Hella Jongerius: An industrial and interior designer who worked with color, form, and material.

Contents:

• Experiments with color
• Experiments with material
• Experiments with form
• Working with space
• From modernism to postmodernism
• Solo exhibitions

Hella Jongerius, a renowned Dutch designer, has exhibited her work in such renowned institutions as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Pompidou Centre in Paris. Her primary focus is industrial design. She has collaborated extensively with various furniture companies, creating unique interiors. Some of her designs are available for purchase at IKEA stores, highlighting her influence on the modern furniture market.

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• Experiments with color;
• Working with material;
• Love of eclecticism;
• A project for the UN headquarters;
• Three important solo exhibitions.

Hella Jongerius, a renowned Dutch designer, was born in 1963 in the village of De Meurn to a family of farmers. As a child, she had little opportunity to become deeply acquainted with art and did not visit significant museums. Creative inspiration came to her through traditional women's crafts such as knitting and macramé, which influenced her later career. Hella Jongerius has become one of the most prominent representatives of contemporary design, combining elements of art and functionality in her work.

We girls gathered together, knitting, macramé, and decorating our rooms. The atmosphere was filled with creativity and inspiration.

Hella Jongerius is a renowned designer, renowned for her innovative work in the field of industrial design. She combines elements of functionality and aesthetics, creating unique interior items and furniture. Jongerius actively explores materials and technologies, which allows her to develop products that meet modern sustainability requirements. Her work is exhibited in prestigious museums and galleries around the world, highlighting the significance of her contribution to design. Hella Jongerius continues to inspire a new generation of designers, bringing relevant concepts and ideas to her practice.

Hella has always been interested in creativity and working with her hands, so she decided to enroll in a carpentry course. After successfully completing the course at the age of 25, she decided to continue her studies at the Design Academy. However, her application was rejected because the main content of her portfolio consisted of drawings.

Hella was accepted to the Academy only a year later, which did not prevent her from receiving a high-quality education in the field of industrial design. During her studies, she studied various aspects, including working with ceramics, making casting molds, and completed a course in weaving. These skills became the foundation for her successful career in design.

After completing her studies at the Academy, Jongerius began collaborating with Droog Design. In 1993, she opened her own studio, Jongeriuslab, in Rotterdam. In her studio, she conducted research in the field of color and materials, and also worked on projects for large companies. Jongeriuslab became an important platform for innovative ideas and design experiments, which contributed to the development of contemporary design and increased interest in unique materials and color solutions.

After 13 years of work under her leadership, the team numbered ten people. By this time, Hella realized that she was tired, as the responsibilities of management deprived her of inspiration. She decided to close the studio and move to Berlin to start anew. "I want to have a small studio again and be a beginner again," she noted.

Experiments with color

Hella Jongerius has been researching color and its interaction with light for many years. In her work, she emphasizes that color perception is a deeply subjective process. Each person perceives color differently, and it varies depending on shape, surface texture, and lighting conditions. This makes the study of color particularly fascinating and multifaceted, opening new horizons in design and art.

My goal is to highlight color as a dynamic and changing entity. Color is not just a visual element; it influences perceptions and emotions, creating unique moods and images. By exploring color, we can deeper understand its meaning and impact on our lives.

Hella Jongerius is a renowned designer whose work spans various fields, including furniture and industrial design. Born in the Netherlands and educated at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague, Jongerius is renowned for her innovative approaches to materials and forms, combining traditional methods with modern technologies.

Her style is distinguished by a bold use of color and texture, making each piece unique. Hella Jongerius's work has been featured in numerous international exhibitions and is in the permanent collections of renowned museums such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Design Museum in London. The designer actively collaborates with international brands, creating products that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Hella Jongerius continues to influence the design world, inspiring a new generation of designers with her creative approach and commitment to excellence. In the 2000s, Hella completed a project called "Colored Vases." This experiment involved using the surface of a vase as an artistic canvas on which the artist could express their ideas and creative visions. The project has become an interesting example of how traditional objects can be transformed into unique art objects, combining functionality and aesthetics.

In the first two series, each comprising 40 vases, Hella used spray paints that conformed to the international RAL and NCS color standards. This choice was made to demonstrate that, unlike traditional glaze techniques used previously, industrial enamels provide predictable colors that always correspond to the artist's intention.

The third series featured 300 vases for which Jongerius developed recipes for mineral and chemical glazes. She applied the glaze in layers to explore the perception of optically merging colors. The combination of various textures, color schemes, and firing temperatures contributed to the creation of new, multi-layered, and saturated shades.

"300 Colored Vases" was first shown at Hella's retrospective exhibition at the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen in Rotterdam. Some of these vases are currently in the Moss Gallery in New York, as well as in the collections of the French National Foundation for Contemporary Art (FNAC), and private collectors. This project has become a significant contribution to contemporary art, drawing attention to innovative design and the expressiveness of forms.

Hella Jongerius, becoming the art director of the Swiss furniture brand Vitra, focused on creating the company's library of colors and materials. Her work resulted in the development of a system that allows for the effective combination of various fabrics and the selection of harmonious color combinations. This innovation significantly simplified the designers' work process and provided them with more opportunities for creative expression. Jongerius's influence on Vitra was an important step in the development of modern furniture design, providing a more flexible approach to the choice of materials and colors.

In 2014, Jongerius introduced an updated color palette for the classic Hopsak fabrics, with which Vitra has successfully collaborated for over 40 years. The color concept had previously been developed by Alexander Girard, the eminent American designer of the mid-20th century. Hella Jongerius, striving to preserve and update traditions, carefully studied Girard's archives: "I like to infuse classics with new energy. I consider it my honor to care for our heritage." This new palette not only refreshes familiar forms but also highlights the uniqueness and durability of Hopsak fabrics, in line with contemporary interior design trends.

Hella presented the culmination of her ten-year collaboration with Vitra in the kinetic installation Color Machine at the company's stand during Milan Design Week 2016. Art objects illustrated the brand's extensive library of colors and materials. The movement of the objects allowed us to see how volume, shape, and texture influence the perception of color. The installation became a striking example of the synergy between design and art, emphasizing the uniqueness and innovation of Vitra products.

Color always evokes a feeling of uncertainty for me. Despite all my research, I still cannot fully master its multifaceted nature. Color is an amazing phenomenon that never ceases to amaze and inspire. It has the same depth and complexity as life itself. This mystery gives color a special value, making us constantly strive to understand and interpret it.

Hella Jongerius is an outstanding designer known for her innovative approaches to contemporary design. She has gained popularity thanks to her unique style and ability to combine functionality with aesthetics. Jongerius's work covers a wide range of objects, including furniture, lighting, and textiles. Her creative approach is based on the research of materials and technology, which allows her to create unique and long-lasting products. Hella actively collaborates with major brands, which helps introduce new ideas into mass production. Through her contribution to the industry, she inspires a new generation of designers and continues to be a significant figure in the world of contemporary design.

Experiments with Materials

Hella's mother worked as a patternmaker, and their home was always full of fabrics. In her youth, Hella enjoyed sewing and knitting, but did not intend to devote her life to these hobbies—she was interested in industrial design. However, during her studies, she was introduced to weaving and the process of yarn creation, which radically changed her views and attitude toward textile art. Now Hella realized that the combination of design and weaving opens new horizons for creative expression.

One of her first experiments with textile materials was the Repeat upholstery fabric, created for Maharam. Unlike traditional fabrics, where the pattern repeats every 35–70 centimeters, in the Repeat model, Hell pioneered a three-meter-long pattern. She emphasized that her goal was not limited to simply creating fabric, but to exploring the possibilities of design and texture.

The upholstery featured patterns composed of various, sometimes contrasting motifs, creating the impression of a composite pattern. Despite this, all elements formed a single canvas. The unified effect of the sofa units, cushions, and bolsters was achieved through the absence of seams and the repetition of textures. This approach allows you to create a harmonious and stylish interior design, where each element organically complements the overall design.

Repeat fabric is represented in the permanent collections of such renowned museums as the Museum of Modern Art and the Smithsonian Design Museum Cooper Hewitt in New York, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam. These institutions form the cultural context in which Repeat fabric becomes an important element of contemporary design and textile art. Visiting these museums allows for a deeper understanding of the significance and influence of fabrics on artistic expression and their role in contemporary society.

In 2013, Hella Jongerius, upon becoming design director of the Dutch brand Danskina, proposed adding contemporary, premium rugs to its collection, as they were lacking in the market. This resulted in the creation of the Bold rug, in which Hella used an innovative approach, combining different types of yarn, both machine-spun and hand-spun. This unique method became her calling card and was applied to her other projects, emphasizing the individuality and high quality of the products.

In 2019, designer Hella Jongerius designed the Vlinder sofa for Vitra. This sofa, with a classic shape, has a unique upholstery reminiscent of a down blanket. The surface of the product is made of threads of varying thickness, which creates interesting textures. The use of jacquard weaving allows for the formation of textures, each of which harmoniously corresponds to a certain color in the pattern. The Vlinder sofa has become not only a stylish interior element, but also an example of modern design that combines comfort and aesthetics.

With Vlinder, I demonstrate the potential of textiles, going beyond traditional production. This approach opens up new horizons in design and functionality, creating unique pieces that combine innovation and high quality. Textiles become more than just a material, but a means of self-expression that can surprise and inspire.

Hella Jongerius is a renowned designer and art director working in the fields of industrial design and contemporary art. She is renowned for her innovative approaches to furniture and interior design. Jongerius strives to combine functionality and aesthetics, creating unique objects that reflect a contemporary lifestyle. Her works often explore the interplay between traditional and modern materials, allowing her to create items that are not only beautiful but also practical. Hella actively collaborates with various brands and participates in exhibitions where she presents her ideas and concepts. Her contribution to contemporary design makes her one of the most influential figures in this field.

Hella actively works with ceramics, creating unique works of art. Her most famous work is the "Animal Bowls" for the Nymphenburg porcelain manufactory. These plates contain hand-painted animal figurines. From 700 figurines found in the factory's archive, Hella selected five, each reflecting a naturalistic style. She further embellished the figurines with patterns used on the company's classic saucers and cups, thereby successfully merging modern and historical contexts. These works not only highlight the mastery of ceramic production, but also demonstrate Hella's innovative approach to traditional materials.

In her works, Hella Jongerius actively uses a combination of different materials, such as ceramics and wood, cotton and earthenware, crystal and rubber. She is passionate about experiments and believes that in design, not only the end result is important, but also the creative process itself. She believes that true art is formed in this process, making her approach unique and inspiring to many designers.

Hella's Tile coffee table is a harmonious combination of wood and ceramic, exploring the interplay of texture and color. The designer applied glaze to clay tiles in two different shades, creating new, unique color schemes. This technique is reminiscent of early painting, when artists used a limited amount of pigment to achieve a rich palette. The Tile table is not only functional, but also serves as a stylish element of the interior, emphasizing the creative approach to design.

Hella continued her experiments with various materials, including polyurethane. She has created unique pieces, such as the "Soft Vases," which boast unusual shapes and textures. Hella also designed a bath mat shaped like water drops, adding a unique touch to any interior. Equally intriguing is her rubber "ceramic" sink, which combines the aesthetic qualities of ceramic with the practicality of rubber. These innovative pieces highlight Hella's creative approach to design and materials.

Experiments with Form

Hella Jongerius combines design and craftsmanship, using a variety of forms that range from classical styles to modern minimalism. Her work reflects a unique approach to materials and techniques, making each piece not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. Jongerius actively explores the boundaries between art and design, creating objects that become an integral part of interiors, emphasizing their individuality and style.

A massive walnut table with a frog, seemingly climbing onto the corner, reflects Hella's reaction to minimalism in the interior. She believes that embellishments play an important role in contemporary design, and uses the animal figurine not as a trivet or furniture support element. In this case, the frog becomes the table's focal point, emphasizing the uniqueness and style of the interior.

The Frog Table is one of the most fascinating exhibits in the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen in Rotterdam. This unique object attracts visitors with its unusual shape and artistic execution. The Museum Boijmans van Beuningen is renowned for its extensive art collection, and the Frog Table is no exception. If you're planning a visit to Rotterdam, be sure to stop by the museum to see this captivating piece.

Created in 2013 for the Parisian gallery Kreo, this coffee table boasts an ultra-minimalist design. Made from folded sheets, it emphasizes its simplicity and functionality. The table is composed of alternating layers of plywood and translucent polymers. The designer was inspired by the rich colors of stones such as agate and malachite, which have a unique layered texture when cut. This piece of furniture fits perfectly into modern interiors, emphasizing minimalism and elegance.

In 2007, designer Hella presented a unique series of objects for Vitra called "Office Pets." These objects are distinguished by their original design: the lower part is made of leather and resembles office chairs on wheels. However, instead of traditional seats and armrests, they feature semi-abstract forms of crinoline, which can be interpreted as vases or animals. In this work, Hella successfully combines elements of a fairy tale and the office world, emphasizing the importance of imagination in contemporary design, which is not always focused solely on functionality. An innovative approach to office space makes this series of objects relevant to those who value creativity and individuality in interior design. Jongerius also explores more moderate design experiments. The asymmetrical shape of the Polder sofa is inspired by the traditional Dutch landscape, intersected by canals and dams. Hella explains that when viewed from above, this landscape resembles a checkerboard pattern, reflecting the harmony between nature and art. The Polder sofa is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, making it an ideal interior element for modern spaces.

The sofa is made in the shape of a parallelepiped, and the soft cushions, contrasting with the angular base, vary not only in size, but also in the texture and shades of the upholstery. Four color palettes from the Vitra library of colors and materials were used for their design. A special feature of this sofa are the buttons made of different materials - colored plastic, aluminum and leather, which are sewn on with large, rough stitches, creating a spontaneous effect. This design element adds originality and emphasizes the individuality of the sofa, making it not only stylish, but also a unique piece of furniture.

The Polder sofa is the first sofa created by designer Hella. It is one of the few pieces she designed that remains in her personal home. This unique sofa combines style and functionality, making it an ideal choice for contemporary interiors. Thanks to its original design and high-quality materials, the Polder sofa has become a symbol of elegance and comfort.

In 2017, at her solo exhibition at the London Design Museum, Hella presented unique Polygonal objects resembling vases of unusual shapes. These works, made of cardboard and titled "Color Catchers," demonstrated how light interacts with surfaces, creating playful shadows and reflections. The edges of the objects captured the light effects, highlighting the beauty and complexity of the materials and exploring the possibilities of light in space.

Jongerius and IKEA represent an interesting combination of design and functionality. Jongerius, a renowned designer, has made a significant contribution to the development of contemporary furniture design through his collaborations with major brands, including IKEA. His work is characterized by simplicity and practicality, which perfectly aligns with IKEA's philosophy of creating affordable and comfortable furniture for everyday use.

Jongerius's collaboration with IKEA has enabled the introduction of innovative solutions in interior design. The designer emphasizes ecology and sustainable development, which are also an important aspect of IKEA's strategy. Furniture developed in collaborative projects combines stylish appearance and high quality, meeting the needs of modern consumers. Thus, the combined efforts of Jongerius and IKEA create unique products that not only decorate a space but also make it more functional and comfortable. Hella Jongerius, a renowned designer, has created works that can be found not only in museums and showrooms of prestigious brands, but also in every home thanks to her collaboration with IKEA. One striking example of her work is the PS Jonsberg series of vases, released in 2005. These vases are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, earthenware, and porcelain stoneware. Jongerius sought to combine handcrafted and mass-produced designs, which is evident in the unique designs, which are either painted or engraved. Each vase was priced at only 35 euros, making them accessible to a wide audience. Hella Jongerius's works not only bring style to the interior, but also emphasize the importance of combining traditional handicrafts and modern technologies in design.

In 2009, Hella Jongerius created the PS series vases as part of the PS project. Wall hangings for IKEA. This project was initiated in support of a Unicef ​​program aimed at helping Indian women involved in carpet production. Hella decorated the pieces with traditional animals from Swedish fairy tales, such as the goat, fox, and rabbit, adding uniqueness and cultural significance to each rug. These wall hangings not only serve as decorative elements, but also highlight the importance of social responsibility and support for women in different parts of the world.

Working with space

In 2011 Dutch airline KLM commissioned designer Helle Jongerius to create a new design for its business class cabins. The project marked a significant step in updating the company's image and improving passenger comfort. Jongerius, known for her innovative design approaches, brought to life a concept that combines style and functionality. KLM's new business class interior was designed with an emphasis on comfort, making travel more comfortable and enjoyable for its customers. At the time, the cabin interior resembled a bland office, dominated by gray tones and plastic elements. After studying KLM's identity and feedback from travelers, Jongerius concluded that the new design should be more inviting and homely. "I wanted to create a space where one could dream, feel comfortable, and have privacy," Jongerius recalls. The new approach to the interior has become an important step in improving the passenger experience and creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and enjoyment of the journey.

While researching the Jongerius company archives, interesting facts were discovered about the Dutch designer Gerrit Rietveld, who in the 1950s proposed to KLM airlines to use a variety of colors in the cabin interior. However, his ideas were not realized at that time. Inspired by his sketches, designer Hella chose five rich dark shades for the seat upholstery. This approach not only created a sense of individuality for passengers, as each seat was distinct from the one next to it, but also visually lengthened the cabin. The variety of colors prevented the seats from blending into a monochromatic mass, creating a more comfortable and stylish atmosphere for travelers.

Hella chose a "Milky Way" pattern for her new carpet, adorned with blue dots reminiscent of stars. Designer Jongerius used recycled old flight attendant uniforms and sheep's wool, making the carpet not only stylish but also eco-friendly. This solution emphasizes the relevance of sustainable design and environmental awareness in modern interiors. The Milky Way carpet combines practicality, originality, and eco-friendliness, making it an ideal choice for any space.

Jongerius created a unique design of dividing curtains between the cabins. Using a double-sided weaving technique, the curtains acquired different patterns for business and economy class. To emphasize the desirability and mystery of business class, Hella developed a pattern reminiscent of a beaded curtain, which added a translucent effect to dense materials. This solution is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, creating a comfortable division of space between classrooms and improving the overall visual appearance of the interior.

KLM initially approached Helle Jongerius with a request to develop a textile design for its seats. However, Jongerius convinced the company's management that she could offer a comprehensive solution, including the development of the seat design. Airlines typically prefer to purchase ready-made seats that are then customized to their specifications. Hella kept the design as simple as possible, added a functional carry-on compartment, and introduced a unique feature—a colored seat back that becomes visible when reclined. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable sleep in the "cabin." Sky-blue color, which creates an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation during the flight.

After successfully working on the private space for KLM passengers, Hella Jongerius was invited to restore a large space at the UN Headquarters in New York. In collaboration with the architect Rem Koolhaas, they carried out the reconstruction of the Northern Delegates' Salon. Hella Jongerius was responsible for developing the color palette and new furniture design, significantly updating and refreshing the interior, creating a comfortable atmosphere for delegates.

The hall is almost always full, so Hella designed a custom desk with a semi-spherical plexiglass screen that effectively blocks out outside noise. The hall also features unique chairs, specially designed for this space. They are lightweight and mobile, and thanks to the casters on the front legs, they can be easily moved to any convenient location. For the furniture, Hella chose bright colors that emphasize the informal atmosphere of discussions and create a comfortable working environment.

The main decoration of the hall is the "Knots and Beads" curtain, made of yarn and 30,000 porcelain balls. This work brings a piece of the author's homeland into the interior: the yarn is tied in nautical knots, and the beads are made in one of the oldest factories in the Netherlands - Royal Tichelaar Makkum. This combination of materials and craftsmanship creates a unique atmosphere and emphasizes the harmony between tradition and contemporary design.

From Art Nouveau to Postmodernism

Hella Jongerius's work reflects the influence of 20th-century art. She draws inspiration from various artistic movements, which allows her to create unique and contemporary pieces. Jongerius's works demonstrate a deep understanding of artistic tradition and the relationship between different styles, which makes her work relevant and significant in the context of contemporary art.

Some of Hella's works are modern interpretations of the Art Nouveau style, focusing on its decorative elements and handcrafted nature. In her plates for Tokyo design boutique Cibone, she reinterprets the traditions of this style using the cloisonné technique. This combination of a modern approach and historical crafts makes her work unique and in demand in the design world.

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Hella Jongerius drew on the principles of Art Nouveau when creating her furniture. Her sofas and armchairs feature simple forms and clear lines. The designer used a simple color palette, harmoniously combining neutral tones with contrasting accents. This furniture is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional, providing a high level of comfort.

Postmodernism in Hella's works is manifested through design puns that turn familiar conceptions of objects. In this context, design loses its traditional practicality. For example, Hella created buttons with multiple holes and sewed a plate and glass to a tablecloth. One of the interesting objects from her My Soft Office project is a keyboard plate, now on display at MoMA. This object could be used for eating, if it weren't a keyboard, and for typing, if it weren't shaped like a porcelain plate. Such unusual solutions emphasize the absurdity and ambiguity in design, forcing the viewer to rethink familiar things.

Solo Exhibitions

Hella's long-standing research into color and material has resulted in her solo exhibitions. These exhibitions showcase unique achievements in the field of art, reflecting a deep understanding of the interplay of color and texture. Each exhibition is the result of meticulous analysis and a creative approach, making them significant for connoisseurs of contemporary art.

In 2017, the Design Museum in London hosted the exhibition Breathing Colour, dedicated to the perception of color. The exhibition was organized in three zones, each reflecting the characteristics of morning, afternoon, and evening light. Unique objects were created for the exhibition, allowing viewers to observe how color and light interact in various combinations. This exhibition became a landmark event in the world of design, deepening understanding of how lighting influences the perception of color and form.

In 2019, Jongerius transformed the Galerie Lafayette Anticipations in Paris into a large-scale textile factory, installing a giant loom there. This project demonstrated the process of textile creation and the importance of weaving in contemporary art. In 2021, the Woven Cosmos exhibition at Berlin's Gropius Bau Museum explored the relationship between textile traditions and contemporary artistic practices by focusing on weaving.

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