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Slow Design: Soulful Handmade Goods from Dora Daar

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Slow Design: Soulful Handmade Goods from Dora Daar

September 11, 2023

We first took note of Barcelona-based design studio/creative agency Dora Daar when we stumbled upon their Oráculo Carpet, a circular woven rug that wraps around the base of a tree. It was designed by founders and best friends Nat Sly and Pepi de Boissieu after a trip to Senegal, where it’s common to see families gather under the shade of a tree. “[It] was their place of reunion,” they say. “Under the canopy of the trees, daily dramas and moving love stories were played out.”

This attention to the poetry in human-made objects is apparent in all the products they’ve curated for their online store. The collection is spare—just 23 items and three workshops (one on how to create altars, another on astrology, and a third on meditative drawing)—but every single thing feels considered and well-made (the two collaborate with artisans, who execute their ideas).

From their website: “We aim for and deeply believe in changing the way we produce and consume. All of our projects are locally sourced and sustainable. We are engaged with the human beings that manufacture each of our goods and therefore committed to fair trade. We believe that this is the new luxury, one that is produced honestly, truthfully, with real time and thought put into each project.”

Below, a selection of our favorites from Dora Daar.

Chair Duvets

the duo designed the nube casamance as soft duvets for chairs (&#8\2\20;nub 17
Above: The duo designed the Nube Casamance as soft duvets for chairs (“nube” means cloud in Spanish). The embroidered fabric is made by a community of women in Casamance, Senegal, where these fabrics are traditionally used to wrap newborns.
the cotton and wool nube casamance pillows are €\180 each. photograph by 18
Above: The cotton and wool Nube Casamance pillows are €180 each. Photograph by Claudia Maurino.

Bread Bags

these patchwork bread bags are called &#8\2\20;let us break bread together. 19
Above: These patchwork bread bags are called “Let us break bread together.”
the &#8\2\20;let us break bread together&#8\2\2\1; bags are made by wom 20
Above: The “Let us break bread together” bags are made by women in Portugal; €35. The rattan hooks, designed by their friend Marc Morro, are also sold on the site.

Wall Shelves

the pair found the wooden wall shelves in portugal. &#8\2\20;they were call 21
Above: The pair found the wooden wall shelves in Portugal. “They were called ‘Bica do Papagaio’, which translates into ‘Beak of a Bird’, probably because each shelf would stick out from the wall and, at night with candlelight, resemble a beak.”
dora daar wall shelf
Above: The Bica Shelf can be used to hold candles, small decorative objects, or mundane things like a roll of toilet paper; €40 to €50.

Hand-Painted Plates

Above: Hand-painted terracotta Spring Plates are made in Portugal “by Joao”; €45.

Brass Candleholders

the helios selene applique candleholder was designed in collaboration with apr& 25
Above: The Helios Selene Applique candleholder was designed in collaboration with Après Objet. Photograph by Apres Ski.
the brass helios selene applique candleholder is made by artisans in portugal;  26
Above: The brass Helios Selene Applique candleholder is made by artisans in Portugal; €160.

N.B.: This post is an update; the original ran on Oct 24, 2022.

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Frequently asked questions

Who is Dora Daar?

Dora Daar is a slow design artist and founder of Dora Daar Ceramics. She creates soulful handmade goods.

What is slow design?

Slow design is an approach to creating goods and products that emphasizes craftsmanship, sustainability, and a connection to the maker. It encourages thoughtful and intentional design processes that prioritize quality over quantity.

What kind of handmade goods does Dora Daar create?

Dora Daar creates ceramics, including various lifestyle and home decor pieces. Her collection includes mugs, plates, bowls, vases, and other unique handmade items.

Where can I find Dora Daar's products?

Dora Daar's products can be found on her official website and select retailers. You can also find her work featured in various exhibitions and events.

Are Dora Daar's products sustainable?

Yes, sustainability is a core principle of Dora Daar's work. She strives to use environmentally friendly materials and techniques, minimize waste, and create products that are durable and long-lasting.

Can I purchase Dora Daar's products online?

Yes, Dora Daar's products are available for purchase through her official website. Simply browse her online shop and proceed with the desired items. Secure payment options are provided.

Does Dora Daar offer custom or personalized items?

Yes, Dora Daar welcomes custom orders and personalized requests. You can reach out to her directly through her website or contact her via email to discuss your specific requirements.

Does Dora Daar ship internationally?

Yes, Dora Daar offers international shipping. However, please note that shipping fees and delivery times may vary depending on your location. It's recommended to check the shipping information on her website or contact her for specific details.

What if I receive a damaged or defective product?

In the rare event that you receive a damaged or defective product, Dora Daar offers a return and refund policy. Please contact her within a specified timeframe and provide necessary details to initiate the return or replacement process.

Can I visit Dora Daar's studio in person?

Yes, Dora Daar welcomes visitors to her studio. However, it is advisable to make an appointment in advance to ensure availability and to receive the best experience. Contact information can be found on her website.

Product summary  Item 6 154Item 7 155

dora daar bica shelf   1 376x282
Miscellaneous Hardware

Bica Shelf

€40.00 EUR from Dora Daar
dora daar spring plates1   1 376x282
Small Kitchen Appliances

Spring Plates

€45.00 EUR from Dora Daar

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