25 September, 2008

Prevents furniture classics of the future Nordic design champion?

Lighting design, Wegner, Panton, Aalto, Henningsen, the list is endless. During the 1900s, the Nordic countries represented a disproportionate number of the world's most renowned furniture designers. Most became well known during his career, while others have become cult retrospectively. Common names for the above is that they now regarded as some of the Nordic mästardesignerna.

It is common, especially here in Sweden, to find furnishings and furniture by these designers, both in people's homes and in public places. Alvar Aalto tulpanvas, Yngve Ekström Lamino Chair and Henningsen's lamps we see everywhere. They are standing and hanging advertising for their long-dead designers. It is therefore not surprising if young designers today find it difficult to find its place and to compete among these icons.

Few modern designers have achieved the same status as their predecessors. There are obvious exceptions, such as Philippe Starck, Ron Arad, etc ... but even they are from an older generation and countries outside the Nordic region.

The situation is of course far from desperate for new designers. Although many may speak ill of the furniture giants such as IKEA, the big companies actually contributed to increased public interest in design and decor and it has become more readily available. This means that it is a tough business for potential designers, but which may in turn lead to increased quality through the fierce competition. In addition, Sweden IKEA to thank for the good reputation abroad when it comes to modern Swedish design. It is a fact that words such as Sweden and the furniture is often associated.

Many have a sense of climax is reached in the furniture design of new design ideas may simply be too extreme to continue to fulfill its function as furniture. An early example of this is Gerrit Reitfelds Red / Blue Chair. Similar problems are also found in music and other arts. New materials (such as various shared settlements of wood and plastic) as well as new challenges in design (organic and environmentally friendly thinking), however, show that there is still much left to accomplish. Even if there were limits, would be borderline between has been immense.

There is no danger of Nordic design right now. The small area in the north are still regarded as a mecca of inspiration and innovation in furniture design. As concerns over global warming is growing, also increases the demand for furniture made of natural and organic materials such as wood and there is a better place to produce them?

In future articles here in NM, you can read more about new designers and new design.