Constantin Laan

When furniture meets art

• Kostia works with other artisans to create his furniture
• He always works with ecological awareness
• He believes that tradition is 'a springboard to creating something new'

His studio can be described as a cabinet of curiosities, a place dedicated to creating furniture that's more sculptural than functional. Here, Constantin Laan – or Kostia, as he is known – can be found either sketching, building models or executing the final touches on a unique piece of furniture. He uses various materials including bronze, wood and lacquer, and each piece tells a story inspired by a mix of symbols, references and emotions. The result is an object that straddles the border between furniture and art. Kostia's name, studio and background are all equally intriguing. His roots are an unlikely mix: Russian, Corsican, Belgian with some Flemish and Dutch ancestry. Perhaps it is this rich heritage that accounts for his philosophy: nothing is impossible.

Interview

©Louis Teran

©All rights reserved

How do you find the necessary techniques for different objects?

We invite expert artisans to show us how to work with specific materials. We integrate their techniques and know-how to create what we had envisioned. The concept of each piece is conceived and designed by me and then my studio executes the work. We always find solutions.

Can you describe your creative process?

I start by drawing a sketch or building a 3D model. The most satisfying part is watching the process: from a sketch to the actual object. When you see the sketch it’s hard to imagine that it’s possible to create it the way it was imagined, and when we do, it’s a magnificent feeling.

Are apprenticeships essential to the craft?

I always have an apprentice. Passing on knowledge is critical for craftsmanship to survive. I was trained by a Compagnon du Tour de France. However, the craft is gaining visibility thanks to initiatives that are highlighting little known crafts that were disappearing, enabling them to re-emerge.

Where does your inspiration come from?

From nature and contemporary art. Inspiration is in the air, it’s not surprising to find that sources of inspiration have become increasingly similar. However, the result will be different as we each have our own style and cultural heritage that makes it unique.

Constantin Laan is a master artisan: he began his career in 2012 and he started teaching in 2012

Works

©Sebastian Mittermeier

©H. Lewandowski

©H. Lewandowski

©H. Lewandowski

©H. Lewandowski

Where

Experiences

Furniture atelier tour in Paris

1 Hour

Free