The Sociable Kitchen® by Kvik

7 — What's next for Danish design?

Kvik Season 1 Episode 7

In this final episode of The Sociable Kitchen® podcast's first series on Danish design, host Julie Broberg explores the evolving landscape of Danish design, from its mid-20th century roots to its modern-day ethos. Central to this evolution is the Danish design process of "tænke, tegne, teste" (think, draw, test), a cycle emphasising continuous iteration and improvement.

The Confederation of Danish Industry proposes a new design policy, moving beyond the traditional focus on objects like chairs and lamps to a broader view of design as a collaborative process. This approach involves not just designers but a diverse team of experts, addressing complex challenges with robust, sustainable solutions.

Designer Lærke Ryom, a recent graduate, exemplifies this new direction. She discusses her hands-on approach to repurposing materials, such as transforming discarded jeans into upholstery for chairs and using offcuts from production processes for new creations. This reimagining of materials is part of a larger shift towards sustainability in Danish design, acknowledging the significant environmental impact of design decisions.

The podcast also delves into how Danish design culture, characterised by flat organisational structures and a collaborative ethos, is uniquely suited to tackle modern challenges. This culture encourages a multidisciplinary approach, where everyone from CEOs to interns contributes ideas and expertise.

In conclusion, as Danish design moves forward, it embraces a holistic, user-centric approach, integrating aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility. 

Read more at kvik.com/podcast.