The Veins & Grains pedestal and console by Anne Brandhøj highlight the inherent qualities of elm and oak wood through a poetic interplay of stacked forms. While oak has been used as the anchoring material for both pieces – highlighted through precise circular and architectural shapes that mirror its consistent grain structure and density – elm is presented as a series of hand-crafted organic leaf-like formations that demonstrate the expressive qualities of the timber. Explored through two formations – a lower seating unit and higher, eye-level console – the collection invites interaction through sight and touch, whether seated or moving around each object.
This latest body of work represents an evolution in the practice of the Copenhagen-based designer and sculptor. Building on forms present within earlier work such as the organic layering of her Inner Beauty series, the Veins & Grains pedestal and console delve deeper into the expressive qualities of wood through a considered use of form, scale, and choice in timber. By utilising both oak and elm through circular cross sections, the natural qualities of each is given a greater platform to communicate their unique identity – the organic hand-working of each elm section allowing growth rings to stretch and warp in tune with the natural rhythm in which it grew. Conversely, oak is used as a structural base note through consistent repetition and as structural components. Utilised in tandem, each wood species illuminates the beauty and character of the other; and through their expansive surfaces, encourage physical interaction and a silent dialogue between people, object and material.
The diversity of Brandhøj’s dual design practices; her sculptural work and the industry focused Bly Studio alongside designer Eva Fly, is a testament to the explorative way in which she approaches her craft. Her sculptural practice is defined by a deep connection to materiality – large sections of fresh timber are hand felled, lathed and then dried. Each piece exposes the individual characteristic of the wood where knots, cracks and growth rings become the hero. Made by hand within her Søborg workshop, her functional sculptures are shaped and formed through a slow, detailed process of creation. While these sculptural pieces are introspective in nature, her work with Bly Studio tackles design issues on a global scale. With a focus on challenging the existing furniture industry and promoting a circular economy through design, Anne and Eva attack each design problem through an iterative process of hand modelling, testing and experiments. The result is contemporary design pieces with a strong focus on functional ergonomics and innovative production practices.
The Mindcraft Project will present its annual curated exhibition from October 2–5, 2025. This year, the exhibition will be staged at The Lab, a spacious post-industrial location in Copenhagen. The exhibition is curated by Pil Bredahl and presents new works by ten carefully selected contemporary designers and makers from Denmark.