If one was to reduce the feeling of home, like a broth on low simmer, how would it be described? Perhaps as a warm, uncluttered space inhabited with beautiful things – a space with only essential, high-quality furniture, designed to stir comfort and a sense of living well. Bolia (think Scandinavian design interiors) is a brand that ascribes to exactly this ethos; and it’s just arrived on Singapore shores.
Since 2006, Design Collection has been representing iconic Danish design in Singapore. To further its mission of bringing what’s known as New Scandinavian Design to the region, it has joined forces with award winning design company Bolia. We had a chat with MORTEN KALLE, General Manager of Design Collection in Asia Pacific, to hear more about the recent opening of the Bolia flagship showroom.
First, tell us a bit about Design Collection
With offices in Denmark, Singapore and Australia, Design Collection is an ambassador of Scandinavian design. Collections in our portfolio include furniture, home décor and technology, and we distribute brands such as Bang & Olufsen, By Lassen, Menu, Ro Collection, Silkeborg Uldspinderi and Christina Lundsteen. We also own and manage the Bang & Olufsen showroom at Scotts Square. The Lars Larsen Group that owns Bolia also has partial ownership of Design Collection. Our understanding of the Asia Pacific was a big consideration when Bolia sought expansion into this region.
What is New Scandinavian Design?
It’s a tribute to Scandinavian heritage told through crafted details and natural, sustainable materials. Reflecting a close connection to nature, it combines clean lines, purpose and comfort to arrive at a sleek aesthetic. New Scandinavian Design represents a change to something better and embraces a belief in an ever-changing and fluid world. It’s based on the philosophy that we should all be more conscious of the choices we make and the footprint we leave behind.
How does Design Collection select brand partners?
We take pleasure introducing the world to archetypal Danish design. We hope to represent these brands in places far away from Scandinavia, as we believe that Danish designs have a distinct way of combining expression and functionality, which is deserving of greater focus and recognition. Our strengths lie in creating brand experiences that focus on the customer journey; in that, we hope to bring like-minded brands to market – brands that share the same values as we do in sustainability, responsibility and growth.
Why is Bolia a good fit for the Design Collection?
It’s a Danish brand that has been inspiring spaces and sustainable choices in Europe for years. The stable includes more than 60 international designers who all share a passion for New Scandinavian Design. Bolia’s extensive range exudes warmth and luxurious tactility and includes furniture, home textiles, lighting, outdoor green living and wellbeing products for every corner of your home.
The Bolia design philosophy is deeply rooted in Scandinavian design traditions, and the brand holds a liberal view of human nature and respect for nature. The portfolio is built around a love for functional design, natural materials, beauty, craftsmanship, durability and substance. These are designs that are tailored specifically for you, and made to last for years.
The synergy in our core values makes Bolia a fantastic fit for Design Collection, and we’re excited to bring this concept to Asia.
Tell us about some of your favourite Bolia products.
#1 Latch coffee table
Latch, a series of sculptural coffee tables by young Singaporean design duo Dazingfeelsgood, would make a style statement in any living space. They’re made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified solid oak in three sizes, and you can choose a tone to suit your colour palette. The design is simple yet experimental, and its beauty lies in its irregularities.
#2 Cosima sofa
A sofa is much more than just a place to relax after a long day! Bolia offers made-to-order sofas to suit you and your living environment. They’re all created by renowned designers, made in Europe and built to last for generations. Expertly finished with handcrafted detailing, the pieces are equally beautiful inside and out, and made from organic natural materials such as FSC-certified wood, traceable leather and fabrics tested for harmful substances, so you can unwind with peace of mind.
What’s more, Bolia believes that beautiful design and good quality should go hand in hand which is why it offers a ten-year guarantee on every model in the collection
Further stores are slated to open later this year in Singapore and Australia
215 Henderson Road | 6664 0180 | bolia@designcollection.dk bolia.com
This article first appeared in the January 2023 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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