A Look Back at Design Salon at Tannum Møbler

On December 5th, we gathered design enthusiasts, professionals, and curious minds for a very special edition of Design Salon, held in collaboration with our exclusive retailer in Oslo, Tannum Møbler. The evening was a celebration of Norwegian design, and a challenge to rethink and elevate the field.

The theme of the evening was “What is Norwegian Design?” This sparked an inspiring and engaging conversation about how Norwegian design can grow through innovation, experimentation, and the courage to take unconventional paths. The goal was to explore the current identity of Norwegian design, challenge established norms, and together shape a new and inspiring future.

The panel consisted of strong voices with diverse perspectives:

Fredrik Bull, Interior Architect

Anna Maria Øfstedal, Designer

Kjetil Fallan, Professor and Art Historian

The evening was expertly moderated by Guro Røberg, who ensured a rich dialogue and that all voices were heard.

The discussion touched on important topics such as identity, innovation, and sustainability, providing both insight and inspiration to all attendees.

Daring to Challenge the Familiar

Norwegian design has long been characterized by functionality and a practical approach. This is both a strength and a challenge. Fredrik Bull, one of Norway’s leading interior architects, highlighted the enormous potential in thinking bigger and broader. Bull emphasized how collaboration and our rich design heritage can serve as a springboard to create solutions that are both local and global.

New Materials, New Possibilities

Product designer Anna Marie Øvstedal Eng challenged the audience’s perceptions of Norwegian design through her work with sculptural forms and unconventional materials. Eng believes that to develop Norwegian design, we must dare to move beyond the traditional:

“To grow, we must experiment and dare to use unexpected materials. It is only when we step outside the traditional that we can truly create something new,” said Eng, who was recently named “Talent of the Year” by Bo Bedre.

She pointed out that by using unconventional materials, we can create entirely new expressions and solutions that not only broaden the design horizon but also open the door to more sustainable and innovative approaches. Only by allowing experimentation can we truly create innovative and forward-looking design.

Design as Culture and Identity

Kjetil Fallan, professor of design history, took us on a journey through the evolution of Norwegian design and how design serves as an expression of our cultural identity. He emphasized that design is not only about aesthetics and function but also reflects the societal conditions and values that shape a culture. Norwegian design has evolved alongside social changes, from the functionalism of modernism to today’s sustainable and experimental approaches.

Fallan called for a conscious reflection on how Norwegian design should relate to global trends while preserving our cultural identity. What does it mean to be Norwegian in a global design world, and how can we contribute to a sustainable future? These are questions that are becoming increasingly important to ensure the relevance of Norwegian design on the international stage.

A recurring message from the evening was that, as a design nation, we must:

- Dare to step out of the comfort zone.

- Explore new materials and solutions.

- Promote both emerging talents and established designers.

- View Norwegian design in a global context without losing our unique identity.

Design Salon – a journey forward

We look forward to creating more platforms where Norwegian design can be discussed, explored, and developed. The future of Norwegian design is bright, but it requires courage, innovation, and collaboration across generations and disciplines.

A big thank you to Tannum Møbler for being wonderful hosts, to the skilled panel of the evening, and to everyone who participated. Together, we are shaping a future for Norwegian design that is sustainable, innovative, and inspiring.

Don’t miss our next Design Salon in February – more info coming soon!