In conversation: Nuura

Danish lighting brand Nuura was founded by Sofie Refer, Nadia Lassen and Peter Østerberg in 2017. They have created an exclusive collection of designer lighting which is inspired by the riches and joy found in Nordic nature. From the Blossi to the Miira – their refined lighting collections have been gaining a lot of attention in the design world, and are quickly becoming lighting bestsellers here at Nest.

So what is it that makes them so interesting?

We caught up with two of Nuura’s founders, CEO Nadia Lassen and designer Sofie Refer to get to know this exciting lighting brand a little bit better…

Nuura was only launched in 2018, what has made the brand so successful so quickly?

Nadia - We have a strong philosophy on how to build a brand, and we are very focused on following this. From design, presentation of the products, retailers, marketing, packaging, images, and who we work with.

To build and protect the brand, we are quite selective and only work with people who can relate to Nuura and who we can make a strong relationship with.

And of course, it all starts with the right product. Without that, it’s impossible to build a successful brand. And luckily, we do have great products here at Nuura. Sofie Refer who designed our first five collections really did a great job creating modern Nordic lighting collections which are unique, innovative and in high quality.

What is the philosophy behind Nuura’s lighting designs? Where do you find inspiration?

Sofie - At Nuura, we create lighting collections with the chandelier as a starting point and signature. This is based on our intentions of honouring light and our hope that our lighting will bring joy - since the original purpose of a chandelier it to reflect riches, generosity and joy. An entire lighting collection gives more opportunities to complete and interior decoration and bring harmony.

What is your design background? What drew you toward lighting in particular?

Sofie - I am an educated product designer from The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts Schools. My first lighting design was in production in 2000; since then, I have been working as a lighting designer.

Since my childhood lighting fascinated me, especially chandeliers from the past. To me, a beautiful chandelier is like a piece of art that can be immensely captivating. To enter a room with a beautiful chandelier and the right light setting makes me feel good.

Later in life, I learned that lighting has a high impact on our well being; it affects our mood, energy level, and even our body temperature and heartbeat. Therefore I find it very meaningful and important to work with high-quality light sources and lighting, especially in the North where we have the long dark winter season and are depending on artificial lighting.

What’s your take on Scandinavian style?

Nadia - Scandinavian designs are, to me, minimalistic, modern, innovative and timeless. I guess we have a unique take on design here in Scandinavia which is very difficult to describe but so easy to see when looking at Scandinavian brands. Our designs are quite simple, without too many unnecessary details. Everything must have a function and yet be combined with aesthetics.

What do you think are the most important considerations when investing in lighting for your home?

Sofie - Each room and area has its own needs for lighting. You would need different types of lighting to achieve a perfect light. Next to excellent all-round lighting, you would need working light for reading and working areas includes bathroom and kitchen area. Besides the functional needs, lighting can be used to create atmosphere. A chandelier placed over the dining table or at the hall area creates a warm and welcoming ambience.

How does lighting affect our wellbeing?

Sofie – The newest science proves that lighting has a big impact on our wellbeing. Light affects our mood, energy level, and even our body temperature and heartbeat. In the private sector, there is a high awareness of providing ideal light to support the high energy level and general well being of the employees.

However, when it comes to private homes, there is less attention to the importance of light. I hope that in the future this will change. Lighting is essential for the quality of our life, just as much excellent light setting will have a positive effect, poor lighting will have the exact opposite effect. It is crucial to find the right lighting fixtures and place them right, but it is just as important to use the right light source. The light source must provide the needed light (high lumen) in a room, especially around working areas. The colour temperature (Kelvin) is also critical. Warm light is more relaxing and cosy compared to more cold light. In the Nordics, we prefer 2700 Kelvin.

You’ve recently collaborated with Brdr. Krüger to light their new Copenhagen showroom. How did this collaboration come about?

Nadia - When Brdr. Krüger contacted us and told us about the fantastic ideas they had for a showroom and asked us if we would become their lighting partner we were very excited and of course, said yes.

Brdr. Krüger is a well known and old family business who have made quality products for years but who are also looking forward and work with contemporary designers keeping the brand vital. We thought that this was a great match and that our lighting collections would look fantastic with their furniture.

Where else can we see Nuura designs in the flesh? Are there any projects you are particularly proud of?

Sofie - We have recently completed a project together with Patricia Urquiola Studio. We created a customised Blossi Chandelier of two rings and a diameter of 240cm, for Marktgasse Hotel in Zurich. It was a pleasure to work with the Patricia Urquiola team on this great project.

What’s next for Nuura?

Nadia - We are continually working on exciting projects and developing new collections. We are soon launching a new collection designed by an internationally well-known designer. A collaboration we have been working on for a long time and which we are so excited to share with the world.

Inspired by what you see? Discover the Nuura collection below.