Showcase Spotlight: Bert Dufour, The Designer of Things

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I'm a Belgian designer and illustrator inspired by Ireland’s coastline and architecture. With a background in multimedia, I love bringing stories, shapes and character to life in prints, puzzles and games. What started as a fascination with lighthouses has grown into a colourful collection that sparks joy and a sense of place, blending graphic design with nostalgia and a love for the ever-changing light along Ireland’s shores.
Tell us about the brand.
The Designer of Things brings Ireland’s coastline to life through prints, puzzles, playing cards and other coastal-inspired creations. From iconic lighthouses to hidden harbours, each design celebrates the stories and charm of the coast - with clean lines, a dash of nostalgia, and a hint of salty air.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I’ve long loved the crisp, clear lines of European comics - the ligne claire style still sparks my imagination today. Combine that with a fascination for architecture, from Art Nouveau to 60s brutalism, and you get the shapes, patterns and touch of whimsy that appear in my coastal illustrations.

What are your brand values?
The Designer of Things brings Ireland’s coastline to life through clean, clear designs inspired by architecture and the rhythm of the sea. Each print, puzzle and game reflects careful craftsmanship, a love of storytelling, and a nod to the history and character of the places depicted. Playful touches and thoughtful details spark curiosity, delight and a sense of connection, letting the charm, colour and atmosphere of the coast find a place in everyday life.
What do you like most about what you do?
What I love most is the challenge of creating new work that both engages and delights - pieces that people connect with and, hopefully, want to take home. From brainstorming ideas to seeing a finished print, puzzle or game come to life, every step of the process sparks excitement… and yes, I even don’t mind a bit of admin along the way!

Is this your first time exhibiting at Showcase Ireland?
No, this is my 7th year at Showcase - I've done three shows with the Local Enterprise Offices and four with DCCI.
What advice would you give to first time exhibitors?
Don’t let the show floor intimidate you - it’s not as overwhelming as it looks! Relax, trust your products and enjoy the buzz of the few days on the floor. Smile, chat with visitors, and soak in the atmosphere - it’s fun.
Is sustainability an important aspect of your business?
Sustainability is important to us, and we try to keep production as local as possible. Everything is made in Ireland or elsewhere in Europe, keeping transport miles low and our impact lighter. Beyond that, we’re mindful about the materials we use, the products we create and the choices we make along the way - small steps that add up to a big difference. It’s all about creating beautiful, lasting pieces while treading a little more lightly on the coast that we love.

What's new for Showcase 2026?
For 2026, the coast comes a little closer to home… in miniature! Ireland’s lighthouses are making a tiny but charming appearance, bringing a touch of coastal magic to your fridge - a playful reminder of the sea, even when you’re indoors.
Find The Designer of Things at Stand C31 in the DCCI Area.
