R+D Design, established in 1999 by its two principals, Michael Ryan and Sophie
Demenge, is engaged in the design and manufacture of furniture,
tabletop and accessories.
Michael Ryan, after receiving a degree in political science, formed and operated
a tribal and ethnic arts business for 6 years. In 1994, Mr. Ryan founded the
Michael Ryan Company which designs and manufactures contract furniture and fixtures
for the hospitality industry.
Sophie Demenge grew up in Paris, France. After studying at the Sorbonne she moved
to San Francisco in 1993 to study art and flying trapeze. In 1997 Ms. Demenge
entered the Pratt Institute in New York, receiving her degree in industrial design
in 1999. In the summer of that year, Ms. Demenge joined with Mr. Ryan in establishing
R+D Design.