While we usually interview products, Millitron® is Milliken’s patented digital dye infusion (DDI) technology able to create high-definition, cinematic floor covering patterns that flow across modular carpet tiles. We just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to sit down to a Q+A with the hottest new manufacturing heavy-weight.
Where did you grow up?
My roots are grounded in technology at Milliken’s Live Oak manufacturing facility in LaGrange, Georgia. My humble beginnings were influenced by Milliken Print Research Scientists, who taught me how to lead—to work smart, encourage diversity, and make an everlasting impression. Now you can find me around the world, including the United Kingdom, China, and Australia.
What was your first big break?
I made my debut more than 40 years ago and kept getting better with age. My beauty secret: Milliken’s unparalleled research and design capabilities.
What’s the rumor mill churning out about you these days?
I’m not usually one to boast, but my remarkable ability to emulate natural surfaces with the luxury and functionality of soft surfaces was on full display at NeoCon 2016. I even accepted the Best of NeoCon Gold for Milliken’s modular carpet collection, Lapidus.
Where was the last place the paparazzi photographed you?
I appeared in an interactive 360-degree video that captured every facet of my work at the Milliken Chicago showroom for NeoCon 2016. My creations have also been spotted in innovative offices, schools, libraries, airports, hotels, and convention centers worldwide. Just look down.
Aside from sugar, spice, and everything nice, what else are you made of?
My unlimited color space means I’m made of whatever you want me to be. I can make your dreams of color and pattern come true with my precise computer-controlled dye jets, but unlike when you wake in the morning, the vivid colors and patterns I bring to life never wear off.
If you could get one plastic surgery procedure what would it be?
I’m so agile that I can be who I want, when I want, where I want—from sharp and defined to nuanced and poetic. No plastic surgeon
needed—it’s in my DNA.
Who are some of your idols and influencers?
These days I’m particularly inspired by nature. I find myself emulating natural, unearthed surfaces and organic structures, but through a contemporary colored lens for fresh, cinematic aesthetics.
What’s your biggest turn-on?
Beautiful, expansive patterns on modular carpet. But I’m equally intrigued by the understated—I like to see my unexpected influence on simplicity in a way that no other technology can deliver.
Turn-off?
When it comes to patterning, I can flow across the floor or celebrate tile intersections. What I don’t appreciate are those who can’t do either well.
Who’s your current bestie?
Honestly, I love playing matchmaker for my closest friends. I form excellent bonds between color and yarn, and connect patterns better than anyone else. Color blending and pattern matching is my forte.
Who would you like to work with next?
I’m particularly struck by Eero—Milliken’s award-winning Freelay luxury vinyl tile. His design is revolutionary but yet easy to approach. Together we could be iconic.
What’s the worst part about fame?
Some people never understand who you are until after they walk all over you, but I never get tired of demonstrating why I’m the most versatile technology in the industry.
