Igniting the furnace for the modern era: Get to know Kosta Boda

THE TRADITIONS THAT KEEP THE FURNACES ALIGHT

Historically, Kosta Boda has produced everything from windows to tableware, however it was the development of their artist glassworks in the early 20th century that really put Kosta Boda on the map.

The journey from small town glass blowers to the internationally renowned glassworks has not always been straight forward but David puts their success down to “dedicated owners, who had a clear vision and understood the importance of keeping up with the modern design practices.”

“At the same time, it is also very important to preserve the design heritage and not forget where we have come from”, he continues, “these aspects, combined with a unique assortment and strong design language are the secret to Kosta Boda’s success.”

COLLABORATION AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

There is something magical about glass, perhaps it is the way it catches the light, or perhaps the magic lies in the process of creation; the almost illogical process of turning a grainy substance into molten hot liquid that cools to form a transparent material that is both durable and light.

It is this magical transformation that has transfixed the glass blowers and designers at Kosta Boda for generations. “Glass is an incredibly difficult medium to work with” David tells us “but it is also very special”.

It takes many years for the glass blowers at Kosta Boda to hone their craft and the collaboration between designer and craftsman is something that is unique to the process at Kosta Boda, creating pieces that are not only hand crafted but also well thought through, so they function beautifully in your home.

THE KEY TO SUCCESS

Kosta Boda’s latest collections are an intriguing mix of colour and texture, combing playful designs with a contemporary aesthetic. This symbiosis between skilled craftsmanship and creative design is a recipe for success it seems as Kosta Boda was recently awarded a Red Dot award in the category of product Design “Best of the Best,”for their Crackle vase designed by Åsa Jungnelius.

Over the years Kosta Boda has worked with artists and designers from around the world; Sara Woodrow, Göran Wärff and Bertil Vallien to name a few but the list goes on. Even today the designers and artists are the core of Kosta Boda’s continued success and development.

These bright and bold collections are key to Kosta Boda’s past, and they remain key to their future. Collaboration and craftsmanship are a constant in the evolution of this design brand.

We are creating a brand that is at the forefront of design and interior products.” – David Carlson, Creative Director for Kosta Boda

A CRYSTAL-CLEAR VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Kosta Boda’s vision has always been crystal clear - functional glass design for functional homes. These timeless home décor pieces have been handcrafted and woven into Kosta Boda’s design heritage, nestled in there amongst the glass art are practical art pieces for your home.

“We are on a on a journey” David explains, “for the past couple of years we have been working on transforming the brand to make it really relevant for future consumers.”

We want to use our 300 years of glass tradition and combine that with the best contemporary design in a way in which we can really understand our younger consumers, as well as what's happening in the world.” Says David.

HAVE FUN WITH GLASS IN YOUR HOME

One of the most remarkable things about Kosta Boda’s glassware is how it can transform any space, capturing the light on a sunny day and causing it to dance around the room in a display of colour.

Kosta Boda’s latest assortment includes everything from drinking glasses to candlesticks and vases, all in an explosion of colour but for those of us who are unsure of how we can bring these items into our homes David has some advice.

“When it comes to glass have fun with it,” he says “choose something that fits your personality and just have fun.”

“There is no longer a trend for a whole collection of glasses from the same series for example, we are not telling people that you should drink with this or that, but rather choose something that suits you and your style, pick something that fits with what you already have at home.” David continues.

“When it comes to the more decorative pieces use these to inject personality into your home, mix and match and simply be daring.” He concludes.

Kosta Boda’s glassware is a testament to the playful nature and versatility of glass as a medium. Through a unique collaborative process Kosta Boda demonstrates how glass can be both functional and aesthetic. By working with designers and artists who possess a passion for Scandinavian design and traditional processes Kosta Boda is sure to keep the fires lit for many years to come.

Styling: Rebecca Sparling; Photography: Angeliqa Daldorph, Elof Martinsson; Video: Lukas Kunwaryanto