Modiste Furniture Rotterdam

Modiste Furniture is a brainchild of Rotterdam-based interior architects Joeri Horstink & Jelle Baars who describe their collection of tables and shelving systems as “Bona fide Modernist Furniture”. Launched in 2013 as a way of capturing the spirit of modernism, the company’s first collection features honest construction methods, long lasting materials and some hand crafted details. The name Modiste itself is a clever play with words of Modernism and Mode.

“When we think of modernism, we think about clear lines, rich materials and simple yet ingenious detailing, made with an unbridled optimism towards the future” explain the designers. Modiste strives to expand the modernist tradition with new and original perspectives on design, with furniture combining honest materials and the latest in manufacturing processes with traditional techniques. Their modular shelving systems and credenzas are a simple alliance of slender frames and plywood shelves.

Horstink & Baars believe that the manufacture of quality products begins with the selection of the right materials: they take great pride in selecting only the finest available. The designers work closely with dedicated craftsmen to create beautiful and practical pieces of furniture. It is their belief that the final product is ultimately defined by its finish, be it timber, steel or stone – so they make an effort to use natural materials and a bit of elbow grease to complete each product.

P.S. In their interview with Interiorator in 2013, the duo made a few interesting comments about the state of Dutch design, saying that “it was time for a counter movement to emerge that says: Fuck you, Marcel Wanders – we’re going to do things differently.” Yep, nailed it.