Young design labels at imm cologne 2019

“Discover interior ideas” is imm cologne’s slogan, and true to its word, there was again plenty to inspire visitors at the Cologne interiors show. Alongside new colours, materials and interiors trends, there were often up-and-coming design labels that had exciting stories to tell.

Take start-up founder David Piel, for instance. Originally from the metal industry, he now produces steel furniture and home accessories with young designers. Or Dutch label Studio Henk from Amsterdam, Danish brand Million or the collective Objekte unserer Tage. These brands all share a passion for design and represent their own unique interiors style. The trend is for labels that not only have character but are also committed to maintaining control of their production. Enjoy discovering.

Million is a Copenhagen-based label that was established to create iconic design using high-quality materials and exacting production methods. Its goal is to produce distinctive furniture, lighting and design objects. Founded in 2015, Million unites the talents of co-founders Jens Kajus and Claus Jakobsen, who collaborate with a carefully selected group of designers and architects to innovate new products, all of which are conceived in Copenhagen and made in Denmark. The owners uphold the Scandinavian design tradition defined by human scale and functionalism.

www.millioncph.com

Echtstahl furniture and home accessories are a modern twist on everyday objects and suitable for private settings or commercial locations. The extremely versatile household items have a timeless design and are exclusively manufactured in Germany, combining the finest traditional craftsmanship with the highest standards in materials, processing and sustainability. Steel, a recyclable material, forms the basis for all the label’s products. Whether combined with solid wood, high-quality felt made from merino wool, or with a coloured powder coating, the recently founded company offers straightforward and unconventional furniture with a personal touch. Founder David Piel has a background in the metal industry. As a trained steel mould maker, he has many years’ experience with steel and innovative techniques for working with the material. David Piel consciously works with young talent to foster its development and to establish new approaches, production techniques and more besides.

www.echtstahl.de

Ultimately simple and functional, detail-oriented and handmade in Germany. The young design label Objekte unserer Tage stands out with a completely unique design language and demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The start-up was founded by David Spinner, Laura Abbate, Johannes Heidt and Anton Rahlwes. True to their vision, all of its objects meet the needs of our times and fulfil practical and emotional functions without sacrificing aesthetics or character. Close partnerships with selected manufacturers and workshops ensure transparent production and objects of outstanding quality – made exclusively in Germany. Like to see an example?

objekteunserertage.com

“Five years ago we were looking for a table that was both beautiful and affordable. We were unable to find this perfect table. With the help of my father-in-law, Henk, we turned our ideas into reality. The table was a success. During a walk in the Norwegian mountains, we decided to turn our hobbies into our work. Studio Henk was born,” say the brothers Okke and Xander Albers about the founding of their studio. And the up-and-coming design label is already exhibiting at probably the most important interiors show, imm cologne. Its product portfolio now includes several collections. Design lovers will find the basics for a stylish and comfortable home at Studio HENK, from designer lounge chairs and functional tables right down to relaxing sofas.

www.studio-henk.nl