We’re big fans of Danish interior design brand ferm LIVING. It’s not only because they have a lot of gorgeous, functional items (those planters, you guys!) but also because they’re a brand that likes to take design risks.
Founder Trine Andersen stands out to us as a business owner who is excited to collaborate with artists and designers to produce interesting, limited edition work. ferm LIVING’s latest collaboration with knitwear designer Rikke Jo Tholstrup, “Paddle People,” is a great example.
“Paddle People” consists of decorative wooden paddles covered with a graphic, colourful knit design on the bottom of the paddle. Each one is handmade in Denmark, from the wood carving to the textile. Though textile production mostly left Denmark in the 1980s for Eastern Europe, it is slowly coming back to the country. These paddles were made is an original 1950s-era textile factory that is now working again.
Do these pieces pass the beautiful & useful test we usually give Scandinavian design items? Well, not really. While they’re certainly beautiful, they’re entirely decorative (unless you also have a knit-covered canoe, which would be very cool but also so weird). But you know what? That’s okay; the design is in the production and the artistry is in how you incorporate the piece into your home. Why not think about wall decor as not only prints, photographs or paintings, but also textural? We love the sculptural vibe it brings to the home.
ferm LIVING x Rikke have only produced 50 in total, so get ’em while they’re around! Ten of each of the five designs are now available to buy online.
How would you showcase Paddle People in your home? Tell us in the comments!