Eye for design: Paul Kostromin

Paul Kostromin says practical can become boring. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Paul Kostromin and partners Annette and Cal Fraser started Askew in 1991, in Parnell. Four stores on, they're still working on the philosophy: to import and sell good design-based products unique to Askew but still having an element of fun and colour. Before Askew, Kostromin didn't give up the day job in architecture in Sydney for his nights as a musician. "Design and music have many parallels and I continue to enjoy both."

What's your definition of good design?

Form, function and the intangible X factor.

Minimalism or maximilism?

Mmmmm ... mediumism please.

Who's your favourite furniture designer?

Marc Newson for the broader range of products he designs.

What's your favourite piece of furniture?

Arne Jacobsen's 3107 chair. It has simple, clean, functional and beautiful lines.

Have you ever bought something even if it was the most impractical thing in the world just because it looked good?

Of course. It's boring to be too practical always, and why not use something for the purpose it was not intended. I have used Alessi bottle stoppers as drawer pulls. Why not mix it up? Let's use our imaginations and inject personality.

What could you never bear to part with?

My Fender Stratocaster circa 1968.

Money no object, what sort of house and furniture would you have?

Comfortable, modern and spacious with good orientation and light.

What's the reality?

Comfortable and modern.

Askew aside, what's your favourite store?

LIMN in San Francisco. It's a wonderful furniture and objects store hidden away from downtown.

Your idea of luxury?

Having time to enjoy life.