I’ve recently returned from a few days in the capital taking in the sights and sounds of London Design Festival. Now in its twentieth year, it’s certainly an experience I’d whole-heartedly recommend, especially if you’re a Nordic design enthusiast.
One of my personal highlights was the ‘Inside Norway Design Trail,’ a series of events organised by the Federation of Norwegian Industries. Held in collaboration with leading brands and businesses, the insightful and exciting exhibitions, installations, and talks celebrated both the incredible products being produced in Norway, as well as the shared values that shape them.
A belief in innovation, a strong connection to the environment, and an inherent dedication to equality were just some of the topics up for discussion.
Starting at the recently opened Chelsea Design Centre showroom of historic glass manufacturer Hadeland Glassverk, was ‘New Nordic Design: How Democracy, Nature and Sustainability are driving an exciting Norwegian design movement’.
Hosted by ICON magazine, Editor Jessica-Christin Hametner, the event took a closer look at how these intrinsic themes are capturing the imagination of consumers, architects, and designers throughout the world.
Also on hand that evening was classic Norwegian furniture brand Eikund and Jensen Beds, who are also celebrating their 75th anniversary this year.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the city at the inaugural Material Matters exhibition, journalist Grant Gibson presented, ‘Ecosystems of Design’. Chatting with guests from internationally renowned Snøhetta architects, furniture makers Fora Form, aluminium manufacturer Hydro and Lundhs Real Stone, about what makes Norwegian design so special, Norway’s ongoing relationship with the UK, and how Norway’s designers and manufacturers are working together to alleviate the climate crisis.
It’s safe to say the Inside Norway Design Trail gave all those who attended lots to think about as well as proving once again that great design is all about making where we live, and how we live, better for everyone.
To find out more about the Inside Norway project, please visit their website.
Image 8 by Nicola Capper, all other images shown courtesy of Inside Norway and Fora Form, with photography by Melissa Hegge.
Enjoyed reading this post? Then find out more about Norwegian design company Fjordfiesta, who last week won ‘Best Relaunch’ at BoBedre’s annual awards.
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