Design Museum’s Ria Hawthorn sucks up to Dyson

Sir James spent ten whole years developing his first bagless vacuum cleaner, producing thousands of prototypes before presenting his idea to all the major vac brands. When Dyson’s idea was dismissed unequivocally, which some say was because it would damage the manufacturers’ profits from selling bags, he decided to produce it himself.

Dyson’s belief in innovation, combined with his determination and entrepreneurial spirit have led him to revolutionising even more everyday household objects, turning the company’s attention to consumer products that others have ignored for decades. The design of the humble fan, hand-dryer and washing machine have been transformed by Dyson’s exacting eye and his 1,000-strong team of dedicated engineers.