Q+A: Gale Moutrey

I generally do a bit of work in the mornings while it's still quiet in the house and then spend the day with my children or gardening when the weather is nice.

What are your hobbies?

Reading, gardening and traveling.

What is the saying that you like the most? Why?

"Never give up" - because I believe in being positive.

What is the book you are reading now?

Right now I am reading Resilience by Andrew Zolli.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

A Saturday morning with fresh croissants, great coffee and my family all at home.

What is your greatest fear?

Being bored.

What is the quality you most admire in a designer?

Humility.

What do you value the most in your friends?

Kindness.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My children.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I would be more adventurous.

Name a place in China that impressed you most and another you want to explore?

I love Shanghai and have been fortunate to be here a few times. I have not visited Beijing but would like to.

What's the best way to break the ice with a Chinese businessman you've met for the first time?

Smile genuinely. Listen truly.

Give three words to describe your impression of Chinese businessmen.

Polite, respectful, interesting.

What do you love the most about your own working space?

The ability to choose where and how I work, depending on the task I'm doing in any Steelcase workplace in the world.

(China Daily USA 07/25/2013 page15)