Nanna Egebjerg

Owner & Founder of YONOBI Studio. Photo by Rigitta Klint. 

What is the inspiration behind the YONOBI Studio design store?


YONOBI‘s new shop in Løvstræde, Copenhagen Central encapsulates the junction between beauty and function. I built YONOBI based on my passion for Japanese and Nordic aesthetics. Our store perfectly communicates this aesthetic union of Japan and Denmark. The space is the perfect combination of gallery and shop space where you will find yourself surrounded by plants and rustic stone sculptures. It fully embodies the YONOBI’s vision – sparking inspiration and serenity for anyone interested in ceramics and art.YONOBI was created through curiosity for the ceramic artist and craftsmanship. And now I want to pass on the stories behind the crafts. Therefore, in addition to a shop, it is the desire to inform and tell all the exciting stories behind the work in ceramics that makes up YONOBI.

Photo Credit Yonobi Studio

What inspires the selection of the beautiful YONOBI Studio pieces? And which craftsmen should we keep an eye on?

I have built YONOBI from my passion for the aesthetics of Japanese tradition and Nordic minimalism. I am truly inspired by Japanese Wabi Sabi philosophy and the practical use of everyday objects. My love for craft and ceramics began during my travels - going to local ceramic markets in the south of France, or antique markets in Japan. It was here that my desire for craftsmanship was awakened, and it is still essential to how I find new pieces for YONOBI. Choosing a new artist or ceramic piece for the store is very emotional for me. I always choose 100% with my heart. If I can’t feel a piece or the story that the artist is trying to tell it won’t end up in the store. For that reason, I also try to visit all artists in their studios to gain a much deeper understanding of their work of craft. I always try to avoid trends and what is popular at the moment. Instead I go for what is a good representation of craftsmanship and design. YONOBI works with many artisans to keep an eye on, such as Megumi Tsukazaki, Ryuji Iwasaki, and Robynn Storgaard.

How does the YONOBI store balance the relationship between aesthetics and sustainability?

I definitely feel that ‘buying less - but better’ is the reason why the whole craft industry is experiencing such growth. Our customers are much more aware of the history of the product; how it's made, by whom, and if it’s unique or part of a larger production. And this has all led to a higher demand for all retail companies to present sustainable collections - where the focus is on the transparency of the production and inviting customers themselves into the production.Furthermore, I also see a tendency among artists to be much more aware of their production. They reuse their materials, make special collections based on ‘leftover’ glazes, clays, and more. So, generally, I feel that small handmade productions are the future in terms of creating a more sustainable market.

Photo Credit Yonobi Studio

What other developments are you witnessing among the audience’s interest in ceramics at the moment?

Throughout the history of YONOBI, we have witnessed a shift in what our customers are looking for. When we first launched our webshop in 2016, it was the everyday items that were popular, such as mugs, plates, and bowls. So, practical items that could be used in everyday life. But recently we have seen a growing interest in the more sculptural pieces, pieces that don’t need a functional purpose - but are generally a piece of art for the home.I believe this goes in hand with the general development and popularity of the craft market. People desire to own something unique and they are willing to invest in such special items. This is a terrific development that makes it so much more fun as a store owner, because we can now take in different and more unique pieces.So, next time you are travelling or just exploring your own country - look up some local artists. There are many guides online, so go explore and be curious about craftsmanship. YONOBI also provides ceramic travel guides on our site where you can find some of our favourite must-visit places.

From our photoshoot at YONOBI Studio