Design for a greener future with Clara Viladecans
Designing with longevity in mind contributes to sustainability
When design meets sustainability, we pave the way for a greener and a more resilient future. That's the philosophy we share with the interior designer Clara Viladecans.
Designing with longevity in mind not only ensures the durability of products and structures but also contributes to sustainability by reducing waste and promoting responsible consumption.
Viladecans lamps are created with the intention of playing with shapes and materials without sacrificing quality and usability. Her aim is "to create pieces with very good materials and finishes so that they can last a lifetime", something we support through the design of our products and its Refills: specially designed so you'll want to use them over and over.
When and how did your interest in design begin?
I don't know exactly when it started, the truth is that I have always been very attentive to the details, and in my family, it has always been a great aesthetic sensibility. Design has always been very present. My mother is a very good interior designer and my grandparents had a furniture store, so in a way, I have grown up sensitized to the world of design.
How do you conceive design and what does it bring to your daily life?
Looking at objects closely for me is a way to learn. To enrich my mind by seeing new shapes, materials, and solutions to always see how I can improve.
What is the philosophy behind Clara Viladecans Studio?
I like to materialize memories, concepts or people in beautiful objects with a function, always using high quality materials. Creating pieces with very good materials and finishes so that they can last a lifetime. My dream would be to see how my designs end up passing from generation to generation.
What inspires you to create your pieces?
I get my inspiration from everything around me. Places, people, movies, memories and even old objects. I'm very observant, any small detail can inspire me to start a new design.
What role does sustainability play in the project?
I don't believe in overproduction, so I work without stock. All commissions are made to order and with local artisans from Spain and Italy. It's my way of doing my bit for a more sustainable world and supporting local products.
Any recent project that has made you especially excited?
I am currently working on a new restaurant that will open in my hometown, Girona. I've been involved not only with the lighting but also with the interior design and branding! It's the first project where I get involved in so many parts, so I'm very excited and looking forward to seeing the final result :)
References in the design world?
My references in the design world are Achille Castiglioni and Miguel Mila at the top of the list. Followed by great current professionals that I admire, such as Michael Anastassiades, Sabine Marcelis and Jaime Hayon.
In what ways do you 'elevate' your day-to-day life? That is, do you have any routine or habit that makes you happy and is essential for you?
I'd really like to be more consistent with my self-care routines. But generally my facial cleansing and moisturizing routine never fails. And the icing on the cake is if I get to go to reformer pilates, that day is considered a success!
Favorite trip you have made and why?
Colombia. What can I say, it was really amazing. We traveled with a backpack on our backs for almost a month with friends and visited practically all of Colombia, from the Amazon to the Guajira desert, passing through Medellin, Cartagena, the Coffee Triangle and the island of San Andres. We saw a lot of completely different landscapes, slept in a hammock in the middle of the beach completely outdoors and met people that even now we remember with great affection. The experience was very enriching.
A quick catch up!
What do you do on a Sunday afternoon? On Sundays I usually like to get ready to start the week off right. It's my somewhat sanctuary time to clean and pick up my house/studio so it's all perfect on Monday morning.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be? If I could only eat one thing for the rest of my life I think it would be shrimp ceviche.
The drink that makes you the happiest: A glass of red wine.
First thing you do when you wake up in the morning: The first thing I do when I wake up is wash my face and have a nice glass of water.
Favorite piece from your collection: My favorite piece from my collection is my Y30 lamp.
Artist crush? Michael Anastassiades.
What trip/destination would you recommend to all your friends? Colombia, without a doubt.
Favorite IG account right now? I have a lot of Ig I like. I get a lot of inspiration from @gohar.world @beau-traps @garancevallee @gabfoods @tiberi.club @valeriavasi @enyleeparker
Favorite HAAN product? Face serum
Favorite outdoor activity? I love to walk a lot, if I can I go everywhere on foot. I prefer to walk 40 minutes and cross the city on foot. In a way it's a time for me too, and it helps me to think and relax.