
Podcast
Podcast
In this episode of A Founder’s Life, Leo Gestetner sits down with Stuart Harvey Lee, founder of Prime Studio, a product and brand design consultancy based in New York City. From his beginnings as a trainee engineer in Sheffield to building one of the leading design agencies in the U.S., Stuart’s 27-year entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in longevity, balance, and creativity.
Stuart Harvey Lee is the Founder of Prime Studio, a Product + Brand design consultancy based in NYC. He started his career as a Mechanical Engineer working in a steelworks in Sheffield before discovering his passion for Industrial Design whilst earning his Masters Degree at the Royal College of Art.
He moved to New York in 1991 and cut his teeth working at both Smart Design and Able Design before founding Prime Studio in 1998. At Prime, Stuart is fortunate to work with a wide range of clients from global companies like Unilever and Bayer to startups like Harry’s and Welly. His work has won numerous awards and he is the holder of over 100 patents. Most importantly he relishes designing products which make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.
When he’s not designing Stuart can either be found challenging himself to ride the hills of the Hudson Valley on his favorite bike or desperately trying to cultivate his asparagus bed.
In this episode of A Founder’s Life, Leo Gestetner sits down with Stuart Harvey Lee, founder of Prime Studio, a product and brand design consultancy based in New York City. From his beginnings as a trainee engineer in Sheffield to building one of the leading design agencies in the U.S., Stuart’s 27-year entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in longevity, balance, and creativity.
Early Career: From trainee engineer in Sheffield steelworks to industrial design at the Royal College of Art.
Big Challenge: Navigating a recession in England and taking the leap to move to the U.S.
Turning Point: Launching Prime Studio and landing clients like Harry’s Razors.
Personal Growth: Embracing cycling, cooking, yoga, and gardening as sources of creativity and health.
Business Success: Running Prime Studio for 27 years by keeping it “small by design” to prioritize balance and creativity.
Future Vision: Continue fostering creativity, balance, and meaningful client relationships while enjoying life with family.