DesignMarch 2019 Top Picks: Colour & Materials

Volcanic materials and geothermal energy from the local landscape inspire designs with an elemental and inherently Icelandic feel. Ceramicist Guðbjörg Káradóttir mixes volcanic ash with porcelain and black stoneware clay in her latest collection, which includes rounded candle holders that can be stacked into sculptural cairns.

Design studio Innriinnri produces sculptural objects, such as vases, from cast molten basalt. They’re part of an ongoing investigation into a harmonious process, whereby abundant geothermal energy is used to shape materials into products directly from the natural environment. 

Elsewhere, designers reference topography and strata in otherworldly colours. Ragna Ragnarsdottir’s furniture and vases are made from psychedelic layers of coloured resin, while textile artists Lilý Erla Adamsdóttir and Ýr Jóhannsdóttir combine their expertise in tufting and machine knitting to produce textural, topographical reliefs.

In a collaborative venture, product designer Hanna Dís Whitehead and ceramicist Raili Keiv explore the potential of the circle, using the simple shape to create inspiring possibilities for furniture and homeware. Noteworthy pieces include curtains with vibrant digital patchwork patterns, prototype chairs with upholstery stitched from deconstructed circles, and round tableware with high-contrast wood grain effects.

At Milan Design Week (April 9-14), the Dutch Invertuals show – titled The Circle – will focus on the symbolism of the sphere: unity, perfection and infinity. Look out for our full coverage of Milan Design Week, publishing on April 23.