It’s not every day you get the opportunity to meet one of your heroes, but shortly before the half-term holidays I headed to London to do just that.
With a history dating back to 1872, Danish design brand Fritz Hansen is one of the few companies that can count their legacy in triple digits. But, as well as a back catalogue packed full of pieces by the likes of Arne Jacobsen, Hans J. Wegner and Poul Kjærholm; they continue to collaborate with a whole host of contemporary creatives too.
Normally based at her studio in central Copenhagen, acclaimed designer Cecilie Manz has over the last quarter century not only worked with the likes of Bang & Olufsen, Fredericia, Iittala and Muuto, but has also been the recipient of several prestigious industry awards.
So, with the opportunity to chat with her about her life, her creative loves as well as her latest Fritz Hansen design, here’s what Cecilie had to tell me at this very special event:
Shall we start with a little about you and how your early experiences have shaped your passion for design?
It’s always easy to look back and realise how things make sense later on, but I was always very interested in objects, all kind of objects. I didn’t connect it to the term ‘design’ as such back then, I just observed the aesthetics. For example, the everyday beauty found in your favourite cup, the functionality of a bolt knot, or the detailed curvature of a porcelain bowl.
Who are your creative heroes, and what influence would you say have they had on your design practice?
My childhood environment has influenced my outlook immensely. I more or less grew up in my parents’ workshop. They were both ceramic artists, and they should probably take the credit for my interest in craftsmanship and materiality. Perhaps that’s why my own workshop is so very important to me, as this is the place where things grow.
Since establishing your studio in 1998 you have worked with several leading Nordic design brands but what for you makes Fritz Hansen special?
If you say furniture to a Dane, they will probably answer ‘Fritz Hansen’. I, like many others grew up surrounded by their products, and it is of course a privilege to be allowed to work with them as a designer.
I feel a longstanding connection to the company, and they will always have a special place in my heart. They gave me a chance early in my career when others didn’t, and over the years, we’ve gone on to work on several projects together, either commissioned briefs or my own designs.
How would you describe your design style, what values and principles guide the pieces you have made in collaboration with Fritz Hansen?
I think both Fritz Hansen and I value high quality, I’m quite obsessed with that. Functionality too, things need to make sense and work well. Also, for me design is not a style, it’s tools with beauty.
If we take my latest design the Monolit as an example, these bold, expressive chairs reflect many of the iconic pieces already found in the Fritz Hansen collection. From their moulded plywood shells, through to their leather piping details, they gently cocoon the user offering comfort and a sense of seclusion, making them perfect for dining or relaxing.
Looking ahead, what projects might we find on your desk right now and what topics are guiding your work?
I’m working with lighting, furniture and experimental work at the moment. I like the mixture of different topics; it makes it more interesting for me. These times now demand us to think even more carefully about what we put out into the world, and if we are making something new it should be made the right way and for the right reasons.
Want to know more?
Thanks again to Cecilie for taking the time to chat with me, and to Fritz Hansen for the invitation.
To find out more about Fritz Hansen, and the Monolit dining and lounge chairs, visit their website.
All images courtesy of Fritz Hansen.
Enjoyed this post? Then read my chat with Danish designer, Rikke Frost and find out more her Sideways Series for Carl Hansen & Søn.
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