A tried and tested material in a new guise
1.11.2019
Translation: machine translated
Enamel was forgotten for a while. Now various designers are putting a contemporary twist on the tried-and-tested material and giving us a friendly reminder.
If there's one material that I've completely lost sight of, it's enamel. I used to think it was old-fashioned and didn't realise its benefits. Designers seem to feel the same way because they have favoured other materials over enamel in recent decades. It was only used in a hidden way for pans. Now it is back in fashion. From cups and plates to storage solutions, the natural raw material is popping up in current collections, interior design magazines and Pinterest pinboards.
On the one hand, I explain this hype by the fact that designers and consumers are longing for sustainable raw materials. Enamel is one of the few materials that is almost impossible to break: It is rustproof, scratch-resistant and suitable for the dishwasher. For scatterbrains like me who like to drop things in the kitchen, it's a good alternative to ceramic crockery. If you want something new after a while, it can be recycled as scrap metal with a clear conscience. Manufacturers such as the long-established company Riess also produce enamel in a CO2-neutral way and in their own waterworks.
On the other hand, enamel is perhaps becoming so popular again because it no longer looks so old-fashioned in the new collections. Whether it's crockery sets in retro colours or with bright prints - there's something for everyone.
Monochrome look
Single-coloured enamel has always been around, just not so gloomy: it now comes in aubergine or black with angular silhouettes. White enamel is also still available, but it is combined with other materials such as wood in a more varied way than before.
Illustrations
Enamelled tableware with prints is more eye-catching and decorative than the monochrome versions. If you like the country house style, floral patterns are your match. If you're more into whimsical motifs, choose a design from brands such as Seletti, which play with colourful and surreal images.
Retro look
Pastel-coloured and dotted enamel designs exude charm and are reminiscent of your grandma's cosy kitchen. They are playful and mix up your table setting.
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
Home + Kitchen
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