Dreaming of Materiality and Form
David Thulstrup wants to elevate our sense of place by blending the outer and inner spaces we inhabit.
From the iconic restaurant space he created for Noma to his minimalist boutique for Mark Kenly Domino Tan Studio, the work of David Thulstrup's eponymous studio is immediately recognisable. Seamlessly integrating textures and surfaces that illuminate the character of any space, Thustrup's style is contextually sensitive, drawing bespoke techniques and raw materials into refined aesthetic harmony.
What's your dream?
I have many different dreams, small ones and bigger ones. One is a country house I can build and design with all my experience and design vision. Another is to design a hotel with a unique location in the deserts of Arizona or the fjords in Norway, which would also enable me to enage my experience with residential projects and hospitality projects.
How do you dream of contributing to the world?
I want to design environments, interiors, houses and hotels that elevate one's sense of a place and enrich the architectural journey and the experience of space. I want to contribute with design that endures for many generations to come, design that is rooted in materiality and form: the things that last.
What do you think the world needs more of? And less of?
Since we are in the realm of design and architecture, I think we need less architecture and design that is chasing trends. There are so many new-built environments that are rooted in trend and language rather than in form and materiality, in a connection between the indoor and exterior. I think we need to design with what is timeless in mind; to create better exteriors more generally, and to develop architecture that is anchored in a better connection between indoor and exterior.
Share your thoughts on the theme 'DARE TO DREAM.'
Dreaming is essential for all creative work. It is a privilege to collaborate with clients who open up about their aspirations, as it enables me to apply my expertise and creativity to bring their dreams to life. My own dreams revolve around transforming projects and aiding clients in creating their ideal environments. It is truly fulfilling to work with individuals who have bold ambitions – such as chefs conceptualising a new restaurant, or homeowners envisioning their dream house as I am able to be a part in shaping these visions.