Discover Adorno’s curated selection of collectible design—where art meets function, tradition meets innovation, and individuality meets craftsmanship. Each piece in our collection is a testament to the creativity and dedication of independent designers who operate at the intersection of art and design. Our selection offers more than just functional objects; these are works of art that carry the stories, cultures, and visions of their creators, making them valuable additions to any collection.
What Is Collectible Design?
Collectible design goes beyond mere aesthetics or utility. It’s about the convergence of craftsmanship, rarity, and conceptual depth. According to an insightful article on What Exactly is Collectible Design?, this category of design is defined by limited edition works that are often handmade or produced in small batches, making them unique and sought after by collectors. The intrinsic value of these pieces lies not only in their rarity but also in the personal narratives and cultural contexts they embody.
The Intersection of Function and Art
One of the key aspects of collectible design is its dual identity as both functional and artistic. In the editorial Functional Art: A Better Way to Describe Collectible Design, it is argued that these pieces are not just objects for everyday use but are instead functional art that offers deeper engagement through their design. For example, the work of Mati Sipiora exemplifies this concept. His designs are contemporary and timeless, reflecting a thoughtful balance between practicality and aesthetic appeal. Each piece invites interaction, urging us to reconsider the boundaries between art and functionality.
Discover Unique Narratives Through Design
Each piece in our collection tells a unique story, often rooted in cultural heritage or personal experience. For instance, Lia Raquel Marques draws inspiration from her Angolan-Portuguese heritage, blending traditional craft with modern design elements. Her work explores the historic and contemporary landscape of Angola, creating objects that serve as cultural artefacts while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.
Craftsmanship Across Borders
Many of the designers featured in our collection transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. The duo behind TOUCH WITH EYES, for example, draws inspiration from their travels across Europe. Working out of their mobile studio, they repurpose natural and found materials to create designs that resonate with the landscapes they encounter. Their work is a testament to the way craft can be both rooted in place and yet universally appealing.
Preserving Tradition While Embracing Modernity
Adorno’s selection also celebrates the preservation of traditional techniques, even as these methods are reinterpreted for modern times. Lørdag & Søndag, a design studio based in Mexico City, exemplifies this approach. Their pieces, crafted using age-old artisanal techniques, pay homage to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage while offering fresh, contemporary interpretations. Their work underscores the importance of supporting traditional crafts and ensuring these techniques are not lost to time.
Design as a Reflection of Personal Identity
Collectible design is also deeply personal, reflecting the individual identity and philosophy of its creator. The Paris-based studio sashaxsasha, founded by Alexandra Gineva and Alexander Dobrovskiy, creates objects that are inspired by their shared memories and experiences. Their latest collection, inspired by childhood memories and Orthodox culture, captures a sense of nostalgia while pushing the boundaries of what collectible design can be.
Exploring the Boundaries of Materiality
The exploration of materials is another key aspect of collectible design. Designers like Pien Post experiment with materials like rope, transforming everyday objects into complex, thought-provoking works. Through processes such as knotting and dyeing, Post challenges the traditional perceptions of material use in design, creating pieces that are as much about the tactile experience as they are about visual appeal.
Dedication to Craftsmanship
Craftsmanship is at the heart of collectible design, and it’s a quality that shines through in the work of designers like Nitush and Aroosh. These India-born brothers specialize in hydroforming, a technique that allows them to create intricate, sculptural forms out of stainless steel. Their dedication to this single craft has resulted in a body of work that is both technically impressive and visually stunning, offering a unique blend of art and design.
Emotion and Connection Through Design
At its core, collectible design is about creating connections—between the object and the owner, between the past and the present, and between different cultures and techniques. The work of Soledre is a perfect example of this. His designs invite physical interaction through their textured surfaces, encouraging a deeper emotional connection with the piece. This tactile quality is what makes collectible design so compelling; it’s art that you can touch, feel, and live with.
The Value of Collecting
Collectible design is an investment in more than just an object. It’s an investment in creativity, culture, and the future of design itself. As Benjamin Foucaud demonstrates through his work, these pieces often appreciate in value over time, becoming cherished parts of a personal collection. Foucaud’s creations, which combine glass and woodwork, reflect his deep commitment to craftsmanship and his belief in the enduring value of design.
Curate Your Design Collection with Adorno
Adorno’s handpicked pieces of collectible design offer something truly unique for those who appreciate the fusion of art, culture, and functionality. These works are more than just objects—they are statements, stories, and investments that will grow in significance over time. Whether you are drawn to the timeless designs of Mati Sipiora, the cultural narratives of Lia Raquel Marques, or the innovative material explorations of Nitush and Aroosh, there is something here for every discerning collector. Start curating your own collection today, and discover the stories that each piece has to tell.
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