Handcrafted minimalism from Melo

I’m very excited about sharing my first interiors discovery of 2016, Swedish furniture studio Melo, as it embodies so many things I love – simplicity, high-quality craftsmanship, and beautiful yet functional Scandinavian design.

Melo was founded by five Stockholm-based friends, including interior photographer Sara Medina Lind and furniture maker Olle Holman, who first started chatting about combining minimal design and handcrafted production while staying at a summerhouse for a crayfish party (an August tradition in Sweden). It took six months for the initial idea to crystalise into a full-blown project, and another two years of planning and prototype-testing before Melo was officially launched in late 2015, but the result – a striking collection of solid-ash furniture – was worth the wait.

Melo’s approach to design and production is wonderful. All unnecessary details have been removed, and everything is handmade in the small village of Mockfjärd in Dalarna (a region often referred to as the ‘heart of Sweden’ and famous for its crafts) using only the best materials. According to co-founder Axel, the aim is to create “timeless, modest pieces that blend into their environment and last over time, both in terms of design and quality”. As for the company name, it was the nickname of Sara’s Gran Canarian grandfather, Carmelo Medina Tadeo, and was chosen in honour of the group’s creative heritage.

The latest piece in the collection, an ash table, has just been launched and, excitingly, Melo now offers international delivery (excluding the USA and Canada). More designs are set to follow over the coming months, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the website for details.

Photography by Melo