CCB Magazine

"I draw inspiration from materials"

Photo: © Studio Hausen

We present the project „Berlin Design Selection 2016“ at the „Biennale Interieur“ in Kortrijk (Belgium) from 14 to 23 October 2016. In advance we introduce a series of interviews of our designers at the CCB Magazin. Today, we present Jörg Höltje from Studio Hausen.  

IDZ: Hello Jörg, what was the inspiration for your Link shelf system?

Studio Hausen: The LINK shelving system is a design my former professor Axel Kufus would call a "Friday evening draft". Something that you sketch quickly on a scrap of paper after you brood on other things the whole week. You will always find lightness and spontaneity in these designs.

IDZ:How would you describe your style? What areas of design do you work in and why?

Studio Hausen:I design furniture, lights and accessories. I have a very sculptural approach. First and foremost, I draw inspiration from materials. A design has succeeded if the materiality is not subordinate to the design. The design should give the material space, or rather arise from the material.  

I design furniture, lights and accessories

IDZ:In this year, we present the Biennale INTERIEUR in Kortrijk in Belgium under the title "Berliner Zimmer". What do you associate with the "Berliner Zimmer"?

Studio Hausen:Actually, a typical "Berliner Zimmer" (a room that connects the front building and the side wing and has only one window) is quite unattractive in my opinion. It is a compromise coming from the late 19th century – a time when Berlin became a densely populated metropole. But maybe the architectural deficits of the Berliner Zimmer can be offset by well-made design.

IDZ:In which part of the "Berliner Zimmer" of a Berlin apartment do you see your product? Where would you place your product and why?

Studio Hausen:The LINK shelving system offers a lot of possibilities. It is aesthetic and helpful in the kitchen or bedroom. It works as a bookshelf in the workspace or as a display for decorative objects in the living room. Moreover, one can change the shelves over and over again so that it can be adapted for any living situation.

IDZ:What do you expect from the Biennale Interieur?

Studio Hausen:I hope to find customers and traders in Benelux from my appearance at the Bienniale.

Design is essential for society

IDZ:How important is design for society? 

Studio Hausen:Design is essential for society. The objects that surround us must be both functional and attractive, otherwise they won’t exist for a very long time. Our Western society is unique in trying to distinguish design from function.

IDZ:When does a design impress you?

Studio Hausen:I’m impressed when use, appearance and materiality of an object come together in a vibrant relation. One aspect may come to the fore, another steps back, however, they never eliminate each other. This balance makes a perfect design.

More Infos: www.studiohausen.com

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