If you’re lucky, you get to work in a field you’re passionate about. It’s safe to say that Jean-Baptiste Ponsot has hit the double jackpot as he’s managed to combine the two things he loves most – wine and design – to create a sound business. With a degree in industrial and production design from L’École de Design Nantes Atlantique, Jean-Baptiste worked as a designer for companies such as DMA Galerie, Atelier Forever and Michael Young before taking the plunge and founding Sensis Innovation Ltd, where he now works as its design director. The company is a passion project involving a couple of friends that all have one thing in common: a fervent interest in wine. At Sensis, Jean-Baptiste has the best of both worlds, as he gets to immerse himself in wine while he designs functional wine storage solutions for the homes of style-savvy Hongkongers.
Located in an older building in Fortress Hill, the office has a distinct start-up atmosphere. It’s a very peaceful environment for our design team, which allows us to be productive, says Jean-Baptiste. Our meeting room is the place where everyone gets together, where we share ideas, enjoy a glass of whisky, play ping-pong… it’s basically our sanctuary. The office certainly has a laid-back vibe, and the cherry on top is undeniably the wine cellar – a feature which the whole space has been designed around. It’s a place where the staff sneaks off to every now and then for some quiet time, and of course, to indulge in a lovely glass of wine.
Q&A with Jean-Baptiste Ponsot
How do you start your workday? I usually go for a quick run in Victoria Park in the early morning to clear my head. Then I go to the office before the team arrives, play a record and enjoy two coffees.
What do you love most about your workspace? We’re based in an old building; it’s where old meets new and I love that. I played around with historical and modern aspects, which is reflected in the space.
What’s your favourite area in the office? If the phone is ringing off the hook and I need a moment to unwind, I’ll escape to the wine cellar. There I can enjoy complete silence, and will probably indulge in a glass of wine.
A wine you would recommend? I don’t want to be a cliché, but the Cos d’Estournel 1982 is outstanding. It’s more than a wine; it’s a travel through time and history.
Best thing about your work? I never thought I would have a role where I could be doing the two things I love most at once. It really is a passion more than a job.
Which quote resonates with you most? Make it simple but significant.
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