He’s the Australian jewelry designer who has us eyeing a fresh collection of men’s accessories made with stylish silver and wood designs.  From symbolic ebony cufflinks to eco-friendly necklaces,  Mark Armstrong shows us how to be a dreamer with Passion, Modernity, and Urbanity. 

When he’s not busy marketing and designing the esteemed John Ferdinand collection, you’ll find him sharing his eco chic picks on ThisNext.  Here’s what this up-and-coming Aussie designer has to say about the latest trends in sustainable jewelry, accessories, and his globally-inspired lifestyle:

TN: Any sneak previews you can share with ThisNext readers?
MA: We’re launching funky new bracelets in Nappa leather, lizard and python. Preview them here.

TN: Biggest response a product of yours has received from consumers?
MA: People are loving our Passion cufflinks in silver inlaid with ebony.  And our Devotion pendant in a medium size has people foaming at the mouth for more.

TN: The product that’s had the biggest influence on your design?
MA: None — I try to just connect with my own inspiration from nature.

TN: If you were a product, you’d be a ________.
MA: iPod video full of hot porn.

TN: Your favorite product discovery in the last six months… Or something that inspired you?
MA: The most inspiring thing I’ve done was a white-water rafting trip down the Auyung River in Bali. Gorgeous.

TN: Most prized possession?
MA: Macbook Pro

TN: A product love secret you’re too embarrassed to share?
MA: Krispy Kreme donuts.

TN: Name an item under your bed?
MA: Unused shelving which I could not fit in this apartment.

TN: Something in your closet that is not apparel, shoes, bags, etc.?
MA: Dehumidifying thingies to stop clothes going moldy.

TN: Fav trend for summer?
MA: John Ferdinand.

TN: Least fav trend for summer?
MA: Americans too embarrassed to wear Aussie Bum swimwear.

TN: City or suburbs?
MA: City: Hong Kong, my home for the last 13 years.

TN: Loft or the perfect house with the white picket fence?
MA: Loft — we are moving in to one soon at 111 High Street.

TN: Flip-flops or sneakers?
MA: Sneakers. Don’t like looking at hairy toes.

TN:  Coffee or tea?
MA: Coffee from Epoch Cafe, Wing Fung Street, Hong Kong.