Earlier this year I was thrilled to learn that leading Danish design company, Normann Copenhagen had joined forces with one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, Tivoli Gardens, to create a fantastic new brand.
To further my excitement I was then invited by Normann Copenhagen to visit their studio while in the capital this summer to find out more about this very special collection for myself.
A unique atmosphere
As a regular day tripper to Tivoli there’s definitely a unique atmosphere to this fun filled place that you cannot help to be captivated by, no matter what your age.
Inspired by the beautiful gardens, much loved amusements and long-standing cultural traditions every product within the 300 piece range creatively references the park’s colours, patterns, architecture and character.
You just need to know where to look.
The creative process
On the day of my visit, the gallery basement of Normann Copenhagen’s HQ was a total contrast to the showroom above. A riot of florals, spots and candy stripes, and everything from lighting, textiles, tableware through to home accessories and gifts were styled into captivating home settings.
I learned how the creative process had begun with the design studio spending many hours inside Tivoli, searching for inspiration as well as looking into its 175 year archive.
After several trips, sketches and conceptual drawings soon turned into 3D models and prototypes. These were then assessed, corrected and tested until the finished collection was ready for production.
Alongside this, a bespoke colour chart, a dedicated font style, packaging and names were also created.
Modern and minimal
If you’ve ever visited Tivoli you’ll instantly recognise many of the shapes, patterns and forms found in these pieces, as well as a modern and minimal Danish design twist of course.
You’ll recognise the peacocks that strut around the grounds recreated as painted oak figurines; the squares of the Harlequin costumes inspiring the shape of coat hooks; and the lakes found across the gardens recreated as mirrored trays, reflecting the objects placed upon them just like the surface of the water.
My personal favourites
While the whole collection completely captivated me, here’s more about some of the pieces that really stood out to me:
Emperor Lamp
The shape of the Emperor lamps comes from the two towers of the pantomime theatre. Made from brass plated steel, the shiny golden finish contrasts perfectly with the matt white inside, allowing the light they emit to be soft as well as functional.
Fairy Lights Cushion
Fairy lights are everywhere in Tivoli and certainly add to the enchanting atmosphere especially after dark. The refined lines and circles of this pattern can be spotted throughout the collection and I will defiantly be investing in this piece for my home as soon as I can.
Fence Bowl
Railings of the many flowerbeds inside the gardens inspired the steel loops that make the delicate edges of the Fence bowls. They come in two sizes and will be perfect for fruit or bread, or simply as decoration in the any room.
Banquet Tableware
If you’re looking to bring the classic elegance of Tivoli’s Moorish Nimb Hotel to your dining table, then this is for you. The white and gold porcelain set has a staggering 17 individual items within it; and there’s stainless steel cutlery and hand-blown glasses to accompany it too.
That special Tivoli feeling
With this collection Normann Copenhagen have not only encapsulated the unique history and atmosphere of Tivoli Gardens in their designs, but made it possible for each and every one of us to take a little piece of that special Tivoli feeling back home with us.
To find out more about the Tivoli collection and to browse the catalogue visit the Normann Copenhagen website. Alternatively you can purchase a selection of the collection from the AMARA website.
All images courtesy of Normann Copenhagen.
Camilla Bellord says
I absolutely love Tivoli! What an amazing collection!
Nicola says
It really does capture the Tivoli spirit!
Jumi Awomosu says
Lovely that you share a personal perspective! Thanks for sharing!
Nicola says
Thanks Jumi, it’s a very special place x
Jenny Kakoudakis says
It is very rare to find good quality souvenirs from beautiful design related places. It is exciting to see this collaboration. Tivoli gardens looks beautiful, I would love to visit one day!
Nicola says
Such a fun family destination Jenny, you’d have a ball!
Lin Warwick says
Love the glass pendants – what subtle shades!
Nicola says
I’d love one for my hallway x
Donna Ford says
Great collection. I loved that the designs embody a location and way of life!
Nicola says
They’ve certainly captured the spirit of the place x
Stacey Sheppard says
I love hearing about the inspiration behind product collections. Great post.
Nicola says
Thanks Stacey, its such a fantastic collaboration x
Mary Middleton | Hello Peagreen says
I loved Tivoli when we went to Copenhagen – a really good place to bring the kids (and the adults!). But what a great new collection, it’s very fitting for its inspiration. Thanks for sharing.
Nicola says
So glad you loved the post Mary, its such an inspiring collection and place x