Cohesive Design – 01 Series by FRAMA
There’s something so appealing about the original plywood furniture designed in the 30s and 40s. Not just the functional aspect, but also the restraint and subtle way that they blend in with any interior space. These chairs by Copenhagen-based multi-disciplinary design brand FRAMA are titled u
Order & Disorder – Glass Sculpture by Lene Bodker
It feels as though there’s something symbolic about nature’s representation in the world of art. It’s been a common theme since the start of time and still intrigues us today. When we are born, millions of organisms and bacteria inhabit our bodies and continue to do so until we pass. Nature ca
Weightlessness – Paper Work by Studio Frederik Gustav
Often in design, the most simple-looking object can be the most complex. There is a real art to this concept of “filtering down”, where only the essential is left to shine through. An artwork or object with exquisite composition and proportion requires enormous amounts of work and small
Examining Space – Ceramic Sculpture by Jane McKenzie
Exploring space in design is a whole sub-category in itself, especially in architecture. Of course, you have open spaces, connecting spaces, and even negative spaces, all these small intricacies make or break the cohesiveness of a work. I was drawn to the work of Australian artist Jane McKenzie for
New at OEN – Teapots by Iwachu
We had a lot of fun photographing a selection of new styles from Japanese teapot manufacturer IWACHU. Founded in 1902, IWACHU continues the tradition of Nanbu Tekki, a form of metalwork from back in the Edo period. Although these teapots are more traditional in style, the classic forms and simple pa
15% off at OEN – For a Limited Time Only
We don’t do it often but we wanted to show our appreciation to all of our supporters by offering a 15% discount on our Holiday Gift Guide collection. This is the perfect time to pick up some handmade gifts for family and friends. Use code BLKFRI at the checkout to receive the discount on any [
Design Classics – Bambi Lounge Chair by Fjordfiesta
It’s always fun analysing new furniture designs to see the possible connections to pieces produced in the past. The reality is that there are only so many forms that can be pursued when it comes to seating, to make something truly functional and beautiful takes great skill. A cohesion of simpl
New at OEN – Pottery by Katsufumi Baba
Today we highlight the work of Japanese potter Katsufumi Baba, a ceramic artist who is focused on crafting functional beauty from clay. Using both a stoneware and porcelain clay body, Baba’s unique ability to switch between the different clays with fluidity makes for a beautiful collection wit
Honest Materials – Sculpture by Nadia Yaron
Many people overlook the aesthetic quality that craftsmanship brings to a piece of work. Often those small markings where the chisel strikes the surface, or a unique indent or natural blemish, create this aura of warmth that’s impossible to be replicated in the manufacturing industry. New York
New at OEN Shop – STAND Series by Mori Kougei
One of the most exciting things about supporting the makers in the shop is seeing their development and what direction they go with their design ideas. Mori Kougei, who are specialists in the production of exquisite trays crafted from natural wood, has now ventured into the furniture field with thei
Delving Deeper – Ceramics by HoJung Kim
In my opinion, one of the under appreciated areas of ceramic design is the exploration of surfaces and textures. Shapes are impressive, but there’s something much deeper when it comes to the clay surface and the qualities it can transmit. For this reason when I saw the work of UK-based South K
New at OEN Shop – The Elemense Series
A new release in the shop today is the collaborative effort between Japanese designer Takuhiro Shinomoto and Nippon Kodo, one of the oldest producers of incense in Japan. The Elemense series consists of five fragrances referencing the five elements. Nippon Kodo has taken the highest-quality natural