Back to NewsA Heads Up with Phil Howard
Inspired in self-isolation
With Covid-19 lockdowns worldwide and health authorities urging people to self-isolate and practice social distancing on a massive scale as part of an enormous effort to #FlattenTheCurve of the global Coronavirus pandemic … we are reaching out to industry friends, colleagues, associates, partners, etc., and asking them to share their #StayHome and #QuarantineAndChill activities with us during this extraordinary time.
Robe: What do you do normally?
Phil: I am part of the Robe UK / Anolis team and my work involves developing the Anolis architectural lighting brand in the UK's northern region. My typical week would involve several face-to-face meetings with lighting designers, consultants and installers.
Robe: Where are you right now?
Phil: Sheffield, South Yorkshire.
Robe: What are you doing to fill the time whilst isolating / on lockdown?
Phil: Working from home. Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has placed some projects on temporarily on hold, a number are still progressing, which are mainly exterior outside installations. I have had to improvise and use Skype and the good old telephone rather than meeting clients face to face!
Robe: What’s the most creative thing you’re able to do in isolation?
Phil: Not so much creative but have adapted my routine. For example, instead of going to the gym, I have been out road running and making use of my limited home gym equipment.
Robe: Are you looking after anyone else during the Covid-19 crisis?
Phil: No.
Robe: Has anyone inspired you since this started?
Phil: I think the way the NHS staff and volunteers have risen to the challenge is an inspiration to all. Especially the way many are working in environments where Covid-19 is or has been present as they are basically putting their lives on the line!
Robe: Favourite book / movie / Netflix series / viral video.
Phil: With the country in lockdown, I am certainly finding I have more time in the evenings. I have recently watched some new DVD releases Le Mans ’66 (also known as “Ford v Ferrari” in some territories, a gripping 2019 American sports drama film directed by James Mangold) and 1917 (a 2019 British epic war film directed, co-written, and produced by Sam Mendes) both of which I would highly recommend.
Robe: What’s the first thing you’d like to do when we are through it?
Phil: Good question. For me its probably very basic stuff like socialise with friends in the pub and even … having a haircut!!!
Robe: Own question / answer / message of solidarity or something you’d like to say?
Phil: I would say stay busy and positive!