Co-founders Åsa Bollvik and Lotta Meynell called their firm Ateljé Nordöst (which translates to “Atelier North East” in Swedish) as a nod to their roots in Stockholm and presence in New York. Their design work meticulously offers a serene sense of place while also functioning as sustainably as possible for the environment, a true reflection of their Scandinavian heritage. Shop their one-of-a-kind finds for a touch of their unique perspective.
Shop Ateljé Nordöst’s Chairish Favorites >>>
Shop Ateljé Nordöst's Chairish Favorites
What made you passionate about interior design? How’d you get your start in the field?
As Scandinavians, we come from a culture where design and aesthetics are a natural part of life—the passion has always been there for us. This perspective partly stems from a climate that speaks to spending a lot of time indoors, in turn emphasizing the importance of well-designed spaces that are equally functional, comfortable, as well as visually attractive. This is something we are passionate about and always strive to achieve, which has also been very well received by our New York clients.
What do you find most compelling about Chairish?
Interior design is about storytelling and we love items that carry their own story and add that lived-in energy to a space. The Charish selection is highly curated so that design classics are mixed with more contemporary and unique statement pieces. This is a combination we always build around to create a dynamic and interesting setting, whether we are designing a downtown cocktail bar like The Mulberry or an upscale penthouse.
How does sustainability factor into your design choices and love of vintage?
Our Scandinavian heritage aligns with an environmentally conscious mindset in everything we do, especially when it comes to furniture selections and other items that can be repurposed and brought back to life in another setting or environment. We also aim to source locally for sustainable products as well as finishes and materials, while also avoiding any extensive shipping and airfreight.
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What are three of your favorite pieces on Chairish now?
- We love the combination of the iconic sleek Scandinavian silhouette dressed in lavish tone-on-tone Tibetan wool seen in this Swedish 40’s lounge chair.
- The 1960’s BMF candleholder by Fritz Nagel is as timeless as it is edgy and its stackable modular components allow for endless creative combinations.
- The organic tonality and veining of this mid-century marble pedestal dining table create a beautiful contrast to its polished geometric octagonal base and circular top.
Favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?
Recognizing and working around the emphasis or hot spots in a room is central when creating an interesting ambiance. This is achieved by exploring the genuine flow of a space, identifying areas and elements naturally in focus, and allowing that to guide the placements of key items to curate moments and an overall dynamic experience.
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Do you have any go to color palettes and color combos?
We love natural and organic materials and typically let the tonality of wood, leather, and metal guide the overall palette. As these tones tend to be warmer and the profiles softer, we prefer to juxtapose them with cooler tones and sharper silhouettes for visual balance and a more compelling composition.
What advice do you have for first-time clients about making their spaces truly personal?
Most importantly, design around your life and how the space is truly being used. Find a few key pieces that you love and allow them to stand out by adding more supporting elements in terms of color, shape, and proportions. There is a visual hierarchy in everything around us speaking to a few main characters and colors, accompanied by more neutral pieces and tones that do not compete but rather complement and enhance each other. Bringing this ratio and hierarchy into a space makes it feel balanced and well curated.
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Lead image: Zeph Colombatto
