Danish ceramics company Kähler is probably familiar to every design and accessories fan. With its vases in particular, such as the Omaggio and Hammershøi series, Kähler has firmly established itself in the world of interior design. But what many people may not know is that the label looks back on a long tradition of craftsmanship, and to this day every one of its beautiful pieces is designed with heart and made by hand. Reason enough for us to take a closer look at Kähler Design's artistic, high-quality production and its design philosophy.
- Craftsmanship since 1839 – how the label began
- Kähler's cultural heritage – a distinctive design philosophy
- Tradition meets modernity – the present and future of design
1. Craftsmanship since 1839 – how the label began
Kähler Design dates back to 1839, when potter Herman Joachim Kähler opened a small ceramics workshop in the Danish region of Zealand, laying the foundation for its traditional craftsmanship. Kähler's son Hermann August took over the workshop in 1875 and eventually made it famous throughout Denmark – one of the greatest success stories in the history of ceramics.
Since then, his initials "HAK" have been stamped on the base of every piece and have made the brand famous worldwide. As early as 1889, his work was on show at the World's Fair in Paris in France.
In 2008, architect Frantz Longhi acquired the rights to the company and has continued its success story ever since. Every Kähler Design piece is still lovingly made by hand, so each one has its own individual beauty.
2. Kähler's cultural heritage – a distinctive design philosophy
Kähler's long history lives on in its designs today, preserving the company's exceptional craftsmanship. As a result, Kähler Design is a firm part of Denmark's cultural heritage and can be found in almost every Danish home. The secret: Kähler connects its cultural heritage with the ambition to be the leading company in ceramics, both nationally and internationally.
Experience in classic craftsmanship is interpreted in a contemporary light, and the result is striking new ceramics with timeless appeal and individual character.
3. Tradition meets modernity – the present and future of design
Early on in its history, Kähler began working with renowned designers and artists such as Thorvald Bindesbøll, Svend Hammershøj and Kai Nielsen, who created ceramics for the company. Today, the tradition continues in collaboration with some of the most important and talented designers of our time, including ceramicist Jeanette List Amstrup, the design duo Stilleben and Louise Campbell.
The best elements of this ceramic heritage are reinterpreted in a modern design language. Alongside vase and tableware series, the range now also includes candleholders, seasonal decorations and planters. Whether entirely new designs or classics given a fresh twist, every piece radiates a typically Nordic character and the quality of fine craftsmanship.
