Lærke Ryom’s Offcut Collection, where sustainable design meets natural artistry
The Offcut Collection by Lærke Ryom offers a unique aesthetic journey that stems from an exploration of wooden end-grain qualities. The collection brings to light the intricate beauty of end-grain wood, presenting it in a new visual language. The detailed, exposed growth rings showcase a story of time, nature, and the life of the tree itself.
Each ring reflects the seasons: the lighter shades of spring wood signify favorable growth under the warmth of sunlight, while the denser, darker rings of autumn wood embody slower growth due to shorter days and limited soil nourishment. The distinct widths of these rings narrate the tree’s history, from seasons of abundant growth to more challenging periods, while the almost mesmerizing repetition of rings symbolizes the tree’s age and resilience.
This collection is not only an ode to wood’s natural narrative but also aligns with sustainable design principles, as it is crafted entirely from offcuts. These offcuts, sourced from Danish flooring company Dinesen, illustrate Ryom’s commitment to eco-conscious design. She uses remnants that might otherwise go to waste, showcasing her dedication to reimagining discarded materials as the foundation of her creations. This sustainable ethos is a core value of Ryom’s practice, rooted in the principles of circular design, which prioritize repairability, disassembly, and recyclability.
Lærke Ryom’s work environment plays a crucial role in her creative approach. Operating from The Factory for Art and Design in Copenhagen’s Amager district, her studio embodies an open and collaborative spirit. This communal setup inspires an experimental attitude, where discarded or overlooked materials spark innovative ideas. Through a blend of meticulous craftsmanship and a reverence for materials, Ryom achieves a balance between the familiar and the unexpected in each piece.
Beyond furniture design, Lærke Ryom contributes to the design community through her curatorial work, supporting young and emerging designers. She actively participates in platforms such as Ukurant, providing a stage for new voices in design while also drawing creative energy and inspiration from these collaborations. This interplay among designers nurtures a dynamic environment where creativity and innovation thrive, continually pushing the boundaries of her practice.
All images by Peter Vinther, courtesy of Lærke Ryom, shared with permission
