I are brothers-in-law – he is married to my older sister. 

We set up Gabriel Scott in 2012 and I’m based at our studio in Montreal which is home to our design and manufacturing processes. Scott’s a master in product development and also has a background in jewelry design. My expertise is in brand exposure and marketing. What we do is very collaborative.

Scott: I married Gabriel’s sister and together we started the fashion and jewelry brand Jennifer Scott. But having studied architecture, I wanted to return to that and began designing custom pieces of furniture for clients. Joining forces with Gabriel was very organic – we were both drawn to the same industry and share the same aesthetic and interests. I’m now based in London where we recently opened our European flagship showroom in Mayfair (in September 2019).

Q: How was the idea of your brand Gabriel Scott born? Tell us about this alliance.

Gabriel:  Scott and I had both been working in residential architecture and would often choose to design furniture pieces to best fit certain projects. This soon became a full-time project that led to the start of Gabriel Scott. An early commission for a custom fixture followed and quickly inspired a full collection of various lighting items that range from pendants, to wall sconces and desk lamps.

Scott:  Having been exposed to similar references in aesthetics and design, along with our common architectural background, we had a distinct compatibility from the get-go. We launched a collection at ICFF in New York which was risky, but fortunately people loved the pieces and the price points. More shows led to further growth and we opened our New York showroom in 2014 in downtown Manhattan.

Q: How would you describe your furniture and lighting style?

Scott:  Our inspiration comes from geometry, nature and chemistry. I explore things from a material perspective or geometry. I’m interested in what more we can do with glass and how it can be combined with metal. Right now, it’s about very simple fixtures and stripping it back. Paying attention to good design and high craftsmanship. My interest in jewellery brings out the delicate side to our work.

Q: Gabriel Scott has collaborated with renowned brands like Cartier and Bar Basso. Can you tell us about your experience?

Scott: To celebrate Bar Basso’s 51st birthday in Milan, we created a tailored-made light installation with our Welles Glass Long Chandelier.  Working closely with bar owner Maurizio Stocchetto, we decided to reference the famous Italian Negroni cocktail, using Campari-coloured glass for a glass fixture which sits in the window of the Bar. 

The installation hangs as an almost revolutionary act, as it is the first time, since 1967, that new elements have been added to the bar’s interior.

Q: Do you have any upcoming projects/projects we can keep an eye out for?

Scott: Our expansion into the UK and Europe allows us to further cement our relationships with existing clients on this side of the world and allow for closer collaboration within the design community here. From London we can access a lot of the main design and specification companies and it also provides great links to the market in the Middle East and elsewhere in Europe. 

Gabriel: As we grow our business, we have been working tirelessly to ensure a seamless client experience.

From access to showroom presentations, to complete sample kits, as well as customized drawings, complete with a timely delivery on all orders – we have been focused on providing an impeccable experience from start to finish, and will continue to do so.