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Preview of Estonian design “Size Doesn’t Matter” Publisher: Estonian Association of Designers (EAD) Curator: Ilona Gurjanova Editors: Ilona Gurjanova, Ene Läkk, Michael Dumiak Designer of “Size Doesn’t Matter” logo: Martin Lazarev Graphic design and layout: Tuumik Stuudio OÜ and Design Management OÜ Translation: Multilingua Tõlkebüroo OÜ and EAD Scenography of London exhibition: Helen Sirp Exhibition venue in London: gallery@oxo, Oxo Tower Wharf, Bargehouse Street South Bank, London SE1 9PH gallery@oxo is owned and managed by Coin Street Community Builders www.coinstreet.org Photos: Mait Summatavet, Henry Mang, Juta Kübarsepp, Piret Loog, Triinu Luming, Andrey Kulpin, Kristiin Kõosalu, Oliver Moosus, Margot Vaaderpass, Stigo, Urmas Lüüs, Renee Altrov, Kaidi Lillep, Sergei Didyk, Magnus Heinmets, Felix Laasme, Tõnu Tunnel, Terje Talpsepp, Andero Kalju, Villem Tõnisberg Marianne Jõesaar, Dmitri Gerasimov, Janno Nõu, Markus Marks, Jaana Süld, Terje Ugandi, EAD and designers’ personal archives Print : Aktaprint AS Papier : 115g G-Print 95*65 / 270g Curious Matter Goya White 70*50 2017
Estonian Association of Designers ESTONIAN DESIGN HOUSE Solaris_Estonia pst 9, 11314 Tallinn www.edl.ee www.estoniandesignhouse.com www.tallinndesignfestival.com
Size Doesn’t Matter Ilona Gurjanova, curator, Estonian Association of Designers, president
There are only three countries in the European Union which have a
density of its designers and the abundance of its achievements. The
smaller population than Estonia. Even so, the density of designers in
point is to introduce Estonian design to foreign countries and present
this small Baltic nation is surprisingly high. Estonia has one designer
a cross-section of the contemporary design world in Estonia. Past
for every 800 citizens – and we have great design education. Did you
exhibits included advanced industrial products and demonstrate the
know that Estonia is home to the Minox ‘James Bond’ miniature spy
successful combination of a rich visual heritage with the very latest
camera, Skype, TransferWise, and that we also have our own satellite?
technologies and solutions.
Estonia puts the ‘E’ in electronic: e-government, e-elections, e-parking and even e-Christmas tree delivery services from the spruce and pine
EAD hopes through foreign exhibitions to boost cultural exchanges
forests outside the city.
and present the achievements of Estonia as a rapidly developing design country. In doing so it should create networkig opportunities for
The size of the country has its advantages. A small country acts like
Estonian product designers wanting to reach the international arena.
a club: it is easy to test new ideas in Estonia because we have a lot of democracy and little bureaucracy.
This Size Doesn’t Matter exhibition includes products related to home furnishing: textiles, furniture, lighting, ceramics, glass, driving vehicles
Because a small country cannot rely on big industry, the design sector
and fashion accessories including bags, shoes, jewelry and a selection
must search for alternative solutions, methods and materials to partici-
of packaging and book designs. Nearly 50 designers are represented
pate in and improve the many steps from design to manufacture. Desi-
including established names as well as young promising artists gaining
gners must combine the industrial with the hand- and custom-made;
recognition both in Estonia and abroad. The crisp collection is charac-
must blend traditional and contemporary; must hustle; must look
terized by a minimalist style, natural materials, ingenious solutions and
outside itself; must find neighbours and partners with which to trade
humor.
goods and ideas. The Size Doesn’t Matter concept has been exhibited in Brussels, Tallinn, The Estonian Association of Designers (EAD) created the concept of
Vienna, Stockholm, Caen and is heading to London, Paris, Berlin and
Size Doesn’t Matter in 2014. It contrasts the smallness of the land, the
beyond.
Estonian design How can a national design distinguish itself in today’s globalised
that began production in the 19th century and, due to its high quality
society, and what kind of impression does Estonian design leave to
technology and level of innovation, drew designers from all over the
bystanders? Is it an exemplary Baltic phenomenon or more like the
world. The factory is linked to names like Alvar Aalto and Bauhaus. The
little brother of the Scandinavian countries? Estonian cultural identity
pinnacle of the factory’s production included bent plywood items and
is largely based on the sense of being part of the Finno-Ugric peoples,
humidity-proof cardboard and plywood suitcases.
who are scattered from the Urals to Hungary. One of the crucial factors in preserving a unified cultural identity has been the Estonian language.
A new Estonian design was born during the 1990s. As the country
Estonian designers value acquiring international experience through
was exposed to the market economy, an understanding of design as
connections with the outside world. Estonia is grateful to its Nordic
the creator of a contemporary and high quality environment started
neighbours Finland and Denmark, which have helped to develop
to take root. Design education was established in 1966 when Bruno
an awareness of design in Estonia. Despite the fact that designers
Tomberg started the first programme of its kind in the country at the
familiarise themselves with contemporary developments and styles, a
Estonian State Art Institute. As the word “design” was deemed too
design identity is influenced by idiosyncrasies of the cultural heritage
“western” at the time, the use of it was forbidden and it was replaced
and economy of the country. Ascetic, oriented towards basic needs
with “industrial art”. Today, design is taught at the Estonian Academy
and functions, a smart aesthetic, not focusing on luxury – these are the
of Arts (EAA ), two colleges and with a joint programme by EAA and
intrinsic qualities of Estonian design. National identity has always been
Tallinn University of Technology. Various contemporary directions, such
a political question and that has been the driving force behind many
as service design and excellence in craftsmanship, can be acquired at
consciously but also unconsciously launched defence mechanisms.
different colleges like Tartu Art College and the Viljandi Culture Aca-
Estonian art, especially applied art, has managed to preserve a certain
demy. There are more than 2,500 designers with a higher education.
detachment from politics. Nevertheless, during occupation as part of
More than half of them are also actively working in their field. Not many
the Soviet Union, creative people used every opportunity available to
have the opportunity to work as in-house designers and the number of
protest against the official ideology by renewing artistic expression.
designer-entrepreneurs is growing. Graphic designers have the most opportunities to find work. There are around 90 companies exporting
Many nations can brag about their internationally known art and design
design products and services.
icons. Unfortunately, Estonia rarely finds an opportunity. But still, let us name a few: Walter Zapp, the inventor of the spy camera Minox we
Outsourcing has been a main source of income for the Estonian indus-
all know from Bond films. Zapp developed the first model in Estonia in
try. Now domestic production has also increased, creating jobs for
1934, but as he did not find a manufacturer, he took the prototype to
designers and they have found recognition. The designer Martin Pärn
Riga where it was put into production a couple of years later. Architects
received the Red Dot Best of the Best award for his table “Martin” and
are familiar with the name Louis Kahn, yet the fact that he was born on
together with the manufacturer, Martela, was included in the compi-
Saaremaa, in Estonia, is little known. Fearing that the head of the family
lation of the 200 best design products of the 20th century published
would be mobilised into the Russo-Japanese war, the family moved to
by the renowned design magazine MD. In 2015, the sauna heater Drop,
the USA. The well-known artist Kalev Mark Kostabi, based in the USA,
designed by Mihkel Masso for a trademark called Huum, earned a
also has roots in Estonia: his family emigrated during the Second World
nomination for a Red Dot Award and Karl Annus got Red Dot award for
War. Estonians are especially proud of the Luther furniture company
Glens glasses.
A strong tradition of furniture design has greatly impacted the furni-
country as well and happy customers include well-known actors as well
ture and lighting fixture industry in Estonia. Interior design for public
as royalty.
buildings has been a special focus for companies such as Standard, Thulema and 4Room. The most well-known furniture designers in Esto-
The sector most involving design currently is the clothing and textile
nia are Maile Grünberg, the Mang family, Katrin Soans, Toivo Raidmets,
industry. The best known brands are Ivo Nikkolo, Monton, Xenia Joost,
Taevo Gans and Anu Vainomäe. The most notable younger designers
Lilli Jahilo, Katrin Kuldma, Aldo Järvsoo, Tiina Talumees, Oksana Tandit,
are Jaanus Orgusaar, Martin Saar, Argo Tamm, Igor Volkov, Maria Rästa,
Marit Ilison. Anna Viik, Kriss Soonik, Perit Muuga and Kristian Steinberg
Veiko Liis, Pavel Sidorenko, along with a few brands: Oot-Oot, Ruumila-
are making waves in the UK; Ragne Kikas works in a Japanese fashion
bor and Warm North.
house; Mirja Pitkäärt is designing accessories for Louis Vuitton.
Leftovers from the German furniture industry inspired Elmet Treier to
The fashion change agent Reet Aus took a bold step by applying
create easily built, solid, modular wood floors without special tools and
up-cycling methods to make use of manufacturing castoffs as material
steel joints, and spirited lamps, tables and chairs. Some of the most
for new clothing. As a result she reduced her ecological footprint by 20
successful lighting fixtures designers include Tarmo Luisk, Margus
percent compared to regular production with radical savings in the use
Triibmann, Johanna Tammsalu and Tõnis Vellama. Mait Summatavet
of water and chemical treatments while still producing on a large scale.
could be considered a true classic in Estonian design. The bath and
Traditional textiles are being reinvented in Estonia by a new genera-
shower industry has grown into a considerable branch of production,
tion of textile designers who are experimenting with new innovative
represented by two larger companies, Balteco and Aquator. There are
solutions. Kristi Kuusk is involved with smart textile themes which are
also successful designers in the bathroom product development area:
becoming increasingly popular. An artistically and technically high level
Villi Pogga, Aivar Habakukk and Sven Sõrmus.
of skill is demonstrated by textile designers who, in addition to traditional solutions, create “talking” and light conducting textiles; combine
The heavyweights of Estonian design include Matti Õunapuu, the foun-
textiles with wood and concrete or old newspapers and even coffee
der of the first design agency and the designer of the innovative elec-
packages - Monika Järg, Mare Kelpman, Annike Laigo, Kärt Ojavee,
tric scooter Stigo. There is Tiit Liiv with his lengthy Finnish experience,
Elna Kaasik and Krista Leesi.
Heikki Zoova, and Üllar Karro, the designer of the solar powered scooter. There are also products for niche markets like retro motor vehicles
Estonia is also internationally renowned for its fondness for inventions
(Andres Uibomäe, Gabriel Verilaskja) and ergonomic bicycles made
and the extensive use of information technologies. Internet banking
from contemporary materials (Indrek Narusk). Companies offering
and m-payments (mobile payments, m-parking) are in common use;
industrial design services like Iseasi and TenTwelve are also enjoying
also e-parliament, e-elections, e-tax board and a digital ID-card. Esto-
increasing success. There is even an Estonian designer recognised
nia is creating a borderless digital society for global citizens as the first
within the car industry in the Germany-based Björn Koop.
country to offer e-Residency. Companies like Skype, Playtech, Transferwise, GrabCad and Fits Me have become known around the world. In
As the local market is small and access to mass production is extre-
Estonia, internet accessibility is like a human right.
mely limited, the lines of design and applied art and fine art are often blurred, which is also evident in the works of Estonian glass designers
Estonian graphic arts historically also have strong roots and a distinct
(Maie-Ann Raun, Kalli Sein, Annkris-Glass), ceramicists (Raili Keiv,
school of graphic design is developing. It has begun to shed a prevalent
Ene Raud, Mariana Laan, Karmen Saat, Maria Sidorenko), jewellery
Dutch influence present due to the fact many of the designers studied
designers (Tanel Veenre, Anu Samarüütel, Sofia Hallik, Darja Popo-
in the Netherlands. Designers with a distinct style include Asko Künnap,
litova, Kärt Maran, Kadri Mälk, Maarja Niinemägi, Kärt Summatavet,
Kristjan Mändmaa, Ivar Sakk, Jan Tomson, Eiko Ojala, Marko Kekishev
Urmas Lüüs) and designers of leather goods (Stella Soomlais, Piret
and Indrek Sirkel. After recent education reforms, a generation of desi-
Loog, Kadri Kruus, Nulku, Craftory, Mokoko). Currently, the demand for
gners demonstrating a new way of thinking is emerging. Increasingly,
small runs of semi-handmade quality products is increasing, which is
the focus is on user-centred communication design (Disainiosakond),
great for Estonian designers with exceptional craft skills. The waiting
typography (Anton Koovit, Mart Anderson, Kristjan Jagomägi) and
list for custom-made crafted wooden spectacle frames (Karl Annus)
user interface design (Markko Karu, Velvet). Graphic design is primarily
or handmade footwear (Kärt Põldmaa, Sille Sikmann, Kaspar Paas) can
dominated by ad, branding and design agencies (AKU, Brandmanual,
be several months long. These products are in demand outside the
Der Tank, Identity, Creative Union).
Estonian Association of Designers created the Estonian Design House brand in 2010 with several showrooms and e-shop to give an unique display to 300 Estonian designers actively involved in design life and exports. The Estonian Design House presents a wide array of original design products from professionals and their manufacturers. In the work of Estonian designers and makers you will find northern coastal simplicity and chic, aesthetic beauty and functional quality – all brought to you with humour, user-friendliness and a mind for sustainability. Thanks to extensive export activities Estonian product design is appreciated internationally more and more with each passing year. It has found its way into several exhibitions, fairs and the international market. Magazines like Elle Decoration, Dwell, Avantage, AD, Newsweek, Wallpaper, Monocle, New York Times and countless bloggers have published substantial articles about Estonian designers and their accomplishments. A narrative book by Michael Dumiak (a Berlin based American journalist) called Woods and the Sea: Estonian Design and the Virtual Frontier gives true picture about Estonia designers. “Estonian Design in Focus” was the first international overview exhibition of Estonian design, opening at the Helsinki Design Museum in 2000. This was followed by invitations to Copenhagen, Berlin and the St Etienne Biennale. A collection of Estonian design has been repeatedly displayed at fairs in Paris, Frankfurt, London and Milan Design Weeks and also been presented in neighbouring countries such as Lithuania, Latvia and different cities in Finland, in Germany, in France, also in St Petersburg and in China and the USA. In 2006, the association of designers launched the Tallinn Design Night Festival (Disainiöö). It was conceived as a 24-hour-long festival presenting Estonian design. It is now developed into an week-long international event where designers from over 25 countries have shown their work. At its core, the festival programme features exhibitions, competitions, educational lectures and workshops; it also presents fashion shows, PechaKucha nights, light installations and other fascina-
Estonian Design House Shop @ Solaris
ting events.
Estonia puiestee 9, 11314 Tallinn online shop: www.estoniandesignhouse.com
Ilona Gurjanova edl@edl.ee phone +372 55573687
Design organisations: The Estonian Association of Designers (EAD). EAD brings together over 150 designers from fields like product, textile, fashion and graphic design. It promotes Estonian design in its home country as well as abroad; it initiated the development of a national design policy; together with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications and the Ministry of Culture, it participates in creating means for developing design and increasing demand and supply. EAD regularly organises educational seminars, workshops and competitions. EAD participates in the work of larger design organisations and has been member of the board of various organisations (ICSID, BEDA, EIDD Design For All Europe), it collaborates in projects focused on issues like inclusive design, health care design (EHDM), design management and so on. EAD also initiated the Tallinn For All project, which received the DME award; it organised the European Innovation Festival IF... in Tallinn 2011. EAD presents the BRUNO product design award (as a part of the Estonian Design Awards). It organises the Design Night Festival from 2016 (www.tallinndesignfestival.com) Estonian Design House has been housing the Estonian design showroom and designers’ studios foe 7 years. 2 design shops incl online shop have been etsblisehd under this brand. (www.estoniandesignhouse.com) www.edl.ee
Product Design Award Bruno trophy
Estonian Design Awards / Eesti Disainiauhinnad / BRUNO / biannually / EAD SÄSI / biannually / EDC
Estonian Design Centre (EDC) EDC was established by: the Estonian Academy of Arts, Tallinn University of Technology, Estonian Design Institute and the Estonian Association of Designers. It develops a suitable environment for companies to use design. It organises collaborative projects between designers and enterprises (Buldooser, Vedur); it participates in creating means for developing design. It introduces Estonian design at foreign fairs and design events. It gives out the SÄSI young design award and organises the Estonian Design Awards event. EDC is a member of BEDA. www.disainikeskus.ee
ADC Estonia / annually The service design award / biannually / Estonian Service Industry Association
Koda by Kodasema. www.kodasema.com. Architect Ăœlar Mark
JAANUS ORGUSAAR Jaanus Orgusaar is an inventor and designer who dives straight to the primal source: his work is inspired by nature’s geometry, making his objects clearly distinguishable. His trademark is the construction of three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional sheet material through inventive patterns. As a passionate experimenter he plays with structures, which results in surprising design and architecture. Basing objects upon natural principles means it is possible to change the scale of the object. A lamp on Jaanus’ work desk may well transform into a house and vice versa. Sculptural interior design objects from Orgusaar are both practical and beautiful, offering a unique spatial experience. As nature strives for structure and order, adapting to surroundings, the designer tries to do the same. Most of Orgusaar’s interior objects are created to meet the practical needs of his own family. All products are in daily use: tried, tested and perfected over the years.
COMB This bookshelf is a flat-pack product, easy to put together yet attractive. It bulges from the wall like a sector of a sphere, creating a sci-fi effect in the room. Besides being an eye-catcher, it is also practical and the film-coated plywood is easy to clean. Despite its large dimensions Orgusaar was able to reduce the material thickness down to just a few millimeters even while keeping the structure very strong. Material: waterproof CNC-cut plywood.
Shelf Dune DUNE was inspired by various natural shapes – sand-dunes, flowing water, fractality. The shelf is based on the principle of the Flower of Life and the Golden ratio that appeals to the human eye through its ideal proportion. The winding curves of the shelf seem spontaneous at first glance but actually the wave is based on an algorithm that reoccurs after every fifth span. The repetition is created by three elements with different shapes in both vertical and horizontal levels. The algorithm is not computer generated but created by the designer. While designing the shelf the artist aimed to use material as waste-free as possible, enabled by the placement of the details and perfect fit of the arcs that are cut out with a joint line for two elements. The spacious Dune can be used as a wall shelf or as a room divider. The shelf is easy to assemble according to instructions due to a dovetail joint and simple tablet fixtures. www.jaanusorgusaar.com
Aap Piho Aap began his career as an interior designer, studying at the Estonian Academy of Arts and practicing for a decade. He then took up industrial design at the Netherland’s Royal Academy of Arts, then returning to his homeland to practice design and product development after further study. In 2010 he founded the trademark Maast Furniture together with two colleagues. From 2012 on he moved to lead and develop a new trademark, Warm North. Aap has a deal with the accomplished design marketer MONOQI for agency rights and global distribution for Warm North products. MONOQI has the exclusive agency rights and sells Warm North products in the whole world.
Readers Side Table The multifunctional table is a small tray and a book rack from thick plant-tanned Saaremaa’s cow leather. It can be used beside a couch for holding a tea cup or instead of a bedside table in the bedroom. It is comfortable to take the table to a balcony or into a yard.
Happy Coat Rack This airy, minimalist, playful and fun coat rack was inspired by young plants emerging from the ground. Piho wanted to create something distinctly sculptural which would also be very practical and convenient to use. This rack has five rods, all at different heights – something for every age. Coats and jackets can be hung on both the round head plate or the “neck.” This sculptural, timeless coat rack matches any interior from historic to contemporary; suitable for home, café or office. Material: coated steel, paint finish
Martin Saar Martin Saar founded ONEMANDUO in 2013 after years of travelling, studying and working around the globe. The Tallinnbased studio has been busy with various initiatives ranging from small accessories to larger furniture. Recent examples include HAUS – a fine example ofa private workstation—and a range of leather accessories for Tallinn Craftory. ONEMANDUO products are much more than just things in everyday life; they mean an endless stream of possibilities and are a blend of art, science, technology and architecture. They aim to find balance between form and function resulting in a long lasting solution that meets the needs which manufacturers seek and people want. With verve, aspiration, and passion for their products, ONEMANDUO is carrying out its vision of tomorrow’s design solutions and are therefore constantly looking for collaborators and manufacturers to bring these designs to life.
RAPIDE Rapide is a lounge chair that mixes the forms of the golden age with contemporary functionality. Its details, inspired by a wheelbarrow, give it the ability to be comfortably moved around according to need. Rapide’s wooden legs, oversized wheels and handle convey a warm presence, making it a chair that perfectly translates from public to domestic interiors. Its swift yet inviting character offers high levels of comfort and allows for a relaxed posture. Designed by Martin Saar (ONEMANDUO) for Borg.
MAILE GRÜNBERG In the world of Estonian interior architecture and design, Maile Grünberg is a creative force employing vital and contemporary thinking. She is able to understand modern design directions and different styles almost instinctively, regardless of whether it is Pop Art, Art Deco or hightech. Her considerable experience in product design comes from working for many years in two large furniture production companies. She primarily creates furniture for her interior design projects, many of which have gone on to become classics in Estonian interior design.
HORSE In this small-series production, Grünberg created two versions: a running horse on wheels and rocking horse. The finish is natural or stained in different colors, coated semi-matt lacquer. HOPRSE is a child-friendly product.
Shelf Jack The shelf JACK hints at one of the author’s favourite styles, neo-pop inspired by the sixties; this is in vogue right now as retro fever is strong. The shelf from bent birch plywood is effective and acts like a sculpture in the space.
MARKO ALA+JOONAS TORIM+ Mihkel MÖLDER = OOT-OOT Marko and Joonas are designers who were both trained at Tartu Art College. They have been actively involved in organising Disainiöö (Design Night) and many other design festivals, events and exhibitions. At the moment, Marko is the CEO of Oot-Oot Disain Studio, and Joonas is engaged in designing new products and developing technical solutions. They are currently cooperating on several furniture development projects.
ARMCHAIR VOOG This premium class armchair offers excellent seating thanks to new technologies. Producers combine molded foam and metal frame technology with integrated metal zig-zag springs that gives very ergonomic result together with high comfort level and also, our main goal for all our products – exclusive durability.
DOT Dot is a practical and simple stool with attitude. The pure form is inspired by nature. Natural ash woodlathe-worked legs come together with an industrial felted seat, giving the stool a warm and light being. It is easy to stack up to eight Dot stools. Stackable and easy to clean, the Dot is at home in every living situation. The innovation of Oot-Oot Studio’s Dot stool stands mostly in materials. The production cycle is short, low-cost and completely local. The stool is one example of how to use Estonian-produced industrial felt effectively in furniture industry. Industrial felt holds its shape, is abrasion-resistant yet soft and warm facing the skin. The lathe-worked legs are also made locally of Estonian ash. An efficient manufacturing process allows four stool tops formed from one moulding.The industrial felt is recyclable and can also be produced from recycled plastic bottles. All production stages of the Dot stool can be characterized by simplicity and functionality. Practical design offers maximal stackability (up to 8 stools) and ease for the user: no extra tools needed to put the stools together. The Dot stool is light and slim, which makes it comfortable to use. Transportation of the stool is made easy with a convenient flatpack handle. www.oot-oot.com
The same Oot-Oot also manages the furniture shop “Enjoy Vintage”, which deals Scandinavian furniture from the 50s and 60s. It is a love for old things that has shaped their signature style. They both value durable quality, design functionality and good materials. They think that the durability of materials is important. A good material ages with dignity. This means that products made from good materials live with their user, only getting better with time. Mihkel Mölder joined the studio in 2015.
Raul Abner / RADIS Raul Abner is a self-taught furniture designer shaping high concept into practical applied arts. “For over 40 years wood has been my passion, hobby and work,” Abner says. “No product of mine has been created because of itself. Behind it there is always a clear idea and need.” Abner’s studio, Radis, values natural material, both environment- and people-friendly, avoiding production that creats waste. Most Radis products are handmade. Every piece of furniture is custom-built. The Radis design language is modest and memorable, personalizing homes and offices. The furniture is produced using birch plywood which is a natural, unpretentious, durable material. Pure oil wax is used as an ecological finishing. All drawers and cabinet doors close silently and softly.
TV-stand HUH with sliding doors A strong-boned “companion” that, with unbelievable lightness, supports a large television and big emotions. Small media can be hidden behind the sliding doors, which open in both directions and allow for remote control. The back wall contains a cable outlet. Made of birch plywood, oilwaxed.
Desk MAN This dynamic desk is suitable for the home and office. Two spacious drawers hide candies and workbooks equally well. Equipped with soft-close drawer rails. Material: birch plywood, oil wax. www.radis.ee
elmet treier Elmet Treier is experimenting all the time. Timber is the material that has won his heart. It started as he was studying at the Tallinn Pedagogical Institute. He got work experience in the Netherlands and in Sweden with creating solutions for timber constructions. In Estonia he’s worked as a furniture designer in the company Natureld. He recently paired up with the company Z-Module producing timber building modules; there he developed a new solution for building a solid wood wall easily and quickly without special tools and steel joints. Treier also has created innovative parquets for the producer Snakefloor. He has defended four useful models and two are waiting. Treier is a competitive fellow and stays sharp: no design contest of late passes without a new item from him.
The table from the Flyday The table from the Flyday series is designed to make use of the wood material that accumulates in thousands of cubic meters on storage yard. Flyday products presents wood is in its most genuine form. Steel supports the board firmly, giving the product sufficient strength but retaining lightness. Thoroughly considered frame geometry and simple but efficient connections allows the wood to move, preventing it from curling and cracking. Material: wood and 10mm steel
Ray Elmet Treier designed ”RAY” drawing inspiration from a fish who waves its “wings” to cut through the water. The chair actually does look like a ray. With its sides bent upwards, it’s very comfortable and sturdy for sitting. It’s natural to lean with one’s hands on these sides while sitting down on the chair or rising from it. The minimal amout of material was used while making it, though its plywood and round bar together make for very strong and durable construction. Material: 12mm plywood and 10mm round bar.
NUB The Nub light is built on a classic cell geometry, consisting of pentagonal and hexagonal shapes. The wooden framework gives the luminaire a light and transparent structure. A thin textile covering the wooden frame creates a translucent but perceptible form, recalling the cell nucleus which is familiar from molecular biology.
ANNIKE LAIGO Annike Laigo began as a textile designer in 2000 by focusing on an experimental approach to the field. Through the years she has applied her skills to other areas, currently deeply involved with ceramics. Her design DNA is clear and minimalistic, always challenging, searching for something novel whether it be in material, technique or form. Laigo believes that in everyday objects the function should come with emotion, free from unnecessary information yet emphasizing design. Products should have potential to live longer than seasonal trends. Laigo’s studio has taken part in selected solo and group exhibitions the most respected design fairs across Europe, including 100% London, Maison & Objet Paris, DMY Berlin, Salone Satellite Moscow, Talents IMM Cologne, Talents Ambiente, Northmodern Copenhagen, Talents at IFFT Interior Lifestyle Tokyo and she has won several design prizes at home.
Rug FLOAT The rug is a comfortable, functional, easy-to-use item. Breaking down the broad system of rug design, Annike arrives at three basic elements: material, construction and colour. All the elements prompt design decisions. Float is the result of her choices – a personal act to find and define the core through choices. Delicate, watercolour-like effects combined with a sharp black line creates a charming combination of opposites in a surprising wool format. Dyed by hand with a touch of magic, each rug becomes a unique piece of art.
Naked Clay Celebrating honest materials and methods, Naked Clay cups are hand thrown on the wheel and glazed only where truly necessary. Uncovered clay has an unusual touch, while glaze creates contrast. Opposites in texture but similar in colour, the combination is intriguingly beautiful.
Monika järg Monika Järg’s work is characterized by a northern coolness and minimalist style inspired by the Estonian landscape. Monika combines unexpected materials (silk and concrete, wool and concrete, timber and wool) and working methods. Monika’s studio Tekstiil Ruumis (Textile in Space), is the platform from which she invents and produces interior textiles using natural materials, aided by technology. She connects masterful handicraft skills with the present day. Järg is also a design manager at Narma, one of Estonia’s largest carpet companies. Järg is active in the design community: she likes to be there when new ideas emerge and begin to work.
Carpet MOSS WOODY MOSS WOODY is soft, hand-tufted carpet made from strongly multiplied woolen yarn, available in natural colours and with wooden oak details. The structural pattern of this carpet is formed with wooden squares and the combination with the tight velour surface is a beautiful contrast. The surface of wooden squares is just a bit lower than the woolen yarn, so that its structure can be felt when stepping on the carpet. There are six natural colours available, and it can be ordered in different shapes and dimensions. Custom solutions are also available. Wool is naturally fireproof, so the carpet is qualified to be used in public spaces. Given the combination of materials and structure a MOSS WOODY carpet offers a sound damping effect when hung on a wall. The entire production is carried out in Estonia.
WOODEN LACE WOODEN LACE is a room divider or a panel curtain, which consists of leaf-shaped details.WOODEN LACE is inspired by extra fine knitted Haapsalu lace shawls: their ethereal leaf patterns, fragility, rhythm and logic. The design logic of the pattern is limitless; one only has to make sure there are enough joints between the different details on large surface. WOODEN LACE is made from 3-layered birch plywood, finished with eco-friendly woodwax or coconut paint. There are 2 detail sizes (L: 20x30,7cm, S: 13x21cm), 6 colours (natural, white, brown, anthracite, olive, red) and different pattern combinations available. www.tekstiilruumis.ee
TOIVO RAIDMETS Toivo Raidmets began his career as a furniture designer in industry in the 1970s, moving in the 1980s into producing custom and one-off creations. A more artistic style of design was emergining in Estonia and Raidmets was a key figure among those striving to radically change the rational and modern postwar design landscape in the country. Raidmets intrigued people with his birch-leg tables and three-legged chairs using grotesque forms and unusual materials. He became an active in designing exhibitions, employing effective large-scale elements. Raidmets produced spatial objects and urban design. Raidmets has since again changed tack and gone back to industrial design, founding a company, Toivo, and designing restaurant and nightclub interiors. The living space and metal furniture he produced became more minimalist in accordance with the orientation of the post-Soviet years.
KRAPS Chair “Kraps�, designed for the Viinistu Chamber Hall. Material: birch, steel.
Yes A stool with three legs. As simple a construction as possible, made out of the smallest amount of materials, for self-assembly, packaged in a flat box. In natural, black or white. www.toivoraidmets.com
Jana Jõgi Talken Design (Jana Jõgi) began tackling the capricious material of birch plywood in 2014 by crafting round-formed shelves. The pure form and clean lines of these pieces enable combinations with other furniture in a variety of interiors. The shelves are 100 percent handmade, fusing the popular materials of birch plywood and naturally tanned leather. Talken Design’s signature items are circular freestanding shelves—Piggy small and Piggy large— that have been acknowledged both in Estonia and abroad. Additional dividers are available to supplement Piggy large, adding to the result. Piggy is a multifunctional and stylish interior accessory!
PIGGY Piggy is a multifunctional and stylish interior accessory that can be used for various purposes: a basket for firewood, for stacking newspapers or plaids. It is also an elegant wine bottle holder.
TARMO LUISK
Soft-furniture family BACKROUND and lamps FLYING SHIP The soft-furniture product consists of venturously distinguishable, long-lasting and easily replaceable modules for home use: sofas, (arm-)chairs and beds with simple constructions. High backboards with printed designs represent the name of the product-series. The product can be modified by height, print, width of sitting surface, sofa-legs and on. Each product is an individual piece of art. The backboard is easily foldable; transport and storage is easy and inexpensive for the retailer. The Flying Ship, meanwhile, is a sack-lamp (!) made from manufacturing leftovers which can be used in various ways. It can be specially installed to a sofa or an armchair, used as individual floor lamps or as a wall or ceiling lamp. The wires for the light sources are gathered in a leather sack which holds also an extension wire for the lamp. It is exciting and unexpected. Material: BACKGROUND: (Printed) canvas, wooden framework, metal rack, wheel or wooden legs. Manufacturer: Krisling OÜ
Light hanger WHAT? Light hanger is truly universal, the places to use it are virtually limitless. The light is energy-efficient (LED technology). The materials are natural and durable. The lamp can be assembled according to customers' request as a ceiling-lamp (a drop-down). Light-hangers can be added a "dome", which is a freely-chosen clothing-piece from the wardrobe. The light source LED has been developed and manufactured in Estonia. Materials: wood and metal.
Tarmo Luisk’s experiments move between product design and art. His is a combination of designer and artist doing a bit of everything. It is fine to make products that sell and pay off, although—in order to stay healthy—he also sometimes makes one-off designs. Tarmo Luisk is one of the most well-known and productive individuals among contemporary Estonian designers; he has created furniture, lamps and clocks and also designed public space. Luisk’s work is a considered compromise between detail and wit. He is a perfectionist in design and very critical of himself. Luisk may redo a sketch of an item a hundred times; it is only important that he himself is pleased with the final result. Most importantly he believes that design has to be witty. There is always a small trick in his work and often a twist in the title. It prompts the public to see his design work through the prism of humour. Luisk has had many solo exhibitions, participated in group exhibitions and entered competitions; believe it (or not), he has won all the design prizes and awards on offer in Estonia.
Angry Pigs Angry Pigs is one among the many works by designer Tarmo Luisk that make any indoor space stand out.
CRANE The Crane, meanwhile, derives from the designer’s passion for anything technical, from tools and machines. The lamp is a vivid example of how an object’s functionality (cables, frames, support, etc.) can dictate its form. The Crane was developed in cooperation with the manufacturer 4ROOM, with the possibilities and restrictions of the manufacturing process demanding extra attention from Luisk, especially on technical details. He never forgets to add a playful element.
Stereo Head Light The humorous standard lamp, attempted to blur the borders between design and art, is inspired by music and headphones. This lamp is very important in Luisk author design as it marks the appearance of the new and romantic trait in his design. This irrational object is actually a functional floor lamp. He first demonstrated the floor lamp Stereo Head Light at his last personal exhibition (Back in Business) in 2015. Made from plastic www.4room.ee & meta
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TÕNIS VELLAMA Vellama studied at the Estonian Academy of Arts as a product designer. Practicing first for five years in the Danish studio Jacob Jensen Design, Vellama went on to a spend five years in Estonia as an in-house designer for Norwegian lamp manufacturer Glamox. Vellama made his first solo exhibition of original lamps “LIGHT.THINGS.” in 1992. Under this “label” he has organized a number of curatorial exhibitions in Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Germany, inviting other Estonian designers and design students to participate, keeping a constant focus on new and experimental light fixtures and other innovations.
X Position Chandelier is a centerpiece. It is an important position. With this model each light can be directed to a specific spot in the room: table, picture on wall or objects nearby. Or just turn the lights upward to get soft reflection from ceiling. There are two basic color versions: multicolor and white. It’s a modern chandelier for mood, like sunshine under the woods, light rays through branches. Multicolor model is good when you need an accent for room, white or gray - when you need more modest and practical light maker. An LED installation makes for a specially restrained shape, but the GU10 model provides more choice for light sources.
AERO Pendant Light This is a pendant light aimed at creating an intensely luminous model using two circular tubes. The form of the light is designed so that the majority of the light is aimed straight down and the rest is diffused through reflection off the ceiling. The result is an effective yet soft light. The external form of the light is soft and streamlined, inspired by automotive design. There is a Plexiglas disc between two aluminium components which can be ordered with a wire in the same or different colour. There is also a simpler version of the light where a round energy-efficient bulb fitting an ordinary socket can be used as the light source. This is well-suited to public spaces – cafes and offices – as well as select places in the home, such as above the dining room table. seos.ee
Vellama works now in his own studio SEOS Valgustus, which has realized sophisticated custom-designed light fixtures for embassies, hotels and concert halls, including the church/concert hall St. John’s in St. Petersburg. Bespoke chandeliers combined with advanced light techniques have been his constant passion. Vellama’s uniquely-constructed and installed LED chandelier hangs in the Skype office atrium in Tallinn. Vellama’s small series production of design lamps provides an outlet for creativity which cannot always be fully utilised in public interiors. The lamps Angel, Greta, Aero, Bona-Fide have been nominated for Estonian design awards.
JOHANNA TAMMSALU TAMMA DESIGN is a small experimental studio based in Tallinn. The studio playfully mingles shapes, colours and texture to create beauty from everyday objects. TAMMA DESIGN stands for creating fresh and beautiful objects with stories, with using handicraft mastery as opposed to mass production, and timeless value. Tammsalu’s awards include the BRUNO Best product design for a human environment, Tallinn 2016, SÄSI Young Designer Award, Tallinn 2016 and Pure Talent Contest Selected, Cologne 2015. www.tammadesign.com Instagram: @ tammadesign Twitter: #tammadesign
Solid Spin Ceramic Lamp Collection The lamp collection grew out of a series of experiments with everyday objects: shoes, reading glasses, books, mugs, jugs, forks, etc. Tammsalu used pictures and videos that employed slow shutter speeds to capture these new shapes. The fuzzy results, resembling a butterfly, were frozen in time. “I was fascinated by the strength of solid shapes and with the help of a 3D programme I rotated objects around their own axes.” She tested objects by themselves and also in groups stacked on top of each other. “This resulted in endless possibilities for solid, captivating, revolutionary shapes with soothing outer details and unique individual character.”
Hooga Swing Hooga Swing is a multi-functional piece that transforms from a small bench into a modern and elegant swing. The swing and the bench take the classical style out from its usual surroundings. The strict lines of the wooden frame balance the complex soft upholstery. Kiik is designed for indoor use. It is perfect for public spaces like restaurants and hotels that like to bring a bit of fun into their spaces.
Nörk Rack Rope is incredibly strong and lightweight. It can support human weight at great heights. The hooks that turn the technically advanced ropes into cleverly designed house accessories—including this clothes hanger—are the result of long research into mountaineering equipment, nautical tools and rescue work. The hooks move easily up and down, so that it is comfortable for both kinds and grownups. Nörk Rack is designed to hang from the ceiling or a beam, is easy to move from one place to another and discrete enough to take up minimal space.
MARIA RÄSTA Maria Rästa studied furniture design at Tartu Art College and followed on at the Kuopio Design Academy in product and interior design. Drawing and constructing was already a strength in childhood. Rästa pursued design out of her love for creating new things. Maria’s father built stools, benches and closets in their country home during the summer, passing along his experience to Maria. During her studies Rästa undertook practical work in addition to developing creativity both in designing and restoring. Maria uses her company Maria Rästa Design OÜ primarily to design furniture and interior elements, liking most to create playful and enjoyable things.
Stool CHICK Rästa created the stool Chick in 2008. At that time, Maria was enthusiastic about minimalism and her first sketches were very geometric and easy. Her tutor advised her to look for interesting forms and to produce something “weird”. For fun she added a beak and paws to a shape. Chick hatched from this gesture. At first, Maria planned to make the legs from wood as well, but ultimately she decided to use metal legs. She chose precious wood – mahogany – for the beak. This added value to the product and a beautiful colour. When it reached production, she chose glue-laminated birch for the seat instead of a single piece because of the risk of the timber splitting. A small edition of Chicks were also produced using a seat of birch plywood with stripes from the plywood along the edge. Over time Rästa has improved the production technology while looking for better solutions. The Chick is now produced in small editions and has found owners in different European countries, the USA and also Russia. The Chick is not just a stool anymore, but also a small decorative element used like a small dish beside a sofa, as a bedside stand, as a footrest in front of an armchair, to display flowers or just as a delightful sight. Chick manages to make people smile and maybe remind them of something fun from their childhood.
MARTIN TAUTS Martin is an industrial design graduate from Design Centre Enmore, Sydney, Australia. In early 2015, he started his design firm Red Block, which is currently based in Newcastle, Australia. Martin has exhibited his furniture and lighting works in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane this year and has been a finalist in various design competitions in Australia, including his most recent shortlist to win the "emerging designer" category at the 2016 IDEA Awards.
PAC pendant The PAC pendant light is designed to stand alone as feature piece or formed into a cluster of pendants to creating abstract compositions. The use of bright and contrasting colours is intended to subtly reference the fun style of the 70’s. The PAC pendant comes in a variety of bamboo-ply or cork wrapped with a thin coat of powdered aluminum. Tauts chose bamboo not only because of its durability, but for its sustainability. For CNC production Tauts designed a cutting plan with parts well nested, minimising wastage and maximising the use of every bamboo sheet. Aluminium was selected due to its 100% recyclable capability. www.redblock.com.au
MAIT SUMMATAVET Interior architect, designer, professor emeritus: Mait Summatavet’s half-century-long career stretches to the mid1960s. For long now Summatavet has been one of the most consistent designers of lightning fixtures and has delivered remarkable creations for public, cultural and ceremonial spaces, producing furniture, exhibition designs and display fixtures. In addition to his work as a designer, Summatavet also taught at the Estonian Academy of Art, shaping Estonian design for many decades. Mait was the first designer in the former Soviet Union to have a personal exhibition; his designs and interior architecture were presented at the Central House of Artists in Moscow in 1986. Cultural architectural spaces and exhibition design marked a most significant field for him, with Summatavet often simultaniously designing the overall concept of the exhibition as well as the lighting and the display fixtures. This included expos in Tokyo, Japan and Spokane in the United States. From the 1990s he designed many interiors including the Bank of Estonia, the residence of the President of Estonia, and other Estonian national monuments, all the while continuing to create lighting fixtures. Over this span he produced more than 70 fixture prototypes.
"W" The product series “W” includes the optional element of Summatavet’s 1967 pendant lamp “ALBERT” initially designed for a 100 W lightbulb. The underlying concept of “W” is light: and the innovational aspect comes from the lighting capability, or the maximum use of the light potential of the lamps. Its effectiveness is gained by careful adherence to rules of physics. The reflection angles of the light have been calculated to the maximum, taking into account the specific lamp and the form of the lighting figure. These are used energy-saving compact fluorescent lamps operating on batteries and dubbled by LED, and are fully dimmable. Material: polished and enamelled aluminium.
Margus Triibman Margus Triibmann graduated from Tallinn Technical Univeristy with a master´s degree in civil engineering. He is the owner of a Tallinn-based product design company KEHA3, working as an engineer and a designer. The design office has two directions: to offer design services and to produce its own products. All designs aim at adding functional and durable products to public space that support, create and assert local identity as this is important in our current fast-paced, superficial, increasingly plain and rushing space.
BRANCH ChandelieR The black branch chandelier by KEHA3 mimics the organic shape of a tree’s boughs by arranging aluminum tubes into a complex composition. The whole concept of the branch chandelier is based on the profile named Wannabe, which was also developed by KEHA3. The idea is to easily construct unique and non-recurring forms of lighting that in the end make up a luminaire family of the Wannabe profile. The Y-shaped constructional elements of the boughs can be bent and rotated into different positions. The Branch Chandelier represents functional rationality, which – in KEHA3’s opinion – is something that we comprehend in industrial aesthetics. As the world around us is in constant change, the luminaires must keep up and change with it. The former flamboyant luminaire which demonstrated wealth, power, and festivity has evolved into an object that carries a modern message of recycling (aluminium), reduction (LED, DIM) and conservancy (branch), extolling functional rationality. The LED elements with KEHA3 Wannabee profile are equipped with a mechanical dimming system, which allows one to choose suitable light intensity for creating the mood in a room. Power fittings and head controllers are located in the hanging knapsack.
Bicycle rack Tulip Fan Fan 2 Tulip Fan Fan is elastic and safe rack resembling a meadow. Tulip Fan Fan provides freedom to choose the way and direction of placing the bike. The fixing place of the bike is not uniquely determined hence it is suitable for fixing bikes with different height and different type of frame. www.keha3.ee
The selection of KEHA3 products vary from city furniture, interior and exterior lighting designs and street equipment to interior design elements. Every developable technical solution can be used by all products of a product family and the designs can be easily adjusted to meet the customer’s wishes. Triibmann's products are characterised by smart simplicity, playfulness and functionality. He has picked all design awards issued in Estonia.
Margot Vaaderpass / WOH Initially trained in Denmark, the young Estonian fashion designer Margot Vaaderpaas won a scholarship to IED Barcelona to study womenswear and fashion design. During years of practice at studios in Estonia she developed an interest in sustainability, moving up to design for the high-end and pedigreed Estonian brand Ivo Nikkolo. Vaaderpaas founded Warmth of Home at the same time, beginning to work with product design in order to find an outlet for her interest in interiors. Her felt-like hangers attracted enough attention to enable further designs, which Vaaderpaas continues to develop while pursuing further studies at the Royal College of Art in London.
WOH - The Warmth of Home Felt Hanger The Warmth of Home Felt Hanger acts as a flagship of the company designs. It was born from the need for a clothes hanger that keeps garments safely in place and in original shape. The WOH Felt Hanger features a non-slippery surface made out of PET felt that consists of up to 70% of recycled plastics. There are hangers for each type of garment, but they are best suited for knitwear and heavy garments that tend to lose their shape with time. PET felt and wooden cover with oak texture.
Felt Storage Stool The Warmth of Home Felt Storage Stool is a practical storage space that can also be used as a stool or a small table. Made out of PET felt, which consists of up to 70% of recycled plastics, the Felt Storage Tool comes with beautiful wooden cover and oak texture. It is available in different colours to harmonize with different spaces. www.woh.ee
Mihkel MassO Mihkel Masso trained in product design and architecture at the Estonian Academy of Arts and ÉSAD Orléans before taking up industrial design at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. Working now with several Estonian companies Masso focuses on balance and harmony between practical functions and substantiated aesthetics, believing that the most important value of a product is the experience the product offers to the user and environment. He has produced interior and experience design solutions for the clubs Hoov, Hetk and the pop-up club Välk.
HUUM Drop The HUUM DROP sauna heater delivers a unique sauna experience built on thousand-year old traditions combined with modern technologies and contemporary. Nordic design. The heater relies on a constructive concept in which an electrical sauna heater produces steam as pleasant and long-lasting as wood-burning heaters. There are fewer metal parts and additional room for stones HUUM DROP accommodates 55 kg of stones (120 pounds), instead of the normal 20–30 kg. Its oval form is inspired by the pleasant and soft experience that the sauna provides. This shape also provides the most optimal constructive solution – a metal frame which resembles a human riib-cage or a person’s arms holding stones. The heater can be controlled via a smart-phone application. www.mihkelmasso.com
KAIRI KUUSKOR, JANNO NÕU and HARUHARU Kairi Kuuskor and Janno Nõu have both studied at the Estonian Academy of Arts and Hochschule für Gestaltung Germany. Kairi is a creative entrepreneur and the co-founder of a successful design exporter Bold Tuesday. Janno works at Iseasi, one of the most established product design offices in Estonia and teaches design students both in Tallinn Technical University and Estonian Academy of Arts.
Grown Coathanger The grown coathangers project started out as an experiment with living design but grew into an unconventional production method. Since the branches are modelled without any steaming and only the trees’ own moisture is used, it has set seasonal limits to the process and taught the designers to work in coherence with the forest’s growth cycles. And in case you’re wondering – yes, the hangers are quite sturdy.
IGOR VOLKOV Igor Volkov knows how to find smart solutions, synthesizing hard work and flashes of insight. Everything he creates is based on simple ideas. His work is technologically easy to realise, relying on two-thirds design and one-third technology. Products with witty construction and a fresh and eager thought, shapes and colours consistently aesthetically pleasing, Volkov gets the most from his favourite material: plywood. Volkov graduated in product design, bolstering his studies as an exchange student at the University of Art and Design Helsinki. Igor has collaborated with several Estonian and European companies and currently creates his designs under the LUM trademark.
Cup and ROLL Bin Waste Bins: The ROLL paper bin is made of a single piece of birch plywood, providing a stylish way to dispose of waste paper. ROLL is perfect for homes and offices. Materials: natural birch aeroplane plywood, no finishing. Material: Birch plywood.
Solid Wood Table Clock A small yet beautifully crafted clock, this design by LUM has a thick wooden face with natural wood grain pattern and precise wooden dials. The wood will continue to deepen with age and will develop a lovely wood grain with the passing of time.
Anton Koovit Anton Koovit was born in Tallinn, Estonia in 1981. He studied graphic design at the Estonian Academy of Arts, ESAG Paris and Gerrit Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam, Holland. After finishing his BA studies in 2005, Koovit continued to specialize in Type and Media (KABK) in The Hague, Holland. In 2006 he set up a design company Khork OÜ and moved to Berlin, Germany in 2007. In 2012, together with Yassin Baggar, Koovit started the digital type foundry Fatype, with a growing library of typefaces: Adam, U8, Beausite, Aleksei, Arvo, Baton, Laplace...
U8, a geometric sans serif with seven weights Koovit started U8 as a research project about the Berlin subway system signage, particularly the U8 that connects the northern borough of Reinickendorf with Neukölln in the southern part of the city through the Alexanderplatz junction. His goals were to restore a piece of history, to research the link between the DIN and Bauhaus, and to translate the lettering of individual handcrafted station signage into a formal typeface. Apart from the regular weight upper and lower-case, glyphs such as numbers and other weights had to be created by the designer, allowing for Koovit’s contemporary interpretation. The result is an early modernist typeface, with wider proportions than most common geometric sans, a strong character and a clean design. Initially intended for display purposes, U8 has also proven to work well in many different text sizes. www.korkork.com
bold tuesday Bold Tuesday is a studio that creates interactive design maps. It was started by the two young Estonian designers, Kairi Kuuskor and Markus Marks, in 2013. What begain as a small project quickly grew, gaining international attention with original ideas and sleek style. Their minimalist monochrome maps work perfectly in interior design, adding personality and allowing map owners to exhibit their adventures. One can also find different kinds of infographics and prints from Bold Tuesday’s collection, with something for almost everyone: who hasn’t found themselves sitting behind a desk in an office, dreaming about exploring the world instead? If the desk won’t go away, at least there’s a print above it that can can express alternate desires.
Go! World Keep a visual reminder of your travels by peeling away each visited country. At first, the poster is all black. The more you travel, the more white space is revealed. The aesthetically stark difference between the areas seen and those not yet discovered increases as your adventures expand. 3M premium quality vinyl.
List of Countries The world simplified, beautified, and reorganized by true size to invoke a fresh cosmopolitan perspective. Whether you’re a design-lover, globetrotter, or information-gatherer, it’s your unique and stylish reminder to see the world differently. Sustainably sourced high quality paper. www.boldtuesday.com
ÜLLAR KARRO Üllar Karro is an engineer, designer and technologist familiar with the technologies, materials and know-how for sustainable production. Karro began designing at the end of the 1980s. Üllar went on to work with the Finnish designer Ristomatti Ratia, leading to a projects all over the world. In 2000 Üllar began designing EKO private modular houses, of which there are now about 250 in Estonia. His E-Roll work, however, marks a turn back to industrial design.
The E-ROLL The E-ROLL is single passenger, two-wheeled, small and lightweight electric vehicle. Technical specifications allow for navigating bicycle lanes, and the scooter does not require a license, insurance or vehicle registration. This small moped class is essentially equivalent to a bicycle. The design does not place restrictions on clothing, it protects against dirt and can be driven in a suit or a dress. E-Roll embodies a modern retro style. The goal is to achieve a timeless, simple and memorable form: a dominant L-shape. The objective of creating a moped with a smaller axel-width led to a solution where the rider’s legs are as close to the front wheel as possible. Differing from conventional solutions the front fork and frame connection is brought to two sides of the wheel, maintaining the necessary turn radius and creating leg space. Batteries are located low under the feet to improve handling.
MATTI ÕUNAPUU Matti Õunapuu took a degree in industrial design from the Estonian Academy of Arts in the mid-70s and from there participated in several town design and planning projects, including the design of a pedestal for the Olympic flame at the yachting regatta in Tallinn as part of the 1980 games. At the Russian Tupolev home appliance factory, Matti then participated in over 200 design projects ranging from kitchen equipment to mobile homes. The Finnish Helkama Group collaborated with Matti to produce original designs for refrigerators and electric stoves, and Matti has been part in creating designs for many innovative appliances and machinery since. Õunapuu founded the design studio MaDis and from it has produced items from auto rooftop storage boxes and cloth mannequins to front panels for cash machines. Matti has also created designs for Balteco bathtubs using Xonyc stone mass, a new technology. Together with Estonian company Curonia Research he developed a pioneering appliance, doc@ Home, which enables patients to monitor their health at home. His Stigo e-scooter project begain in cooperation with Curonia Research in 2010, following with the mass production of Stigos in 2016.
Stigo e-scooter Developed in response to increasing traffic jams and the lack of parking space which has created an untapped market segment, Stigo’s vision is to offer freedome of movement to commuters in dense urban areas who face limited parking, recharging and storage options for their two-wheelers. Its design is based on function, ergonomics and simplicity; the result is stylish and environmentally friendly. The Stigo e-scooter is portable so no parking space is required. It can be folded in just two simple moves. It can be pulled along like hand luggage indoors or outdoors. Stigo is the lightest and most ergonomic of its kind, lending ease and comfort even while hitting speeds of 25 km/h (15 mph) on a single charge. Stigo is one of the few portable e-scooters to meet EU legislative norms and is street legal. It produces no emissions, needs no combustible fuel, makes almost no noise and it can be charged from a regular outlet. Material: aluminum. www.stigobike.com
ANDRES UIBOMÄE Uibomäe studied as an industrial designer after spending all of his time as a teenager riding motorcycles, repairing them or rebuilding them. His overwhelming passion for motorcycles and so-far unrealized creative ambitions are the reasons behind the revival of Renard. Estonia lacks its own motorcycle industry: the only possible way for Andres was to start one. As someone once beautifully said: four wheels move your body but two wheels move your soul.
Renard A motorcycle should be more than just transportation. Our intention is to create something more than a bike. Our goal is to create the ultimate motorcycle. The Renard Grand Tourer is a sporty power cruiser, a symbol of individuality and power, with best-in-class handling and built with quality. The DNA of the Renard Grand Tourer is engineering intelligence – an ultra-light composite unibody, longitudinally mounted engine and components which represent the cutting edge of the motorcycle industry. The sturdy body shell, reduced rotational masses and low center of gravity mean that the Renard GT rider will enjoy total control during every maneuver. This is a surgeon’s blade on two wheels, providing you with a complete and powerful riding experience.
Indrek Narusk Born in 1982 in Tallinn, Estonia, Indrek Narusk has been drawing and engineering since learning to use a pen and play with Lego. Narusk started working as a mechanical engineer for a die and tool manufacturing company while still studying at Tallinn Technical University. After finishing his thesis in full-suspension mountain bike frames and graduating in 2007, Narusk started an engineering services company that quickly grew into one of the world’s largest online engineering communities: GrabCAD (grabcad.com). Long an avid cyclist and leaving GrabCAD in 2012, he then dedicated himself to his company, Velonia Bicycles. Narusk has experience in the development of technical solutions and in international marketing as well as in the field of aerodynamics and design. Now teaching bike frame design at the Estonian Academy of Arts, Narusk is garnering accolades. Velonia Bicycles’ road frame RD01 was a finalist at the Estonian design awards in 2010, as was Viks in 2014. The Viks bicycle was selected as one of the top 10 bicycle designs in 2013 by Designboom, again in 2014 with the Viks “Anniveloversary” edition and again in 2015 with the Viks Carbon Edition. BBC WORLD picked Viks amongst the top 10 world’s most beautiful bicycles in 2014.
Viks GT Awarded “Best Urban Bike” at this year’s Cyclingworld Düsseldorf exhibition, this catalyst for the re-invention of the Estonian bike industry produces a bicycle for the modern-day commuter. Every Viks is crafted by hand to individual order. Viks wasn’t created to be an attention-seeker, but it still turns heads whether being ridden or simply parked outside a cafe. In Estonian, “viks” means classy, gentlemanlike. At the same time, it sounds like “fixed”, as in fixed gear. This was the initial idea – a fixed gear commuter. Today it’s much more than that. Velonia Bicycles encourages customers to get involved in the process and work closely with them to create the most beautiful bike possible. The café racer’s low handlebars, stainless steel or aluminum alloy frame and unlimited customization makes it even more unique and personal. Viks is the perfect vehicle for the conscious big city commuter. It will take you anywhere you need with a very special flair. www.viks.cc
MARTIN LAZAREV, ARGO MÄNNISTE Martin Lazarev studied furniture design and restoring in the Tartu Art School but then moved smoothly into graphic design. In Estonia Lazarev worked in several reputable advertising agencies as a designer, art director and illustrator.Even so, he is better known as a photographer. After travelling to Brazil years ago, he eventually decided to move there. Now he works there as a graphic designer and continues his photography projects.
+iD USB Smart Card Reader Inventor: Martin Lazarev / Industrial design: Argo Männiste
+iD USB Smart Card Reader A modern ergonomic design with the latest technology provides a suitable solution for demanding environments. Carefully engineered to be the smallest device of its kind available on the market for full size (ID1) smart card readers, the +iD, with its size fitting into your wallet, is not just about what’s possible, but what’s useful. Producer. It is the official reader for Estonia’s E-residency program 2015. www.pluss-id.com
The idea to create a nice ID card reader came into his mind during a Brazilian photo trip when it was necessary to get rid of wires. Lazarev needed help in order to realise his idea, making design sketches and showing them to acquaintances. Half a year passed before his friend Argo Männiste agreed to help, taking on the role as development manager. The ID card reader now draws orders in from around the world.
Mihkel Güsson Mihkel Güsson is an Estonian industrial designer and recent Estonian Academy of Arts graduate. Joining in with a vibrant startup scene, Güsson created the Shaka wind meter and weather station device with Raigo Raamat and Jens Kasemets. Currently Güsson is an active designer at the industrial design bureau Ten Twelve. tentwelve.ee
Mihkel Güsson, Helene Vetik, Karl Saluveer, Indrek Rebane, Siim Ainsaar, Mihkel Heidelberg, Tanel Luure, Erich Jagomägi
Shaka Wind Meter and Shaka Weather Station These two tools are variations of a new type of weather sensor that plugs into a smartphone or tablet and turns it into a weather-monitoring device. Shaka is a product service system where weather information is collected and can be shared. The new, crowdsourced weather network is powered by a myriad of uses ranging from wind sports to agriculture. Having access to smartphone hardware enables the product to be smaller and cheaper for the user. Using a smartphone makes it possible for the user to change the program and enjoy different functions: one app for a crowdsourced surfing map and another app for construction. Shaka sold in more than 50 countries around the world after its launch in 2013 although the founders have decided not to continue with its development.
Huum sauna remote control, UKU Uku is aimed at changing the way you heat your sauna forever. Imagine yourself out exercising or enduring a long day at the office. A few taps on the Huum mobile app and the sauna will be warm when you get home. The control console Uku combines ease of use and safety, intuitive from the first time out of the box. It comes equipped with child safety lock, door sensor and overheating protection.
JAANUS TAMME Jaanus Tamme has been an engineer and architect for over 20 years. Career started in various agencies and freelancers until he decided to put his energy into the advertising agency TANK, where he worked for nearly 15 years as an AD and, as a creative director. Several years ago Jaanus made a turning point and decided to combine his experience in the field of architecture and communication and founded Sailinvest, which is currently engaged in a phenomenon such as City Marketing. Optionally engaged in branding and communication advisor. The main activity is the development of the Noblessner Harbor Quarter in Tallinn and he is also consult on the re-positioning and development of the port city of Shanghai.
Spider Block ROPEYE A lightweight low-friction pulley for heavy loads which spins on thin ‘dyneema’ web structure. This evolutionary block / pulley replaces an ordinary ball-bearing solution. The thin spider-web structure inside the block gives enourmous strength which handles heavy loads. The diagonal web structure spreads the load over 40 different locations at once, giving a smooth, low-friction spin. Materials: Dyneema mixed with Spectra (web structure inside). Aluminium sides and ring. Innovation: engineering solution, no ball-bearings, thin spider web structure gives enormous strenght on high loadings, web diagonal structure which gives ultra low friction, easy to assamble (No bolts, screws, nuts and washers needed). Usages: Yachting industry, Marine Industry, Construction industry, Oil and Gas Industry, Military Industry. BRUNO award 2016- honourable mention.
Ropeye PRO Loop Single-point soft-attach padeye for heavy loads. Watertight and lightweight innovative fastening solution. Materials: - Main Product (Loop and Pad): Carbon fibre, dyneema SK90 - Accessories (Ring and TDP): Aluminium Innovation: - Engineering solution - Materials used - Moulding method (dyneema rope + carbon moulding) - Idea of spreading the loads Ropeye product advantages: - 3 times stronger than metal solution - 5 times lighter than metal solution - 1 detail (Ropeye) versus 12 details metal solution - Only 1 installation hole needed versus 3 or more for metal solution - No bolts, screws, nuts and washers needed - 1 loading point for all loading directions - Curved pad which distributes live loads evenly to the wider area - Soft hook (loop) which is stronger than steel Watertight connection - No rust or corrosion. Actual sales: worldwide Patent: Ropeye Loop is under World-Wide patent R&D and production: The engineering, R&D, product design, production, sales and communication are based in Estonia. www.ropeye.com
JANNO JÕULU / assistant technique
EGERT UIBO Egert is a product designer and has deep experience in designing and prototyping industrial concepts for clients in both close to Estonia and further abroad. Uibo is now working in Ten Twelve, an Estonian based product development company where he has been a part of projects with clients who are active in the fields of consumer electronics and health care. He enjoys making great concepts come to life as solutions.
Huntloc This app is a tool for following retrievers in the forest using GPS-GSM technology. The application runs on smartphones—the dogs' location can be viewed on the screen in real time. It’s also possible to call the dog and listen to what's happening in the surroundings, as well as give commands through the device. To guarantee the best GPS-GSM signal, the device has been built in two parts what fit easily around the dog's neck making sure the antennae are always facing upwards. Tough working conditions are where Huntloc excels. The overmolded casings, are water and shock resistant and don't have any protruding parts that would restrict the mobility of the dog. Three signal lights show the device's operating status and make the dog visible in the dark. A changeable collar enables using the device on both small and large dogs. There are 70 million hunters and 10 million dogs in this market, but Huntloc can also be used in other fields like security and the police, emergency services and border patrols, even for guarding pets. It is half the price of its competitors and the sales success of the previous models in this family predict considerable success to come. tentwelve.ee
Mihkel Mäll, Mihkel-Emil Mikk Mihkel Mäll and Mihkel-Emil Mikk are industrial designers who run a common industrial design studio MI/KL. Our background is industrial design and we both have our spcialities. Mihkel Mäll is our form guy with great sense of proportions and sketching skills to match. Mihkel-Emil Mikk is more on the technical side to see how to construct things and make nice sketches happen. Both of us like to base their work on actual user needs and result of every product should be functional.
Fieldman Xv1 A focus measurement device for a cinema camera operator's first assistant helps to establish style and lower production costs. Focusing is still done manually in the professional settings by the camera operator's first assistant. It’s necessary to know the distance of the subject or object of intrest at any given moment for correct results. This device gives the user readouts of distances and feedback on selected object. This helps to reduce the amount of mistakes on the set, specifically on during difficult shots where the object of intrest and camera are both in constant movement. Better feedback and accuracy allows shallow depth of field even in documentary or sports. The tracker, which consists of two modules, a control unit and sensor unit, also allows usage as an intelligent autofocus system. The device establishes a familiar experience and is intuitive in profesional settings. It is developed to be compatible with all commonly used camera equipment. The tool was developed hand-in-hand with users and through a number of iterations. BRUNO Award 2016.
Velkur Velkur is a modern development of the traditional reflector. While a classical reflector works when direct light is cast on it, the Velkur is a lightsource itself. Velkur is designed to make a person visible on dark streets and roads, while being only a modest accessory to clothing.Its full-leather finish is elegant and fits to any outfit. Winner of gift's competition 2016.
ANNE-LIIS LEHT KRISTI RINGKJOB Anne-Liis Leht and Kristi Ringkjob (Annkris-Glass) believe that a unique item is more valuable than mass production. Their products are finished as high-quality handicraft. The principle of their work is to join functionality and aesthetics in the best possible way. Glass is a very technical and complicated material. The realisation of every idea is a challenge. But nothing is ever boring and the desire to outsmart the material and to realize all their ideas remains—and they have plenty of ideas. Anne-Liis and Kristi studied together at the Estonian Academy of Arts and after graduation, they founded their studio. Annkris-Glass produces several necessities and interior elements from glass; when possible, they work together with creative people from other fields. They have the ability to see things from a different angle and to pose questions in a new way.
Dish EGG The idea for “Egg” was born from working. Anne-Liis Leht and Kristi Ringkjob were actually experimenting with a dish inspired by a colour palette with six different coloured rings. It was already late in the evening and they were hungry, not having the energy to cut out and polish six different rings from glass. The idea came to do less: just one yellow and one larger white ring. Logic said that it wouldl be ready sooner, the better to go home to eat. “Egg” was born. Opaque glass in different shades was used to make the dish. Black glass is de-polished to highlight the dish idea in a better way; the white and the yellow glass are shiny. “Egg” is suitable for serving salads and snacks and is dishwasher-safe. Material: material: fused and sandblasted glass.
PLATE MITTENS "Käpik" ja “Käpikud” Colourful patterned mittens knitted by our grandmothers remain a warm memory from our childhood. The love and warmth associated with the mittens also symbolise the hard-working hands of our grandmothers that knitted selflessly in a rocking chair. Mittens are characteristic of the countries where the winters are harsh: in addition to practical use, they have emotional value. Mittens carry warm words and best intentions and often mean a lot more to the wearer than a simple commodity.
LIISU ARRO Liisu Arro is a ceramist and is the creator and head designer of Arro Keraamika. Arro Keraamika produces high-end porcelain tableware using work from three generations of artists in the same family Arro Keraamika represents a playful and colourful Nordic style. The tableware is luxurious and unconventional, elegant with a bohemian twist, and will turn every simple eating ritual into an artistic experience.
Arro Keraamika – Bohemian Luxury We believe in love that lasts a lifetime: our tableware is made of highest quality porcelain. We believe that time is the most expensive commodity: tableware can be washed in a dishwasher. Life is full of compromises: we don’t want to make any when it comes to our tableware. We would rather produce less but with higher quality. We don’t actually want it all: we just want the best. We aim to make everyday rituals more special, so the ordinary becomes extraordinary.
KARMEN SAAT Karmen studied arts in England for 6 years. She pursued glass design in Sweden and practised in the Netherlands, where she started her own design studio. By now she has turned back to her roots and currently her studio is based in Estonia.
Rotten Beauty- Pink Edition Rotten Fruits and vegetables have been used as models to capture the naturally beautiful process of decay. Casting comes at the time when the rotting is most beautiful and intense to really show off the beauty of decay. The use of clay enhances the fragility and preciousness of the textures. At the same time making the vessel hygenic and usable. The Collection consists of large jackfruit, watermelon, pumpkin, red pepper and a small mango.
Kärt Ojavee Kärt is a textile designer working on several projects at once. Currently she is leading the KO! brand and is also engaged in a project called SymbiosisO. While SymbiosisO concentrates on experiments and future visions offering technically more complicated and interactive results, KO! is a brand that aims to develop products for market. The KO! product range includes, for example, textiles that change in the sunlight.
FIRST VIEWS ON MARS Cushions featuring landscapes derived from natural surfaces, close-ups and panoramas that could also be seen on another planet: Mars. Ojavee employed laser-cutting techniques to make the woollen felted surface foldable. This makes it possible to give new forms and characteristics to any object in an interior when covered with the fabric. Materials: 100 percent wool, laser cut.
Sun-sensitive pillow case Magic: pattern appearing in sunlight. Pattern: hand printed sun-sensitive (combined inks).
Mare kelpman The mare kelpman tekstiilistuudio brand "kelpman textile" offers high quality interior and garment accessories. The key words are quality and longlasting materials, limited quantities, unisex and vintage. The studio uses local European producers: all items are produced in the local regions. Textiles are woven using old-school industrial weaving machines. Scarves and blankets are mostly made of 100 percent wool. Thick silk, thin linen and glowing hightech materials are also woven. Most of the items are unisex, many have a vintage touch and many are inspired by childhood. Design and colour combinations are available in limited quantities. All fabric and product designs are developed by Mare Kelpman. The owner and designer of the studio, Mare Kelpman, has been teaching as a professor for many years; she has taken part in many international exhibitions and won prestigious awards.
Plaids HERBAL, HARLEQUIN Woollen plaids are woven from quality yarns in small quantities using oldschool weaving machines. A minimalist use of colour and pattern characterizes a Nordic temperament. Black, white and shades of grey suit modern interiors. Green expresses a longing for spring. Plaids are exceptionally soft and lightweight.
Coats Kelpman textile Coats are created with people in mind who appreciate freedom and creativity. The clients of kelpman textile have the courage to stand out from the crowd and value the charm of natural materials. The collections are continually being updated while the style remains the same with patterns and materials that are timeless. The vintage feel is an intentional design element.
In seeking possible applications for her textiles, Mare Kelpman made a smooth transition from accessories to clothing. Her aim was not so much to produce fashion items, but to create comfortable, warm and healthy clothing suited for a northern climate. www.marekelpman.eu
KÄRT PÕLDMANN Kärt Põldmann is one of four emerging designers whose display “KAAMOS. Fashion Now: Estonia” won the main prize at the International Fashion Showcase during London Fashion Week in February 2014. Educated at Estonia’s Tartu Art College and the Estonian Academy of Arts, Põldmann approached local cobblers in 2012 to refine artisinal production methods in order to complement a footwear collection she was developing. Collaborating with handicrafts encouraged Põldmann to produce bespoke and limited-edition collections. She believes that the process of crafting footwear close to her heritage is a significant aspect of her work. Every pair is individually crafted. Põldmann wants to bring the golden ideals to the present, combining dreamy magic and everyday reality
Collection of shoes Made In Handmade shoes incorporating golden age ideas while reflecting on the present, Kärt Põldmann’s footwear collection is driven by modern interpretations of another generation. Each pair of Põldmann’s shoes are individually crafted by local shoemakers, using only the finest quality leathers from premium Italian tanneries. Working with local cobblers, Põldmann refined a unique production method for the creation of her collection, while her heritage continues to significantly influence her designs. “Timeless shoes are simple and quiet, with an expressive mood to attract. Like a twinkle in the eyes, secretly gliding from modesty to the opposite extreme. This is where a humble impression becomes a seductive glance that moves and empowers. These shoes are made in love.”
SILLE SIKMANN Sille Sikmann is a footwear and accessory designer who studied leather design at Tartu Art College and in Finland and was tutored by designer Anna Zaboeva in Budapest, Hungary. Sille created the trademark Scheckmann which quickly established itself in Estonia as a known brand for men’s footwear and accessories as handicraft. Sikmann’s footwear gained nominations at the Estonian Design Awards 2012 in two categories: SÄSI young designer and the Bruno overall design award.
Bespoke shoes and handmade accessories from the Scheckmann brand for men Bespoke shoes and handmade accessories from the Scheckmann brand for men. Since she became aware of the moderate choice of models for men in shoe stores, she conducted a market survey to research footwear preferences among Nordic men. It became evident that men would like an exclusive and original niche brand that offers a wide choice of colours, are more comfortable and make them feel special. Since becoming aware of the moderate choice of models for men in shoe stores, Scheckmann conducted a market survey for footwear preferences. The results were clear: men would like an exclusive and original niche brand that offers a wide choice of colours, are more comfortable and make them feel special.
MAARJA LINSI
Examples of details: Laser cut upper, lining, midsole, insole and 3D printed outsole, toe puff and counter stiffener.
Shoes These shoes were designed and made for Linsi’s diploma thesis at Tartu Art College. Her research explored the development and problems of the footwear industry. Which technology-based changes in footwear production and more sustainable material uses will help to create new-generation footwear, manufactured faster while reducing harmful effects to the environment? The upper details here are made of cork, cork textile, felt and cellulose paper and cut with a laser cutter. Outsoles, toe puffs and counter stiffeners are 3D printed from bioplastic. The design of the shoes is inspired by the process. Characteristic lines, curves and layers of digital technologies are mixed with natural materials. The result is a pair of casual shoes.
Maarja Linsi began her design studies in the textile department of Tartu Art College and found her passion in footwear design. The initial idea of making shoes from textiles and other alternatives to leather developed into an interest in applying 3D technologies to footwear. How to connect the values of materials and digital technologies? Digital design and technology have become important parts of production. Design processes are changing, becoming more computerised and consumer-centred. This can help to create more personal and comfortable footwear. Maarja continues to pursue studies at the Estonian Academy of Arts and to research the possibilities for digital technologies and environmentally friendly materials in footwear design.
KASPAR PAAS There was a time when Kaspar Paas could not find any shoes for himself in the shops. With the advice and help from local shoemakers he made a pair for himself. Shoemaking became his hobby. Locally he could only learn how to make "Stuck on construction" shoes or using wooden pegs for putting on the soles. Since he could not find the “know-how” in Estonia for how making shoes using the traditional handsewn welt and stitched sole, he looked abroad. In 2007 he ended up in London and had the opportunity to do an apprenticeship with John Lobb Bootmaker at St. James’s. It which lasted three and a half years. He stayed on with Lobb and began to make shoes for his private customers."
Handmade Men’s Shoes Handmade shoes give the opportunity to reuse a shoe’s upper and other components for a very long time. If the soles wear out, new ones can be stitched on. Other parts of the shoe are easily mended, reused or replaced, thus making bespoke footwear sustainable. With age and wear the shoes will also build up their own patina and character that will clearly distinguish them from factory-produced shoes.
KÄRT SUMMATAVET PhD Kärt Summatavet is an art professor, a metal artist, a research fellow, a project manager, a curriculum manager, an entrepreneur, an expert-counsellor, a designer and an inventor. Filling all these roles at once requires an intelligent approach to living. Maybe this was the reason why her doctoral thesis was awarded the European Union prize for innovators and female inventors for her method of jewellery production. Summatavet produces jewellery that looks like one-off art jewellery but is created industrially using series production. Kärt now uses her inventions in her company EHEsummatavet to produce jewellery and prepare experimental fashion collections. Kärt Summatavet’s work has been exhibited in galleries and museums in the USA, England, Germany, Russia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Hungary, Poland, Latvia, Slovenia, China and Korea.
Primordial Dreams This series of earrings, pendants and brooches is inspired by archaic songs about the Estonian mythological world view and ancient stories about the creation of the world. In the modern world we often forget our sensitivity and sense of humor as a source of innovation and creativeness. An epic or a myth as an ancient story provides core symbols for identities and function as master-narratives for many cultures. It is not easy to depict an epic because any supernatural and grand narrative is a multi-layered, living organism, a big story, a wide ancient landscape arranged by human imagination. This collection reflects secrets, values, archetypes, dream landscapes and symbols of the soul and imagination of Nordic people. It is an interpretation of heritage from the perspective of bard, storyteller, artisan and poet.
Dancers The series of brooches “Tantsivad Prossid / Dancers” was inspired by archaic Estonian cultural heritage – the magical picture world of northern natural people, local rituals and folksy humour. In the modern world, we often forget our sense of humour as a source of innovation and creativeness; it gives life power and creates harmonious life experiences. Fun and dance have ancient healing powers, and with the jewellery I try to help people recall and remember this influence.
ANU SAMARÜÜTEL Anu Samarüütel is an artist and designer living and working in Tallinn and East London. Having studied fashion design as well as industrial and graphic design, her practice spans from painting to fashion, accessories to fabric prints and illustration. Samarüütel finds Nordic minimal aesthetics very close to her heart, with colour and clear simple lines very important elements in her work. Anu prefers to produce one-off unique hand-made pieces or small limited artist editions, believing that this kind of approach is more in line with her identity as a free multidisciplinary creator, rather than trying to join in the race of the fashion industry. Samarüütel’s designs are sold in boutiques in London and Copenhagen with her main outlet for the last 13 years being the Nu Nordik boutique in Tallinn, Estonia. She continues to mix her design work with art and participates in the world touring exhibition project, New Nordic Fashion Illustration. Over the last few years, her paintings have been exhibited in galleries in the UK, Finland and Estonia.
Cubist Jewellery Series Anu began designing jewellery after graduating with an MA from Saint Martins College of Fashion. Creating jewellery gives her a sense of independence as it can be completed start to finish by one person. “Creating this way you can make decisions and changes instantly and see the results much quicker than in a fashion collection.”
Her jewellery designs are inspired by artists like Picasso, Ben Nicholson, Malevich, Rodchenko and her own large scale fashion graphics and paintings. Some of her favourite materials are cork and wood, as they can be manipulated easily without specialist equipment. As with her paintings, Samarüütel’s jewellery often explores the power of colour and shape in a playful and elegant way.
MARIA SIDORENKO Maria Sidorenko attempts to combine practical and poetical factors and find original solutions when designing tableware or objects for living environment. She is from small artistic family in Narva, Estonia. Sidorenko studied graphic design and ceramics, going abroad for tutoring at the Prague VSUP and Aalto University in Helsinki. She lives and works in Tallinn.
FARFOR FarFor is a small brand that contains different collections of tableware and functional- decorative ceramics made out of high quality porcelain. It has classical style cozy objects as well as industrial and minimalistic. Each piece is handmade and has its own story behind it. All of them can certainly find a way to be loved and used in any home.
Multifunctional Telescopic Plaster Mold The aim of this project is to create a plaster mold made of moving modules so it would be possible cast an objects with different height and pattern using minimum materials, and solve plaster mold storage problem, at the same time. Objects casted with these molds can be used as vases, pots, bowls or plates. Inspiration for prototypes was telescope. www.upstairs-shop.com
MARIANA LAAN Mariana Laan is Estonian ceramic designer who creates tableware and interior design items from a range of materials. She creates her ceramics by combining coloured porcelain, glass, concrete and a variety of other materials. Laan’s starting points for design are the special features of the material and simple geometric shapes. Her works are characterised by minimalist and strict aesthetics and have been featured in several leading Scandinavian design magazines.
Nüüd Two seemingly different materials – delicate porcelain and robust concrete — are combined in these practical porcelain platters. The platters come in three differents sizes and four colours: white, black, dark blue and pink. The platters are perfect for serving fruits, sweets and snacks; the smaller ones are also fine for holding jewellery or other small precious objects. The design is based on simple geometric forms whitout any decorations to emphasise the character and aesthetics of the materials.
On Glass This set consists of three porcelain platters with glass bottoms. The serving set can be used for interior decoration and also as tableware. Having given up on almost every kind of decorations, the set emphasizes the character and aesthetics of materials. All stages of production are performed by hand. www.nuudceramics.com
RAILI KEiV Raili Keiv is exceptionally steady when moving towards a goal. Let’s take “China meets concrete,” for example. In the studio at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, the prototype for Raili’s coffee service was born. She sent photographs of it to Italy to enter the “Trieste Contemporana” competition. The concrete plates were chosen for exhibition. After the prototype, product development followed; this took place mostly in Berlin at the Kahla china factory, where Kiev once apprenticed. She introduced the service “Concrete meets china” in Frankfurt at the exhibition of the Ambiente fair. It ervice attracted attention and curiosity and the German journal Deco Home honoured the new product with the Deco Home Award. News would soon spread to journals around the world.
Service CHINA MEETS CONCRETE Keiv’s creative inspiration for combining concrete and china came from Tallinn’s café interiors from 1955–1970, the aesthetics of which were based on using a lot of concrete. From the idea to unite concrete and china Kiev created two different series: a coffeepot with a concrete handle and a cup and experimental concrete trays where she used old china dishes.
KARL ANNUS Karl Annus began his design studies at Tartu Art College in 2005 in furniture design and restoration. He developed three custom pairs of wooden spectacles as his diploma thesis in 2010. The coverage and feedback from the final diploma exhibition guaranteed his first orders and from that point on he has employed himself as a full time craftsman of wooden spectacles. Karl continued his studies at the same time, pursuing a joint Design & Engineering master programme of Tallinn University of Technology and Estonian Academy of Arts. He earned a Master of Science and Engineering and Master of Arts degree in 2014.
GLENS Framed by Karl A trademark of wooden spectacles by craftsman Karl Annus, Framed by Karl is a combination of a significant sense of material, good craftsmanship and simple forms. The design of the frames aims to be timeless rather than following seasonal trends. Annus chooses material according to his sustainability-oriented world view, using natural precious woods for crafting the frames. Underlining the pure aesthetics of the material, it is not coloured or toned. BRUNO award 2016
Glens Glens are backup reading glasses for people who wear near-vision spectacles. Intended for shortterm use, they are an easy solution if you don’t have your prescription glasses with you. Glens backup reading glasses are made of high quality co-polyester and weight less than a gram. They are small and as thin as a credit-card: they can be placed even in the smallest wallet and left until needed again for short-term use or unexpected situations. Glens are available in three dioptric values: +1,5; +2,0; +2,5. www.karl.ee
Stella Soomlais Stella Soomlais is a leather and accessories designer from the wave of new craftsmen and fashion designers who have emerged over the last few years in Estonia. A Soomlais bag combines functionality with minimalistic aesthetics. "We take pride in the bags we make and have a great respect for the materials we use. We make sure we make use of the most of it,” Soomlais says. “The bag designs follow a sustainable design concept that we’ve developed. Within the cutting patterns we’ve fitted a number of smaller product patterns that the original product can be redesigned into. We are aiming at reaching zero waste in production. If your bag ever gets spoiled with stains that won’t come off or if you simply get bored with it, return it to us, and we will give it a new life. You’ll get a discount on its material in return or an accessory made of reused leather as a gift."
Stella Soomlais tote bag The Soomlais tote bag is designed with high quality materials in mind and in a way that details (e.g.handles and pockets) can be easily refreshed or changed when they become worn out or the customer would like something different in function or decor. When the bag has lived its life for the owner, the material can be reused for a new product, as quality leather ages beautifully and becomes even more original over time. Smart blueprinting and material selection makes this possible with a minimal loss of resources. www.stellasoomlais.com
PIRET LOOG Piret Loog is a Tallinn-based designer of leather accessories. Loog has worked as a teacher of handbag and footwear design at the Estonian Academy of Arts and has managed her own brand of leather accessories since 1998. She designs leather handbags, backpacks and shoulder bags in a minimalist Nordic style for the contemporary urbanite, functional and universal for everyday use. Loog finds balance between function, clear style and the beauty of leather as a material. Minimalist and timeless stylea is combined with high quality materials, with the collections made from calf leather. The items are handcrafted only in limited-run series.
A limited edition Piret Loog bag A limited edition Piret Loog bag, handcrafted in Estonia and on sale in Estonia and Finland. Material: Calfskin.
REET AUS PhD Reet Aus is an Estonian fashion designer who is dedicated to slow fashion. She produces using a clever design and upcycling system to mass-manufacture garments using only post-production leftovers. Aus keeps proving that clever design can salvage mountains of unused textiles and the natural resources spent to produce them.
UPMADE Reet Aus has developed an industrial upcycling method for garments that involves complete lifecycle analysis. It enables circulation of leftover materials back to production inside the same factory. The average mass-production manufacturer is left with 18 percent pre-consumer textile waste that is taken to landfill or burned. Each garment in a Reet Aus collection saves on average 75 percent in water use, 88 percent in energy and creates 80 percent less carbon dioxide.
Andres labi Andres is an award-winning designer from Estonia. He is a partner of an interior design studio, Ruumilabor (2004) and head of the design brand Tie&Apron (2013). Labi studied Urban Architecture in 2012 in Brussels at LUCA as part of a student exchange program. The same year he obtained a licence for instructing projects of architectural heritage. Over his 17-year career, Labi has gained experience in many design domains, ranging from architecture to product development, supervising students and conducting design workshops along the way. Andres has taken part in several internationally recognized design contests as part of a broader team, as with the Estonian Pavilion for EXPO 2010 in Shanghai, for example.
TIE&APRON In his best-known work, Tie&Apron, Labi turns the status symbol of a necktie into something at once decorative and functional: Tie&Apron combines the distinction of a neck tie with the utility of an apron. Whether cooking, serving or just enjoying the scene around the table, Tie&Apron turns every dinner into an extravagant moment, a sophisticated and unforgettable ritual. A tie not only makes you look smart, it is perfectly adjustable and there's no chance of accidentally dipping it in the soup. Tie&Apron is not only for men – it can be worn by anyone with style.
TANEL VEENRE Tanel Veenre lives and works in Tallinn, Estonia. He has trained as a jewellery artist (MA) at the Estonian Academy of Arts (1995–2005) and the Gerrit Rietveld Academie in Amsterdam (1997–98). Veenre’s work includes jewellery, photography and fashion; he’s been exhibiting it since 1996. Veenre is a professor of Design Faculty at the Estonian Academy of Arts. Veenre has shown his works in more than 100 solo and group exhibitions around the world, lecturing in Estonia, Scotland, Finland, Portugal,Spain, Norway, Israel and Germany. Tanel is represented by galleries in Sweden, USA, Turkey, Canada, Belgium, Latvia and Germany.
Pantone Flies
Tanel Veenre Jewellery is the whimsical and dreamy Estonian fashion jewellery brand. The slogan “Kingdom of Dreams” captures it`s pure essence – Tanel Veenre Jewellery is the allure to believe in fairies and miracles, winged seahorses and cosmic dust covered berries, like long forgotten memories from the gardens of paradise.
FRUITS OF PARADISE FRUITS OF PARADISE is all about the seductive color combinations between velvety fruity drops and sparkling stones. Peachy pink with champagne, apple green with olives, ultramarine blue with lilac, all swirl together in one of TVJ’s most entrancing series. Voluptious but lightweight, drop-parts reveal tender color gradiations. FRUITS OF PARADISE make a brightly glamorous fashion statement – it`s hard to stay unrecognizeable with these electrifying beauties. www.tanelveenre.com
SOFIA HALLIK SOMA is a Tallinn-based jewellery studio which has been creating a dreamlike world since its founding in 2014. Combining modern materials with traditional techniques and street style aesthetics, SOMA jewelery is best known for vibrant and eye-catching colour and form combinations and for its unexpected choices of materials. SOMA blends synthetic and rather rare resources in jewellery-making alongside traditional components such as precious stones, metals and wood. SOMA’s creative director Sofia Hallik, 27, is a jewellery artist whose work has been exhibited at international exhibitions in Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Brazil, UK, France, Italy and Estonia. She is currently working on a doctorate at the Estonian Academy of Arts.
PLÜSCH This series is made of wine corks covered with flock: a sustainable textile material that specifies smooth and furry surface. The PLÜSCH collection is best known for its fluffy material choice and wide range of eye-catching colours. Material: wine cork, flock, silver 925
NYMPHE This series is made of such materials as flexible rubber and ebony wood. No one initially would expect that a piece is made from rubber, moreover that it is flexible and weightless. Even slight movements of the rubber due to its flexibility is enough to prompt childish excitement. Material: ebony wood, flexible rubber, silver 925
ÖÖLOOM The average person sleeps about 200,000 hours during his or her lifetime: over 22 years in total. This is too much for sleep to be taken lightly! Ööloom is a face blanket (or a sleeping mask, if you will) that uses the ancient power of wild animals, because unlike humans, animals have never had any trouble sleeping. Ööloom sleeping masks are handmade by a small army of lovely ladies. This makes each Ööloom as precious and unique as a snowflake on the elbow of a baffled owl. www.ooloomstore.com
Karmen Heinmaa, Johan Kallas, Jan Plaan and Mihkel Virkus Ööloom was imagined and consequently brought into being by four sleepy creatives from the north. Between them, they have over 100 years of sleeping experience, which they’ve used to create something truly yawn-inspiring.
TIIU ARUOJA Tiiu Aruoja is a young leather designer who graduated in Leather Design at Tartu Art Collage in 2016 and continued her studies at Häme University of Applied Siences in shoe design. She is a freelance designer and is currently developing Talkativ, a new leather accessories brand.
Ethnographic Shoe collection Tiiu Aruoja’s shoe collection are inspired by Estonian ethnographic footwear. Aruoja has created historical footwear in contemporary way: she considers it important to offer support to the foot while, with the uppers, to let the imagination fly. Shoes with low heels are feet-friendly. Natural leather lets feet breathe. The first shoe pair is inspired by birch bark. The shoes are based on birch bark pattern and the material is vegetable-tanned leather, processed manually. Shoes are braided using oblique weaving. The second shoe pair is inspired by slippers and shoes from the Estonian island of Muhu. The materials are black and white leather and black fur leather. The sides of the shoe references the flowery upper of Muhu slippers. The third model is inspired by seal-leather peasant shoes and Finnish slippers. The material is calf leather. The shape of the shoes is moccasin-like, which comes from Finnish slipper shoes.
URMAS LÜÜS Urmas Lüüs is an Estonia-based artist and designer with a master’s degree in metal art. He loves pistachio ice cream; he’s a jewellery and blacksmithing teacher at the Estonian Academy of Arts; he makes weird industrial ambient music; is inspired by underground subcultures; he mixes music, sculpture, theater, jewellery and video into one big breathing organism. For more, please follow Urmas at instagram: byurmaslyys
Autumn Ball (brooch) Estonia is the first former Soviet country that started to discuss legalizing gay marriage. While creating the Autumn Ball brooch series Urmas lived in a suburb filled with poor Russian working class people. For him this area still carried the mentality of the past. Lüüs began to cut out hearts from old enamelled pots made in the Soviet Union: every household there had one. The very material is penetrated by the energy of totalitarianism. New, heart-shaped brooches represents the spirit of love breaking from the conservative past. Material: recycled enamelled pots from Soviet Union, steel. www.urmasluus.com
MARTIN LAZAREV AND HEIDI PAJU
MARTIN LAZAREV and HEIDI PAJU
Standfold Design Studio is combination Standfold Design Studio is combinaof simple ideas and a minimalistic but fun tion of simple ideas and minimalistic and stylish design concept. As a creative but fun and stylish design concept. team, Estonian designer and inventor Martin Lazarev creates original and new As a creative team, estonian designer design solutions for user-friendly prodand inventor Martin Lazarev creates ucts while Heidi Paju manages studio original and new design solutions for production workflow and conducts the user friendy products while Heidi Paju research. Studio aims for international manages studio production workflow market: it is based in Tallinn (Estonia) and conducts the research. and Rio de Janeiro (Brasil), mixing hottropical and nordic-cool notions.
Studio aims for international market, it is based in Tallinn (Estonia) and Rio de Iconic new-wave retro LAZ-T01 series Janeiro (Brasil) mixing the hot-tropical clock designed by Martin Lazarev has and nordic-cool notions.
easily recognizable simple silhouette, timeless design and minimal form Iconic new-wave retro LAZ-T01 series inspired by 1960-70’s style. The clock clock designed by Martin Lazarev has can be displayed either as portrait or easily recognizable simple silhouette, landscape and it harmonizes easily with timeless design and minimal form interior. It suits well to home, office, as inspired by 1960-70’s style. The clock well as to cafe.
can be displayed either as portrait or landscape and it harmonizes easily
Wallclocks are produced in Estonia, with with interior. It suits well to home, custom-made hands and employing the office, as well as to cafe. Junghands silent motor, from Germany. Dial is is cut from 2mm aluminium and Wallclocks are produced in Estonia, with either black or white powder coatcustom-made hands and Junghands ing. Size 90x40 cm.
silent motor are from Germany. Dial is is cut from 2mm aluminium and with either black or white powder coating. Size 90x40 cm.
LAZ-T01 wallclock & WALTER the silly cult toy Designed by Martin Lazarev / Standfold Design Studio / www.standfold.com
WALTER is silly but well balanced, he swings when pushed.
LAZ-T01 wallclock & WALTER the silly cult toy A toy, a decorative object, a stress reliever. Measures 190 x 4 x 1 x 17 cm WALTER is silly well balanced; he swings when 2015 pushed. A toy, a decorative object, Year design & but production: LAZ-T01 Standfold / WALTER Standfold 2017 a stress reliever. oaklaser or walnut wood. www.standfold.com Material:Material: LAZ-T01 cut aluminium + powder paint / WALTER oak or walnut wood.
VILLEM TĂ•NISBERG Villem TĂľnisberg has worked as a graphic designer for more than 20 years. A curious mind in combination of the genes of an artist and an engineer had to end up in product design though. Working with materials that have stuck around for ages and creating objects that will do the same are the main goals. His love of exposed materials and simple shapes earned him a nomination for the Estonian Design Awards Bruno in 2016.
Bowl KRANTZ A revolution among pet bowls: the end of travelling dishes! Krantz's hand-poured concrete bowls are nice and heavy, remain right-side up and stay exactly where and how you put them. The concrete is treated with surface hardener, so it does not smear and is easy to clean. Comes in 5 different sizes. .
Woods and the Sea: Estonian Design and the Virtual Frontier Contemporary designers engage every aspect of Estonian culture, from the lasting aftereffects of stern Soviet orthodoxy to whirlwind globalisation, to a wired and forward-thinking social nature, to the constants of seaside life and mushroom hunting in the deep woods. This is the landscape covered in the upcoming book Woods and the Sea: Estonian Design and the Virtual Frontier, edited by journalist and design writer Michael Dumiak and due out this fall from London-based culture imprint Black Dog.
Estonian Association of Designers online shop : estoniandesignhouse.com
Radis Mari Ait Tarmo Luisk Maria Rästa Marion-Isabelle Varik TOKU
Estonian Design House Solaris - Estonia pst 9, 11314 Tallinn info@estoniandesignhouse.ee #estoniandesignhouse online shop: estoniandesignhouse.com