Contemporary craft

Milan – Before this year’s Salone Internazionale del Mobile show, LS:N Global met designer Kim Thome to discuss his up-and-coming exhibit, Twenty-five %, created for the Wallpaper* AfghanMade exhibition.

The London-based Norwegian designer works in a number of areas, including products, furniture, spatial and installation. Thome was commissioned to design a rug for the Wallpaper* AfghanMade exhibition at this year’s show in Milan. Wallpaper* AfghanMade, set up by the US Department of Defense Task Force for Business and Stability Operations, which aims to develop local industries and design techniques, celebrates traditional crafts in conjunction with contemporary designs.

For the project, Thome worked collaboratively with London-based contemporary rug designer Christopher Farr. Farr and Thome worked alongside highly skilled Afghan craftsmen to develop the final product. Thome created the designs for the carpets, and consulted with Farr on which textiles and construction technique to use, before the designs were sent to craftsmen in Afghanistan. 

LS:N Global will be reporting from Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan, so keep an eye on our Seed and Shows sections.