German designer Sebastian Herkner may be young, but his work is considered innovative and significant.
His collaborations with international design houses, his robust pipeline of upcoming projects, and the 30+ awards he’s received speak to Herkner’s influence and leadership in the design world.
With all this in mind, it’s no surprise that powerhouse Herkner was named Maison et Objet’s Designer of the Year for January 2019.
“MAISON&OBJET has always sought to honour designers whose originality and excellence impact their generation, and Herkner’s astonishing career path propelled him straight onto the trade fair’s radar, sealing the decision to turn the 2019 spotlight on the design scene’s rising star,” notes Maison organizers.
What makes Herkner’s work so extraordinary? To some, it’s his ability to blend the typical modern aesthetic with classic craftsmanship effortlessly. Others claim it’s his use of technology, his high-fashion color choices, or his sustainability-focused sourcing practices. Regardless of how you view Herkner’s work, it’s clear that he was merging styles well before it was popular.
Take the “Bell Table,” with its signature brass curvature and hand-blown glass base; it combines high-quality craftsmanship and materials with contemporary colors and unparalleled function. Just a decade ago, mixed materials weren’t accepted or appreciated, but today, they’re everywhere.
Oda Lamp, another Herkner standout resembling a tower of light, was inspired by traditional materials and a water tower photograph. The popular design is considered an authentic, sustainable showpiece that defines the way Herkner approaches design. According to Maison representatives, “His approach to design is both ethical and committed, imbuing the creative process with the same degree of importance as the actual end product itself.”
These two products highlight the ways Herkner was and is designing ahead of the curve.
From his studies under Stella McCartney, Herkner is also comfortable bridging the worlds of design and fashion, particularly through color. Whereas color is an afterthought for many designers, for Herkner, it’s his starting point. However, he readily admits that “it can take years to find that perfect color combination.”
For Maison et Objet January 2019, Herkner is happy that his status as Designer of the Year has given him a larger platform to share his work “whilst simultaneously showcasing the manufacturing processes that have always been so close to his heart.”
To hear what Sebastian Kerkner has to say, be sure to press play on the Maison&Objet captivating video below.
Stay tuned to House Tipster for more designer news from Maison et Objet in the coming weeks.
