photography Anton Rodriguez
Behind an inconspicuous looking door at the Shoreditch end of of Kingsland Road, lies a serene courtyard and the shop and design studio of Jasper Morrison.
The British designer opened the shop in 2009, inspired by his Super Normal exhibition in Tokyo, seeking “a continuation of the contact that the exhibition provided him, with everyday, useful things.” Morrison explains “my feeling is that design which follows the current ‘entertainment’ model which attaches more importance to media exposure than to the real-life performance of an object has run its course, and that it’s time for designers to shape up and design things which have built-in long-term performance. The shop is an idealistic showroom for those things, rather than a commercial venture, though you may leave with less money than you arrived!" (designboom)
The shop is small, but a haven of brilliant design. The inventive display of products – practical, everyday treasures, which are functional as well as beautiful – gives the space a workshop-like feeling. Not surprising since the shop is an extension of the design studio located next door. Work for Alessi, Vitra and German ceramics manufacturer Rosenthal is displayed alongside collaborations with Camper, Emeco and Maharam - you want to leave with everything.
The shop and space is a hidden gem in the heart of Shoreditch and a must-visit destination for design lovers.
24b Kingsland Road, London E2 8DA
Open Monday - Friday 11am - 5pm (closed during August)
jaspermorrison.com