(Archive) Atelier Iris Nijenhuis

One base, but no definite shape. Nothing is predetermined or permanent.

Iris Nijenhuis is an Amsterdam based fashion & product designer with a passion for experimental shapes and structures. Artisanal craftsmanship and innovative techniques go hand in hand in her work, which includes eye catching textile wearables and interior objects such as lampshades and wall panels. She has a penchant for old garments, utensils and furniture and when possible, she respectfully combines the old and the new.

She examines the potential of textiles and tries to give it constructive value, without the use of a sewing machine, stitches or glue. By experimenting with laser cutting, she developed a technique in which the fabric is cut into small puzzle pieces that form the basis of the design process. By connecting the pieces together manually, inspiring shapes and structures are created that can form various stunning shapes.

Because her technique is also suitable for wearable applications, and her intrinsic motivation is to create accessible items for the public to enjoy, she developed an innovative and joyful jewellery collection. But the modular system offers so many opportunities that she wants to spend the coming years applying her technique into interior design.