Welcome Fabian from Berne, Switzerland! Aside from interior design, 35 millimeter film photography is one of his biggest passions and the creative antipole to his analytical job. However, his analog love is not limited to only 35mm, but also includes vinyls, specialty coffee and art books/magazines. Growing up in Switzerland, he was surrounded by beautiful nature from a very young age. Therefore, he really enjoys skiing and hiking in the beautiful Swiss Alps. He loves being in the mountains so much that he even took a 14 day hike to the Mt. Everest basecamp in Nepal at 5,364 meters above sea level, which was an unforgettable experience. He also enjoys cycling and traveling, especially to Japan where he usually spends several weeks per year. You can find Fabian and his 700 square foot on Instagram at studio.okaeri (‘okaeri’ comes from Japanese and means ‘welcome back’. It is usually the response to ‘tadaima’ which means ‘I’m back home’. The order in which those two greetings are said is not that relevant though).
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as: „hygge“ meets zen. My home is inspired by minimalistic Danish design with a Japanese influence. For me the Japanese design emphasizes simplicity, functionality, high craftsmanship and organic shapes with a touch of zen philosophy, while Danish design is characterized by a combination of natural materials, comfort and a cozy atmosphere. Combined with a couple of mid-century vintage pieces, a natural color palette and the interaction between warm and cold materials, a unique atmosphere is created. My main focus lies in playing with natural, raw materials and creating contrasts between different textures, colors and forms/shapes.
When did you become interested in design and what draws you to it?
I have been interested in design from a very young age. My parents always had a great sense of aesthetic and it was definitely passed on to me. So when I moved into my first apartment, I really wanted it to reflect who I am and how I feel. Therefore, I didn’t buy everything at once, but instead gradually furnished the apartment little by little. This way I could get a feel for each item and how it would transform the space. Hence, the whole furnishing process took me over three years in total. For me, liking the pieces that I buy for a long time is an important factor that plays into the furnishing process and it’s also more sustainable.
I always found the power of spaces to shape experiences and evoke emotions fascinating. Since we‘re spending a lot of our time in our homes, a well-designed interior makes me enjoy the space and creates a stimulating and positive environment for me to be comfortable in.
Where do you find inspiration?
When it comes to finding inspiration, I often turn to nature and the outdoors. The colors, textures, and patterns in natural settings can spark creative ideas for bringing a sense of the outdoors into indoor spaces.
I spend a few weeks in Japan every year. Japan's rich cultural heritage and design philosophy deeply inspire me. The way Japanese spaces seamlessly blend functionality with beauty and create a sense of calmness resonates with me. The concept of "wabi-sabi“ (appreciating the beauty in imperfection), encourages me to incorporate unique and weathered elements into my designs (such as raw materials that develop a patina over time). The minimalist and functional aesthetic reminds me to focus on essential elements and declutter spaces. Overall, Japan's design ethos inspires me to create a harmonious, functional and simplistic interior.
Additionally, my favorite designers and artists are a source of constant inspiration, as is the lovely interior design community on Instagram.
Fabian’s Favorite Items
Togos by Michel Ducaroy
Customized Marble Table by Frama
Sutoa Oak drawer by Keiji Ashizawa for Frama
Vintage Daybed by Børge Mogensen
Hem Bed by Studio0405 for Rye Sleep
Kitchen shelf by Saetter Copenhagen
Artwork ‘Pergamena’ by Lorenzo Brinati
Peaceful…
togos look so cozy and nice