This is Paper

November 1, 2014July 18, 2016 | Design & Culture by Ed

I am constantly discovering new Polish brands which create and produce unique, innovative and beautiful pieces of daily use. This time, I met the Warsaw-based label THIS IS PAPER, which first started with 100% ecologically-made bags and rucksacks, and now is all based on very various items. From knitwear to garden tools and from “raw” homeware to printed magazines, the brand keeps it’s fresh, but simple, high quality level. They create objects which are lasting, keep on being sustainable and well-designed. Launched in 2013 by Aleksander and Zuzanna, the project values timeless over trendy, plain over fancy and less over more. In response to that, THIS IS PAPER decided to curate an online collection of objects that they would be proud to own, designing and collecting items which are made from natural resources. Some of the products they source are from manufacturers and craftsmen in Poland. Others are designed and manufactured by their studio itself, by hand, at THIS IS PAPER Warsaw studio. All of them are made with respect for the Earth’s scarce resources and little concern for passing trends. More on thisispapershop.com

And here are my favourite objects from their appealing on-line store…

Ania Kuczynska

August 25, 2014July 18, 2016 | Design & Culture by Ed

In my opinion, the Polish world of fashion and photography is truly not exploited. Here, on my blog, I want to show you the most amazing, innovative brands, designers and photographer which all come from my homeland- the beautiful Poland, which got its magnificient mountain ranges, colourful nature and impressive people of culture. The first one on the go is Ania Kuczynska, the Warsaw-based designer which is mine queen of Polish minimalism. But this minimalism has nothing to do with Celine-ish minimal chic. Ania’s style is full of femininity, visuality, sharp design- and she is constantly inspired with the world of children. Details of little girl’s wardrobe like lace or tulles are used by Kuczynska, but in a way it’s all still simple and slightly disturbing… her recent collection for SS14, Illuminate, is one of them. Inspired with art, sun, travelling and possibly Frida Kahlo (these flowers that are stuck in the clutches), the collection is easy-to-go and also very sophisticated. Denim kimonos, flawless white dresses, pyjama shirts… it’s all about ethno vibes and affordable key pieces. The prop of the show? Only the long, long oriental rug and huge photo presenting a sunset. This show was a beautiful and silent event which surely would find it’s lovers somewhere else in the world.

Puro / Nifty No. 20

August 15, 2014August 15, 2014 | Design & Culture by Ed

An extremely hype place opened up in my city, Poznan. It’s the Puro Hotel, which is one of the most beautiful design hotels I ever saw. Located on Żydowska street, it’s a stone throw from the old market. Furnished with the hottest chairs, rugs and tables, this place is to be. And it also has an amazing bar / restaurant – Nifty No.20. It serves traditional Polish food, but in a totally new version. I really recommend the blinis with tomatoes and crabs… seriously yum. With it’s SoHO vibe, the Puro hotel is a perfect place to visit during one of the lazy Fridays… by the way, what do you think of Lena’s own designed #TheRobotPajama? I think it’s gorgeous!

Jill Platner

August 5, 2014August 5, 2014 | Design & Culture by Ed

When two years ago I was in New York, I had a chance to visit Jill Platner store on 113 Crosby Street in SoHO. However, I didn’t really get interested in it, but thanks god, I took one of their beautiful postcards… and guess what, I found it today during the summer cleaning! I checked their site, their store and I am so fascinated in it right now! For over 20 years, Jill Platner has created jewelry and sculpture from different metals like gold or silver. In 1998 she opened a shop on SoHo’s Crosby Street. The space has not only served as a retail outlet for her jewelry, but a gallery for her sculpture as well. At the center of Jill’s work is a fluid sense of movement, inspired by both organic and urban forms like feathers or tree branches. Jewelry designs are conceived with an innate sense of how they will look and feel on the body. Hinged pieces drape like fabric, and hammered metals beg to be picked up and felt. Every piece has a unique physical presence and tactile quality. A simple elegance underscores everything Jill does. And the monumental sculptures which hang from the ceilings remind me of over-sized fish bone sculptures or something alike… in other words, while being in New York the next time, you must check out this beautiful store and Platner’s style!

Antwerp: GRAANMARKT 13

July 19, 2014June 22, 2015 | Design & Culture by Ed

At the end of a square with 13 trees counted twice, there is a pretty large, cozy space called just like it’s address- Graanmarkt 13. Designed by Vincent Van Buysen, filled with palm trees, huge windows and various house decorations, we’ve got the most charming place in the whole Antwerpen. The store sells woman’s and men’s fashion brands like Isabel Marant, Marni or MSGM. You will also find fragrances by Maison Francis Kurkdijan… while the store itself is a fantastic place, they also have a beautiful restaurant downstairs which serves fresh and organic foodies. Graanmarkt 13 is not only a good place for shopping, but also a place where you must be while staying in Antwerp!