Tunisian-born Tom was a professional bass player and rap club promoter when a live welding act on stage at one of his events sparked an interest in design and craftsmanship. Despite his only qualification being a one-day course in plastic bumper repair, his eye for cutting-edge detail and flair for furnishings soon made him a name as the hottest avant-garde homewares talent. Today, iconic pieces by the Cappellini contributor, Habitat head honcho and Artek collaborator are found stealing the limelight in the world's most stylish spaces, from design museums to boutique hotels.

Tom Dixon anonymously reviewed: