Discover the Bold Sustainability of Schneid Studio
Discover the Bold Sustainability of Schneid Studio
Schneid Studio Stresses the Importance of Sustainability and Standing Out from the Crowd
Name:
Schneid Studio
Photography:
Provided By Schneid Studio
Words:
Caroline Meeusen
‘Schneid’ translates to ‘being bold’ in German, and that is right at the core of this design studio. By creating mindful products that will stand the test of time, Schneid Studio brings a unique craftsmanship to the world of product design. Using natural and raw materials such as wood and ceramics, they ensure the sustainability and organic beauty of their precious work. Their products, including vases, lighting, bowls, plates, and so on, always have unique and bold shapes and striking colors to create the ultimate mood. Feel their passion as you read the interview we did with founders Niklas and Julia Jessen. They talk about how they slowly shaped their studio, sustainability, and being courageous.
VISUAL PLEASURE Magazine: What is the story behind Schneid Studio, how did you come to found this studio?
Niklas & Julia Jessen: Both of us have always been interested in various creative fields, since our childhood. But as we didn’t grow up in design-oriented families, it was hard to find out what exactly we wanted to do with this energy. So, it was not an easy decision, but at the same time a very natural one, that after studying architecture and working as a trained carpenter, Niklas founded the studio and designed the first wooden lamp collection. He had no idea where he was going with this project, but at that time, he has never worked harder. When we met and became a couple, the studio existed a few months. Driven by our joint effort and creative synergies, the studio’s concept slowly began to take shape.
Why the choice to express yourself in the creative world through decorative objects?
It wasn't necessarily an exact choice. We didn't have a business plan, but rather a lot of time to start and to try things out in a carefree atmosphere. We have always been fascinated by the aesthetics of materials and objects, and unlike other creative worlds like the fashion industry, it is a naturally slower and more sustainable world which corresponds to our mindset.
Why the choice for raw and natural materials?
By using raw and natural materials, we strive to create authentic products that become a lasting part of the owner's life. The thoughtfully-considered choice of materials plays a crucial role in designing a timeless decorative object. In this context, it is not only the ecological and ethical aspect why we mainly use natural materials, but also an aesthetic and visual decision, as these materials also age more beautifully.
Why do you think sustainability is so important these days?
In view of the reports that are now appearing daily about the changes in our climate and environmental catastrophes, and the knowledge about the harmful consequences of mass production, sustainability needs to be made a core issue in design. We believe design entails responsibility. Conscious and good design decisions are a good base for a sustainable product. For a good future on our planet we must take responsibility, promote a more sustainable way of consumption and elevate the consumer’s perception of craftsmanship.
Durability, natural materials, minimalism…these are growing trends in design. How does Schneid differentiate itself from other designers?
We’re seeing more and more small studios that like us, take their production into their own hands and create great products with this ecological and ethical vision. Probably for the reason that we started in 2012, we often offer a larger and broader product range in comparison. We also attach great importance to a harmonious and functional color palette when developing new products. Color selection plays a central role and is really one of our favorite tasks.
‘Being bold’ is the core of your philosophy. How are you trying to be bold with your designs?
The name of the studio ‘Schneid’ refers to the German expression ‘Schneid haben’ which means ‘to be bold.’ So this is a very holistic concept of our whole philosophy that also shapes our entrepreneurial mindset. But when it comes to our designs, we always seek to create objects that stand out from the crowd. We often use distinctive color concepts, unusual shapes or special features in the user experience. Sometimes it is also a combination of the different points.
In what kind of interiors do you see your objects?
We love how versatile our products can be. Sometimes we see our customers' projects and wonder how well, for example, a lamp can work in a room that we might have personally designed differently. We can see our objects in different scenarios, it can be a very natural environment, where wood dominates and creates a warm atmosphere, which is emphasized again by our lamps. Another approach would be a dreamy interior with an aesthetic depth and a harmonious color concept, like the fascinating spaces of Charlotte Taylor. I think she has never used one of our objects, but they would be a perfect fit!
What is your favorite material and color to work with and why?
It's probably ceramics right now. Since we have built up a ceramic workshop ourselves, we know what is possible in ceramics if you have the time. It is a beautiful material of the highest quality and it can be used very variably. Nevertheless, with every new project you realize how complicated this material can be.
What can we expect from Schneid in the future?
For some time now, we have been researching a material consisting exclusively of wooden chips and protein. We are now at a point where it would actually be possible to produce molded parts for products and we would like to pursue this project as soon as possible. In addition, new lamps will appear and we look forward to expanding the capabilities of our ceramics workshop and to launching a new collection here soon.
