Interview: New Tendency (Manuel Goller) -Redefining Minimalism-
New Tendency is a brand based on the Bauhaus philosophy and has a contemporary sensibility, and has been attracting worldwide attention in recent years. The works they produce are not only simple and functional products, but also distinctive as individual objects. Sometimes inspired by architecture, the designs are created through the sensibility of director Manuel Goller and collaborations with artists, and while inheriting the spirit of the Bauhaus, they also bring new values. We interviewed Manuel, who visited Japan for his exhibition at Gallery Commune.
First of all, please tell us about New Tendency.
New Tendency is a furniture brand based in Berlin. Our collections are a mix of original products designed in our own studio and in collaboration with a variety of collaborators, including architects and artists. The brand itself started as a student movement at Bauhaus University, before moving to Berlin where it is now based. We value not only the Bauhaus name, but also its essential approach.
What brought you to Tokyo this time?
I am currently holding an exhibition at Gallery Commune in Tokyo, which is the main reason I came here. I am exhibiting some of my previous collections and a new series of stools that I have developed. This is my second time in Tokyo, and it is not only an interesting market, but also a place that inspires me. In Japanese culture, I am inspired by everyday scenes, from the quality of the craftsmanship to the preparation of food.
Historically, Japanese culture has been fascinated by European architects and designers such as Bruno Taut. He was one of the first architects to visit Japan and brought back his experience and knowledge to integrate into his European approach to design in the early 20th century. Although from a different era, this process of gaining inspiration from experiencing other cultures somehow creates similar values and I feel a strong connection.
Since crafts are deeply rooted in the culture in Japan, would you be interested in working with Japanese artisans to create something contemporary in the future?
Yes, I am very interested and would like to make one. I admire the attention to detail, the quality and the love for objects. There are many techniques I would like to explore, but one of them is lacquerware, which I would like to incorporate into my collection someday. I find it very appealing that it is made from natural materials yet has a luxurious feel and durability, which is one of our core values. At New Tendency, we are working on our own sustainability by using simple and long-lasting materials. I think the quality and aesthetics maintained in Japanese crafts probably stems from the sense of cherishing things.
Are there any interesting things about Berlin and Tokyo that you find similar?
Like Tokyo, Berlin is a large city. There are many unique areas scattered throughout the city, not all concentrated in a central location like in Paris. There are many different neighborhoods within the city, offering different experiences in terms of style, food, and fashion. Dispersed communities are more diverse and more likely to give rise to new trends and activities. I think that's what makes both cities such a wellspring of creativity.
In a past interview, you mentioned that New Tendency is a small team. Can you tell us more about the members and the studio space where you work on a daily basis?
Yes. Besides the studio members, we also collaborate with external parties in areas such as graphic design, photography, manufacturing, and warehousing. This decentralized approach allows us to focus on product development.
I moved into my current studio two years ago. The building was designed by architects Johanna Meyer Grobrügge and Sam Chermayeff. It is one of the few apartment complexes in Berlin where the owners both design and live in the building. With an open floor plan and layout, it is designed to attract creative people such as artists and gallerists.
One of the unique things about New Tendency is the way it incorporates color. How do you decide what colors to add to your materials?
The colors change from time to time. My current color palette was inspired by the house of Mexican architect Luis Barragán, from the early 20th century, that I saw in Mexico City. Inside the house there is a high-rise staircase, and on the wall of the landing there is a brass artwork, which reflects the natural light coming in through the window and gives the space a golden light. The geometric shapes and unique use of colors are characteristic, and I aimed to incorporate these elements into everyday objects.
Along with your original designs, you have also collaborated with designers such as Judith Haase and Pierre Jorge Gonzalez, Sigurd Larsen, etc. Is there any difference in the design process between working independently and collaborating?
It varies from project to project - sometimes we give a brief, other times the artist or designer we collaborate with already has an idea and we work on adapting it to fit our collection.
Their latest piece, the Ayo Stool, was designed by Judith Haas and Pierre-Georges Gonzalez, and they have once again introduced wood into the collection. The sharpness and volume of the solid oak used in the design complements their existing metal products. As architects, this is their first commercialized piece of furniture. We are very happy to be involved in this way, and we always try to create something new for our collaborators.
Are there any creators or brands you would like to collaborate with next?
I have collaborated with many different brands in the past, and I would like to continue to collaborate with many different people. Recently, I collaborated with Mad Happy, a brand from LA, and we will be announcing a new collaboration soon.
Outside of design, do you have any passions or hobbies?
I'm very interested in art and have a collection of some of the works of artists I admire. I also try to maintain a work-life balance by getting out of the city and enjoying outdoor activities, so I sometimes go hiking around Berlin to spend time in nature.
Interviewer : Yusho Nishioka
