Born in Germany, Philipp Mainzer studied product design at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, and architecture at the Architectural Association both in London. In 1995 Philipp Mainzer co-founded the modern furniture brand e15. Having established the progressive, enduring philosophy and unique branding of e15, he has received international awards for many of his furniture designs, which are identifying icons for e15 and part of permanent exhibitions in museums. Parallel to the creation of e15, Philipp Mainzer practiced architecture in New York and continued so after returning to Germany in 2001. Today, Philipp Mainzer is creative and managing director of his architecture office and e15. He is a member of the executive committee of the German Design Council and regularly gives lectures on architecture, design and branding.