For our most recent conversation we sat down with a dear friend of Eldvarm, Natalie van Dijk. Natalie is the powerhouse behind Lekker Home in Boston, one of our first U.S. retailers.
It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with Natalie and to celebrate the role she’s played in Eldvarm’s journey. We covered everything from her childhood surrounded by makers and designers, her belief that good design has the power to drastically improve your life and her winter morning ritual by the flame to ease her into the day.
Could you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to be interested in design?
I grew up in a creative household — my parents were in the fashion industry, so I was surrounded by makers and designers from a very early age. Even as a child I noticed the impact design could have on a person and a room.
I followed in my parents’ footsteps, so to speak, studying and then working in textiles in Amsterdam, Paris, and New York. It was while I was on my honeymoon, in the summer of 2002, that my husband (and now business partner) and I decided to venture into furniture and decor. As we travelled around Europe, we realised the U.S. didn’t have access to many high quality European brands, or the type of shopping experience you get there, so we decided to create it. We got back home, quit our jobs the very next day, and started planning for Lekker Home.
Where do you find inspiration? Is there a particular period in art or design that speaks to you?
Inspiration can come from anywhere for me. Travelling and exploring other cultures has always been a huge source of inspiration, but I also find inspiration in my everyday life — whether it’s in nature, or while I’m on a run, or someone I cross paths with, or a piece of artwork.
We like to have books that inspire in our showroom so we are always keen to hear what books others find inspiring.
It’s hard to pick a favourite — I’ve always believed that the more you read, the more you learn. I feel like I can never read enough. I try to read about all different design sensibilities, especially those that are different from my own. There’s always a new perspective, or something new to learn.
One book I’ve been loving is Ralph Lauren A Way of Living: Home, Design, Inspiration. I started my career in the U.S. at Ralph Lauren, and my time there has influenced how I view design, and how I run my business.
We love your philosophy that ‘good design makes life better.’ It’s so simple and true. Could you tell us a little more about that?
It’s just that — good design has so much power. It can bring comfort and relaxation, it can energise and inspire, it can bring people together. Good design helps you feel your best, and when you feel your best, your life becomes a bit easier.
How and when did you first discover Eldvarm?
We discovered Eldvarm back in the Fall of 2016. I am always proud when Lekker is one of the first US retailers that has a hand in growing a brand in this market. We made it into the New York Times Holiday guide together, we’ve had in-store events, and overall great success with the brand.
Here’s a photo from our Wine + Cheese With Louise event in 2019!
Which is your favourite Eldvarm product and why?
The Emma Collection (Companion Set and Basket) is my favourite. I use it daily in my own home. The blowpoker is the perfect example of “good design makes life better.” It’s a beautiful, fool-proof tool for a perfect fire every time.
We like to think of collectibles in the home as a way of connecting with moments and memories. What is the most precious item in your home and what is the story behind it?
I have a Laguiole wine key that was given to me on my wedding day by one of my mom’s best friends. He was a lover of life and has since passed away. I use that wine key and think of him every time we open a bottle.
We think of the fireplace as the heart of the home. Do you have any particular memories or associations with the fire from your childhood or more recently?
Fires on Friday nights are a ritual for my family. In the cold weather, we warm up and hang out around the fireplace. In the warmer weather, we head outside to our firepit, where we love to roast marshmallows and grill steaks. Whether we’re inside or outdoors, I feel like sitting by the fire helps us be present.
We believe that lighting the fire or a candle can really have the effect of lowering the sounds of life, taking a moment to slow it down. Is this something you relate to?
Absolutely. I light candles Monday through Sunday, especially in the Wintertime. I love the soothing light as I ease into the day with a cup of coffee, and as I wind down at night.
Eldvarm has built itself around four core elements. These are Love, Beauty, Generosity, Vulnerability. Which of these elements speaks to you the most and why?
Being in the design business, I have a deep appreciation for beauty. I’m fortunate to spend my days surrounded by beautiful things. That said, I think vulnerability is so important. Being engaged, and present, and willing to talk about your inner thoughts helps build connection and understanding.
Be sure to visit Lekker Home next time you find yourself in Boston to discover a treasure trove of European design pieces. Follow along for endless inspiration on Instagram.