To create the Touch collection, furniture design studio Studioilse collaborated with Bosnian craftsmen from the 'Zanat' brand to use a traditional, work-intensive technique that has been nominated for protection under UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage program.
Zanat's technique is a historical one, passed down through generations of Bosnian craftsmen. With hand-crafting and intricate carving methods, the UNESCO-nominated style takes significant amounts of time for each work to be completed. The Touch collection itself consists of benches and stools that each take as many as two days to complete.
Ilse Crawford, the head of Studioilse, chose to work with Zanat on the Touch collection because, as the name suggests, she was looking to create more tactile pieces. The result is furniture with stippled surfaces hand-carved with custom tools.
Traditionally Carved Furniture
The Touch Collection was Crafted with a UNESCO-Nominated Technique
Trend Themes
1. Traditional Craftsmanship - Businesses that offer traditional craftsmanship techniques can stand out in an increasingly digital world.
2. Tactile Design - Designing furniture pieces with interesting textures and tactile elements can be a unique selling point for businesses.
3. Cultural Heritage Preservation - Preserving and incorporating traditional and historical techniques into modern designs can help preserve cultural heritage.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Design - Designing furniture pieces that incorporate traditional craftsmanship techniques can create unique and personalized pieces for customers.
2. Artisanal Craftsmanship - Businesses that offer artisanal craftsmanship techniques for furniture and other products can create exclusive and high-end items for consumers.
3. Cultural/heritage Tourism - Incorporating traditional craftsmanship techniques into travel experiences can create unique and culturally enriching tourism opportunities.