![\"Icelandic](\"http:\/\/www.clairstrong.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Icelandic-art-and-design.jpg\")
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Image source: Gu\u00f0n\u00fd Hafsteinsd\u00f3ttir<\/a><\/p>\n 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\u2019s here that we\u2019ll be looking for interior inspiration today.<\/p>\n An Introduction to Icelandic Design<\/strong><\/p>\n 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\u2019s very own landscape. It ranges from the clean-lined functionalism most commonly associated with Scandi design to the eccentric conceptualism of artists like Bjork.<\/p>\n 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\u2019ll find fish-leather sportswear, lava rock home decoration and lambswool used in the most intriguing ways.<\/p>\n Ones to Watch<\/strong><\/p>\n 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\u2019ve narrowed it down to three of my favourites to give you a flavour of the exciting work coming out of this tiny country.<\/p>\n HAF Studio<\/strong><\/p>\n HAF is a multidisciplinary design studio<\/a> and concept store based in Iceland\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n