kvdev

What is Estonian design?

There is only one shop in the world dedicated to cutting edge Estonian design. Nu Nordik has been in Vabaduse Valjak since it opened in 2001. It is filled with the work of Estonian designers. I spoke briefly with one of the onwers. I asked her what type of materials do Estonians use? She said Estonians have alwayse used whats available to them. During Soviet times, design was about re-appropriation. Finding whatever is near, and turning into something needed. Even today with cheap building materials available, Estonians prefer to chop down trees in the forest to build their summer homes.

This resourcefulness is best exemplified in the Äksi Chair. The design originates from the Southern Estonian carpenters during the mid 19th century. Its elegance comes from its striking geometry. The sturdy structure is designed in a modular manner. Each of the components can be manufacturered seperately and from different materials, and then assembled. This flexiblity of manufacturing has allowed this design to adapt to through the time, and leaves the design "open" to new variations.



The owner mentioned that Estonians want one of two things - Either something really nice that makes feel them unique or something of simple design that functions well.

This item has captures both.