Louise Campbell was born in Copenhagen in 1970. Being the daughter of a Danish father and an English mother, she grew up and was educated in both countries. After graduating from the London College of Furniture in 1992, she returned to Denmark and continued her studies in Industrial Design at Denmarks Design School, graduating from here in 1995. She set up her own studio in 1996, from where she has worked independently since. Focus is on furniture and lighting design, but the studio is increasingly involved in product design and interior design projects as well. The client list is long and varied, including companies such as Louis Poulsen, Zanotta, HAY, Holmegaard, Stelton, Muuto, Interstop and The Danish Ministry of Culture.
Louise Campbell’s work is playful and experimental, and is increasingly gaining a reputation for gently twisting not only every day objects and situations, but also materials and manufacturing processes in new directions. The combination of Scandinavian rationalism and femininity, and perhaps her dual nationality, give the works of Louise Campbell an unusual edge. Illustrating contrasts seem to be an issue, that keeps returning in her work. The Prince Chair from 2002, produced by HAY, combines a very personal expression with extremely high tech manufacturing methods. ‘Leave your Mark’, also from 2002, encourages visitors to waiting rooms to rid themselves of their fears, sense of anonymity and aggressions through literally carving their way through the supplied furniture. The design of the Danish Minister of Cultures front office from 2005, represents a refreshing view on how a highly stressful and chaotic office can be transformed into an cosy, clearly comprehensible and nonetheless effective space.
The studio is also known for its interest in less commercial activities. Apart from curating and designing exhibitions, Louise Campbell has taken part in numerous activities aiming at improving the design environment in Denmark. Among these initiatives is ‘Walk the Plank’, a collaboration lasting seven years between 30 furniture designers and 60 cabinet makers, who have all donated their time and original design for a truly fine cause. (Learn more on www.walktheplank.dk)
There are a few ground rules the studio aims to abide by: - Always start from scratch. - Everything is possible until the opposite has been proven. - There must be a good reason for every single decision made.
Current commissions include design of chairs, sofas, tables, storage units, lamps, tableware, glassware, desktop accessories, jewelry, textiles and urban installations. |
