Image source: Guðný Hafsteinsdóttir
Iceland has been a go-to destination for intrepid travellers for some time now; the thrilling landscapes and unpredictable elements drawing crowds at any time of year. But this mysterious Nordic nation is popular for other reasons too. A close neighbour of Scandinavia, Iceland has a design scene as exciting as Sweden or Denmark, despite its much smaller population size. It’s here that we’ll be looking for interior inspiration today.
An Introduction to Icelandic Design
Iceland has been at the forefront of contemporary design since the emergence of the Scandinavian design movement in the 1950s. Today, Icelandic design is known for being as eclectic and diverse as it’s very own landscape. It ranges from the clean-lined functionalism most commonly associated with Scandi design to the eccentric conceptualism of artists like Bjork.
One of the driving forces behind Icelandic design is, of course, the landscape. But something else has inspired the innovation we see today. Iceland has a historical lack of materials, and limited manufacturing possibilities. This has forced designers to think creativity and sustainably, exploring new materials and reworking old ones. As a result you’ll find fish-leather sportswear, lava rock home decoration and lambswool used in the most intriguing ways.
Ones to Watch
With so many artists, designers and studios creating interesting work in Iceland, it has been almost impossible to choose just a few to showcase here. But I’ve narrowed it down to three of my favourites to give you a flavour of the exciting work coming out of this tiny country.
HAF Studio
HAF is a multidisciplinary design studio and concept store based in Iceland’s capital city Reykjavik. Founded in 2011, the studio works on a truly diverse range of projects, from interior and product design to packaging and graphic design.
Lighthouse
Lighthouse designs and manufactures architectural lighting solutions for indoors and out. Their products are defined by simplicity and quality, and are designed to be incredibly durable. All lights are available in a range of colours and textures, to suit varied tastes.
Guðný Hafsteinsdóttir
Guðný is a ceramicist and teacher, creating work with a historical and ethical emphasis. Working predominantly in clay, Guðný also experiments with glass, giving discarded glass bottles a new lease of life. Guðný’s work is bright, colourful and instantly recognisable.
