Bookmarks (43)

The right lighting can transform a space in an instant. This season, ICON team’s curated selection of lighting picks does exactly that, spotlighting pieces that are functional and elegant, from sculptural statement lamps to subtle pendants  Photography courtesy of Audo Copenhagen 1. Hashira by Audo Copenhagen Audo Copenhagen has expanded its celebrated Hashira Collection, designed […] The post Light up your space with ICON’s...

The Tank, as it was nicknamed, made its debut in 1936, bringing its Finnish designer a new international acclaim Photography courtesy of Artek 2nd Cycle, TEN Words by Joe Lloyd The Milan Triennial VI in 1936 marks a point where European modernism seemed to be drifting into irreverence. In the authoritarian regimes of Nazi Germany […] The post Design Icon: Alvar Aalto’s Armchair 400...

Based in Brighton, American artist James Burial primarily works with timber to create functional objects that merge the worlds of art and design. In an exclusive interview, he discusses his creative journey so far. The Wiggle Hooks by James Burial bring a playful functionality to the home. Photography: James Burial Furniture Words by Roddy Clarke ‘I’ve […] The post Meet James Burial: The US artist...

Oskar Zięta’s discovery of a new process for inflating steel has led to a panoply of intriguing work. Now, hot on the heels of a London installation, he tells ICON how his repertoire continues to expand Photography by Weronika Trojanowska featuring Zieta Studio’s PLOPP stool flamed gold and RONDO red rubin Words by Grant Gibson […] The post The founder of Zieta Studio tells...

Fritz Hansen’s recently launched ReNEW programme is closing the loop on the company’s production cycles while allowing its customers the chance to invest in refurbished and recrafted classic designs Photography by Fritz Hansen Words by Roddy Clarke Building on its heritage of over 150 years, legendary Danish design house Fritz Hansen launched an internal programme […] The post Roddy Clarke looks into Fritz Hansen’s...

The rubble and waste of a forgotten wartime mound find new life as an urban park in the heart of Warsaw’s Mokotów district Photography by Michał Szlaga featuring the Warsaw Uprising Mound Park Words by Jessica-Christin Hametner In Warsaw’s leafy Mokotów district, a forgotten war site is undergoing a bold transformation. The Warsaw Uprising Mound […] The post Out of rubble: archigrest and topoScape...

Settling seamlessly into a rural location in the northern plains of Norway, Snøhetta’s hub for two Sámi cultural institutions balances modern energy efficiency with traditional natural materials to reflect the heritage of the reindeer-herding culture it serves Photography by Lars Petter Pettersen / Snøhetta Words by Sonia Zhuravlyova ‘What was very interesting to us was […] The post Snøhetta’s Sámi hub Čoarvemátta is designed...

Shining a spotlight on Hungary’s rich design heritage, Budapest Design Week brings together over 300 works that celebrate local craft and sustainable innovation Photography courtesy of Budapest Design Week Words by Sonia Zhuravlyova The history of Hungary is closely entwined with its design traditions – from folk art and craft to its prowess with porcelain […] The post Crafting heritage: 5 highlights from Budapest...

Planning sagas, sterile pits, flood zones, and tiny plots are just some of the battlegrounds featured in a new exhibition at RIBA looking at over 20 projects that have triumphed against unyielding sites and conditions Photography by Martin Charles, RIBA Collections, featuring Alexandra Road Estate, Camden, London, looking north-east along the pedestrian street between blocks […] The post Architecture Against the Odds looks at...

The design brand has been celebrating the artistry of traditional woollen crafts for the last eight years, bringing a unique contemporary aesthetic to age-old techniques. Roddy Clarke meets the studio’s founders and explores the mindful and conscious creativity that sets the brand apart Photography courtesy of Gushka Words by Roddy Clarke Nestled in the heart […] The post Ukrainian creative studio Gushka creates woollen...

Partners in both life and business, Inna Strokous and Marius Schwald launched Studio Bovti earlier this year, bringing their vision and expertise together under one creative identity. Cartapesta is a series of marble-topped tables made using a paper mache material that mimics the organic form and structure of stone. Photography: Studio Bovti Words by Roddy […] The post Meet Studio Bovti: The German design...

Log in or register for free below to read the digital issue now In ICON 216, we explore how performance shapes the world of design and architecture – from installations that break boundaries to spaces that come alive with storytelling. Expect special stories featuring the works of Polish sculptor Oskar Zięta, a visit to Somer’s […] The post ICON 216 : Autumn/Winter 2024 appeared...

A thoughtful selection of the latest lifestyle and design news, plus the creatives who are championing boundary-breaking fashion Photography by Beppe Bordel 1. Alessi Tales In a delightful twist of creativity, Alessi’s iconic corkscrews – Anna G. and Alessandro M. – have found themselves reimagined with vibrant new identities. Three renowned figures across fashion, design […] The post Editor’s Picks: The best new season...

Through immersive installations and innovative architectural projects, Water is Coming showcases how cities like Copenhagen are already developing innovative responses to rising sea levels  Photography by Anders Sune Berg featuring Water is Coming at the Danish Architecture Center Words by Dorothea Gundtoft When attending exhibitions, it’s common to experience subjects or scenarios that seem far-off […] The post A new exhibition at the Danish...

The landmark event, hosted in the UK for the first time in 50 years, will bring together 1000 global designers and industry leaders to address the urgent need for sustainable design solutions in the face of the world’s climate crisis Photography courtesy of Design Council With less than a year to go until the World […] The post Design Council names five leading ambassadors...

As elegant as ever with their suspended design, the Gyrofocus, Domofocus and Ergofocus are now available in bioethanol versions. Focus icons where you never thought of it before Bioethanol represents a true revolution in installation freedom. With no need for connection to an external flue, Focus fireplaces can now be showcased anywhere: in flats with […] The post Iconic fireplaces that can be installed...

LiGHT 24 – the only trade show in the UK dedicated to lighting specification provides an incredible opportunity for designers to discover new technologies, solutions and inspiration. Lighting is one of the first things that designers should consider when working on a project. The importance of working with the right tools and having the right […] The post LiGHT 24 appeared first on ICON...

The Swedish designed candles were born of a shared journey between two friends, Freddy and Alex. Born and raised in Germany, with roots in Ghana, Harriet Allure’s candles use scent to invoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to heritage Photography courtesy of Harriet Allure featuring the brand’s Ama candle Words by Jessica-Christin Hametner Making […] The post Harriet Allure uses scent to invoke...

With offices in Milan and New York, Lissoni & Partners has a 30-year history in developing projects in the fields of architecture and design. Now, a new book edited by Stefano Casciani offers a complete view of the studio’s decades of groundbreaking work Photography by Francesco Caredda featuring Piero Lissoni: Environments written by Stefano Casciani […] The post A new book by Stefano Casciani...

Origins, history, transformation. The expressive power of one of humanity’s oldest materials is no secret to Lithos Design. Lithos Design – Barcode Zero The Italian company’s exploration of the infinite possibilities of stone has shaped a revolutionary concept for wall coverings, blending experimentation, innovative applications, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable approaches. Among the most representative collections, […] The post The spectacle of engraved stone: between...

Back for its 22nd edition, London Design Festival once again brought the design industry together with a strong community spirit radiating from some of the highlights that caught our eye. ‘Together In Battersea’ is an installation centred on the local community and created by London-based design studio POoR Collective, located within the Battersea Power Station. […] The post Conscious creativity, community and craft: Six...

Situated a two-hour drive west of Helsinki, the former tuberculosis sanatorium takes a humanistic approach to modern architecture Photography by Fabrice Fouillet Words by Joe Lloyd In 1928, an architectural competition was announced for the construction of a 184-bed tuberculosis sanatorium in Paimio, a tiny town on Finland’s southwestern coast. Among the architects who heeded […] The post Architecture Icon: The Paimio Sanatorium and...

Since practicing as an architect for 15 years, Christophe Donot pivoted his career in 2021 to become a ceramicist. In an exclusive interview he offers ICON an insight into his creative journey so far. The Large Tilted Ice Melting Moonjar by Christophe Donot which alludes to the issues of climate change. Photography: Christophe Donot Words […] The post Christophe Donot discusses his unconventional approach...

From 6-9 October, the Portuguese Association of Wood and Furniture Industries (AIMMP) brings together leading Portuguese interior design brands at Decorex Images courtesy of AIMMP Seventeen leading brands, all proudly producing and designing 100% in Portugal, will come together to showcase their vision for upcoming trends at Olympia, London as part of this year’s Decorex, […] The post Portugal showcase the ultimate trends in...

Directly inspired by his distinguished creations, the Morris & Co. lampshade collection welcomes its user to immerse themselves in the history of William Morris’ distinctive design works. Photography courtesy of Pooky  The wonderful world of William Morris & Emery Walker With a mutual passion for design, William Morris and Emery Walker forged a friendship that […] The post Discover the Morris & Co. collection...

Finnish design goes beyond aesthetics; it leads the way in thoughtful innovation. Read on to discover how Helsinki is creating a reuse movement that puts people and the planet first Photography by Henri Vogt featuring Habitare Protos, the fair’s area for new design and fresh product ideas Words by Jessica-Christin Hametner As autumn settles over […] The post From Helsinki with joy: How Finland’s...

Launching its latest headphones earlier this month, Bang & Olufsen continue to set a precedent in wearable technology through modular construction and superior materiality. Launching earlier this month, the Beoplay H100 by Bang & Olufsen combines a superior design aesthetic with industry-leading technology and circular design principles. Photography: Bang & Olufsen Words by Roddy Clarke […] The post Bang & Olufsen continues to redefine...

Launching this year, SLOWE Living is a new design studio founded by Oliver Murphy and was set up in response to a personal challenge he wanted to address he reveals. SLOWE Living is a new furniture brand set up by Oliver Murphy – the designer behind its modular sofa bed design. Photography: SLOWE Living “It […] The post Oliver Murphy reveals the inspiration and...

Infinite perspectives, three-dimensional geometries, optical effects, organic shapes and architectural styles, outline the motifs of Lithos Design first and most popular collection   Pietre Incise is Lithos Design iconic collection. A family of wall coverings and modular panels that releases all the evocative power of marble and makes its natural materiality shine through. The secret […] The post Pietre Incise by Lithos Design: modular...

From product launches to insightful talks and engaging showroom activities, there’s something for everyone during the 22nd edition of London Design Festival The annual London Design Festival brings together thousands of architects and design enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate the rich diversity of the capital’s thriving design community. The festival underscores London’s status […] The post ICON’s guide to navigating London Design...

The Edinburgh gallery Bard is hosting an exhibition of 10 monumental photographic prints by artist and activist Matthew Hyndman in a show called Upended Photography by Matthew Hyndman Bard, the Edinburgh-based shop and gallery dedicated to Scottish craft and design, has unveiled a bold new photography exhibition entitled Upended, by artist and activist Matthew Hyndman. Founded […] The post Matthew Hyndman’s debut show Upended subverts...

As we gain a greater understanding of its importance in children’s learning and development, architects and artists around the world are developing innovative and visually stimulating landscapes to support exploratory and imaginative play Photography by Magpie Eye Kids Photography Words by Riya Patel In my 1980s suburban childhood, playing in public space was limited to […] The post From the archives: Innovative landscapes inspiring...

UK-based woodworker Alfred Newall discusses his creative journey to date in an exclusive interview with ICON. Roddy Clarke reports. British designer-maker Alfred Newall is beautifully balancing traditional techniques with contemporary craft in his collections of made-to-order furniture and accessories for the home. Photography: Alfred Newall Words by Roddy Clarke With his love of woodworking embedded […] The post Alfred Newall discusses his craft and...

Providing a new model for urban living in Calgary, Canada, Grow is an innovative project by Modern Office of Design + Architecture (MODA) challenging the traditional notions of multi-residential buildings Photography by MJay Photography and Ema Peter Located in the heart of Bankview, Calgary, Grow is more than just another housing project – it’s a […] The post This multi-residential project by MODA cultivates...

The curved roof of Kukkapuro House in Kauniainen, Finland, shelters the former studio and home of its creators, designer Yrjö Kukkapuro and his visual artist wife Irmeli. Their daughter, Isa Kukkapuro-Enbom tells ICON the story of this unique space dedicated to creativity Photography by Niclas Mäkelä Words by Anna-Kaisa Huusko ‘The house was conceived as […] The post Architecture Icon: The post-war designs of...

From neighbourhood cafés to design-led stores and community hangouts, make the most of this hip London area with our insights from local design insiders  Photography courtesy of The House by M.AH Words by Harriet Thorpe One of East London’s many villages, London Fields is named after the pleasant park around which the neighbourhood congregates. Informally […] The post Design Destination: ICON’s tips for where...

After launching The Queer Library in 2021, Aesop has continued to expand the initiative across different cities helping to spotlight and provide a space for LGBTQIA+ authors and the wider community. Aesop is championing values of inclusion through its Queer Library as well as paying attention to circular principles in the design of its stores […] The post Aesop continues to expand its Queer...

A recent graduate of Norwich University of the Arts, Joanne O’Rourke’s latest collection ‘Harmonious Nature’s Rhythms’ alludes to her love of the natural world and its deep connection to her design values Textile designer Joanne O’Rourke creates nature-inspired artworks which are then digitally transformed into printed textiles. Photography by Denisa Ilie Words by Roddy Clarke […] The post Textile designer Joanne O’Rourke discusses her...

As co-curator for the 2025 edition of Made in L.A. Biennial at the Hammer Museum, and curator of Frieze Los Angeles, Focus 2024, Essence Harden’s work is rooted in community and place Photography courtesy of Yeni Mao and Brooke Benington featuring Make Room by Yenio Mao at Frieze Los Angeles 2024 Words by Sarah Forman […] The post Meet Essence Harden: The Los Angeles-based...

The largest student architectural competition globally, has revealed its finalists This year, the competition attracted a staggering 1,174 projects from 1,270 participants representing 87 countries. Out of this impressive pool, 30 finalists from 20 countries have emerged in the Architecture category, alongside 6 finalists in Urban Design and 5 in Interior Design. The INSPIRELI AWARDS […] The post Announcing the finalists of the 9th...

Graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2021, Belgian designer Mathilde Wittock has gone from strength to strength thanks to her visionary creativity and undeniable passion. ICON explores her journey so far Soundbounce by Mathilde Wittock is a surface material made from discarded tennis balls and can be applied to both furniture and wall panel formats. […] The post Meet Mathilde Wittock: An emerging designer...

From door handles to designer lighting and now cookware, Buster + Punch’s latest collaboration with legacy French brand Staub aims to celebrate and elevate a cultural icon – the full English breakfast Photography courtesy of Buster + Punch Words by Sonia Zhuravlyova ‘I love cooking,’ says Massimo Minale, architect and founder of Buster + Punch. […] The post A new collaboration between Buster &...

Swiss practice Haller Gut Architekten has completed its latest architectural endeavour in Aeschi, a municipality in the Frutigen-Niedersimmental district in the canton of Bern in Switzerland, for a local school Photography courtesy of Haller Gut Architekten Seamlessly weaving together four decades of history within a school complex, Haller Gut Architekten has added several new classrooms […] The post Haller Gut Architekten unveils contemporary design...