Designer Of The Year 2023: Muller Van Severen

2025-07-03 01:12:55

Flemish designers Fien Muller and Hannes Van Severen have spent over a decade developing a unique artistic language that blurs the lines between creative disciplines. Their work is known for its fluidity and ability to merge the decorative, graphic, and sculptural arts seamlessly. This year, they were honored as the "Designer(s) of the Year 2023" by Maison & Objet, a prestigious event in the world of interior design. Their innovative approach has challenged traditional norms, and their contribution to the field has been widely recognized. For this yearâ€™s edition of Maison & Objet, which runs from September 7 to 11, the Belgian duo will present a special exhibition titled â€œCocoon.â€ It's a unique showcase that reflects their creative philosophy and vision for the future of design.

Fien Muller and Hannes Van Severen first met at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ghent, where Fien studied photography and Hannes focused on sculpture. They began collaborating in 2011, driven by a shared passion for visual arts and a deep understanding of form and material. Today, the couple lives in Evergem, a small village near Ghent, where they continue to explore new ways of blending art and function. Their work often bridges the gap between the radical Bauhaus movement and the visionary designs of Charlotte Perriand, creating an aesthetic that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.

â€œWe wanted to recreate a landscape representing the main elements of our daily life: our house, workshop and garden. Three islands will recompose, in the middle of the fair, our little oasis in the Evergem desert. The exhibition will act as a global and immersive installation where our pieces will exist as many small autonomous architectural entities. It will be a mirror of our interior but also our mind.â€

The exhibition at Maison & Objet features a range of experimental works, showcasing the couple's exploration of materials, colors, and forms. Their "furniture sculptures" are not just functional objects but also independent architectural pieces that interact with one another in a dialogue of shape and texture. These works reflect their commitment to minimalism, utility, and collectible design, all while maintaining a strong emotional connection with the viewer. The Future Primitive collection exemplifies this approach, offering a series of essential yet expressive designs that challenge conventional notions of furniture. For Maison & Objet Paris, the duo has created a variety of shelves, deck chairs, and floor lamps that blend seamlessly into both public and private spaces.

Muller Van Severen is also presenting two new carpets exclusively in France, created for Kvadrat, a leading name in textile design. These pieces, named "March" and "July," draw inspiration from the natural shearing process of sheep and feature a unique manufacturing technique that highlights their organic textures and forms. They made a strong impression at the previous Salone Del Mobile in Milan and are expected to generate similar interest at Maison & Objet. In addition to these new works, the designers are showcasing items specifically designed for HAY, a Danish brand known for its modern and minimalist approach. Their creations are not only exhibited but also experienced, finding a place in galleries as well as in everyday living spaces. This ongoing exploration of form, function, and material defines their unique design philosophy, free from academic constraints and always pushing boundaries.

Designer Of The Year 2023: Muller Van Severen

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