Scandinavian Design to Live With for Years

Apr. 2018 -no.2

Scandinavian design has long been popular in Japan. Beyond its appearance, its ease of use in Japanese homes and its thoughtful approach to lasting everyday objects may help explain that affection. The design ideas developed more than half a century ago continue to influence makers today, who bring their own new perspectives to familiar forms. Here, we look at pieces that can become part of meals and quiet breaks alike.

Bring a Scandinavian design classic into everyday life

  Arne Jacobsen (1902–1971) was a Danish architect and designer whose work helped define the modern interiors of the mid-twentieth century. His refined, functional designs remain widely admired. Among them is a distinctive series of drinking glasses. Jacobsen designed the SAS Royal Hotel near Copenhagen's central station as a complete environment, from the building to its interiors and furnishings. The Royal glass series was created for that setting and later reissued by Holmegaard. Founded in 1825, Holmegaard has a long history of Danish glassmaking. Glasses like these need not be saved only for anniversaries or special dinners. Their practical shapes are a pleasure to use at an everyday meal. The short stem gives the glass a low, balanced profile, both in the hand and on the table. The glasses were described as dishwasher-safe; follow the care instructions for your particular glass and use a suitable gentle program. At the time of this feature, POTPURRI stocked three sizes for red wine, white wine and schnapps. They are not limited to those drinks: try a smoothie or sparkling water, use the schnapps glass for an aperitif, or present a small appetizer or dessert.

A shared affinity for forests, water and natural materials

Scandinavian design has become a familiar presence in Japanese homes. Although the regions are far apart, some shared sensibilities may explain the connection. Both draw inspiration from nature, from seasonal flowers and roadside plants to forests and waterside landscapes. Both also value carefully made objects that can be maintained and enjoyed for years. A simple background accented with color or pattern sits comfortably beside wood and traditional Japanese objects. These qualities can make it easy to bring a Scandinavian piece into a room and feel at home with it.

Inspiration traveling from Japan to Scandinavia

BY MAY is the design collaboration of Johanna Örn and Maria Bergström, established in 2014. Its name reflects that both designers were born in May. Drawing inspiration from Japanese craft traditions and details, they combine careful making with Scandinavian pattern and color. Their distinctive hexagonal silicone mats bring a lively touch to meals and teatime. The silicone surface does not absorb ordinary spills and can be washed with detergent. The mats featured here were rated to 200°C; follow the product's care guidance and keep them away from direct heat. The matching coasters also help glasses stay in place. Bold patterns and light, playful colors offer plenty of possibilities for pairing them with your own tableware.

Objects that fit comfortably into daily life

Location courtesy of neu / 2-1-4 Shirakawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo, at the time of this feature

  Scandinavian design can feel both fresh and familiar in a Japanese home. Part of that comfort comes from shared ideas about how to live with objects. Functional beauty means a beautiful design that works well in daily use. POTPURRI's attention to how tableware feels in the hand has something in common with that approach. Whether a classic by a celebrated designer or a new piece by a contemporary maker, an object becomes more meaningful as it finds its place in your life. On a sunny day off, we imagine a Royal glass filled with a colorful fruit drink, like something inspired by a Stockholm market, and look ahead to the brief Scandinavian summer.