Stilleben, a design store in the heart of Copenhagen, specializes in household objects that “reflect the time we live in.” In addition to selling work by contemporary artisans, the brand has its own collections of ceramics, glass, and prints, even hair clips. A few years ago, Stilleben Kitchens was added to the roster.
Created by Stilleben founders Ditte Reckweg and Jelena Schou Nordentoft in collaboration with architect Ditlev Rahbek, the designs aim to present the kitchen as “both a practical work place and a social living space.” They’re currently available through Reckweg’s firm, Stillark.
The two models on offer are all about solid-wood craftsmanship, functionality (including a surprise place to perch), and artful color: The exteriors and interiors are often painted in two different tones to add a touch of surprise and Danish-style joie de vivre.
Here’s an example of the top-of-the-line version, the Frame Kitchen, composed of modules adapted to each household’s needs and space. A similar, more budget model, the Section Kitchen, is also available.
Photography courtesy of Stilleben and Stilleben Architects.
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The kitchen belongs to Marie Louise and Mads and their three young kids who moved from an apartment to a 1920s townhouse in Fredericksburg, just west of Copenhagen, to gain more space—and be able to install their ideal kitchen. “The design had to be practical and sustain extensive everyday use where spilling and playing with food are part of life,” says Marie Louise who works for Unicef. “We like the fact that the look is understated and doesn’t demand your attention, while at the same time it lifts everything around it.”
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The faucet is from Quooker. In lieu of a standard fridge, Marie Louise and Mads chose two under-counter Liebherr fridge drawers located in the back, immediately behind the island.
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Take a look at an earlier Stilleben kitchen design that offers a close look at the company’s workmanship.
More colorful kitchens:
- Steal This Look: A Subtly Colorful Kitchen in Lewes, England
- Trend Alert: The Cult of the Blue Kitchen
- Kitchen of the Week: Calamine Pinks in a Converted Barn Kitchen by Plain English
N.B.: This story originally ran on April 15, 2021 and has been updated with new links and information.
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