Introducing: -Love, Ana.
–Love, Ana. is a small product design studio based in Zagreb, Croatia, dedicated to the craft of alluring domestic objects. Brand spontaneously evolved from the first exhibition at Clerkenwell Design Week in 2011 and developed into design studio recognized internationally as much as in their native country, with several products listed as Best Buy and Best New Products by magazines such as Elle Decoration, IDFX or Damn. “Our design draws on Scandinavian and Nordic influences, focusing primarily on the functionality of the products while leaving their form clean and simple,” describes studio’s founder, Ana Tevšić Nauković.
The brand is passionate about contributing to the local economy by having its designer products made exclusively by local craftsmen and only from materials available in Croatia. Items they offer are hand made and appear in small series. “Products are designed with great care and meticulous attention to detail and, most importantly, love,” adds Ana, who recently took time to answer some of our questions about inspiration, style and her favourite pieces in the collection.
What attracted you to the world of design?
The most wonderful aspect of my job is that I get to be creative and develop ideas that drive me. It is both inspirational and free, but at the same time extremely hard. Design is a world full of questions and research. I find it most intriguing.
What inspires you in life?
My main inspiration comes from observing the everyday life and trying to find ways to enhance these daily experiences, elevate them in some way.
When working on new products/items what is driving force of your inspiration?
Function with a twist, mostly. I like surprises, so I tend to design objects that have multiple uses. I tend to observe a lot and take mental notes of details that I find interesting. All of my works are essentially something that I would like to have in my own apartment as well.
My design draws on Scandinavian and Nordic influences, focusing primarily on the functionality of the product and leaving its form clean and simple. I prefer natural materials and colors, as they seem to be much more easily included in people’s lives.
Ana Tevšić Nauković
What is your favorite piece that you have designed?
My absolute favorite is the Traveller portable lamp. It is a cordless lightweight lamp that you can take anywhere. Ideal for creating ambiance both indoors and outdoors and adding exceptional charm to your romantic dinners or relaxing evening drinks on the balcony or in the garden and movie nights in your living room. When you are ready to settle down for the day, place it next to your bed and use its copper lampshade as tabletop for small items. The smooth and natural lines of wood and copper arrest the gaze to offer aesthetic pleasure. It is also a winner of the 2015 AZ People’s Choice Awards for Design Excellence.
Do you already plan your new collection?
I always plan ahead, so that is always a yes! Whenever I finish a project, my mind wanders off to a new one. I have a new collection with several pieces coming up.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Paris is my dream city. It has the right amount of work and living, or so I perceive it. Parks and hidden pathways in the city center make it a wonderful drawing getaway. Paris gives off a certain laid back atmosphere that suits me best. It is a huge city, yet individual districts and architecture make you feel at home.
What’s your most treasured possession?
An old record player that makes my day when I put Etta James on. It is just the best thing in the world.
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