From Europe with Love 👀 January 26, 2025

Buonasera from Hanmer Springs!

Kia ora to this week’s edition of what’s hot in European products and brands.

Right now, I’m parked outside a public library in Hanmer Springs, borrowing Wi-Fi (and possibly overstaying my welcome) to send out this week’s picks.

Our (temporary) nomad life in a camper has its quirks, but it’s a reminder to slow down—like the bubbling geothermal pools here that inspired thoughts of calm, reflective design.

Imagine a red ceramic bong that could double as a gallery piece and a mug with an oversized handle that adds a playful twist to your morning brew.

Intrigued? Let’s get to it.

If you’re new here: Each week, I share five European design gems I’ve discovered in the past 7 days.

Your shortcut to cool products, no endless scrolling required.

With love ☀️
–Jakob

Friedrich Mini Mirror [🇩🇪]

If you’ve followed this newsletter for a while, you know I appreciate mirrors that double as a design object. The Friedrich Mini Mirror by Objekte Unserer Tage is compact, playful, and brings a pop of joy to any corner. Made in Germany, it’s available in fun, bold colors like pink and yellow or this bay area blue — a little pick-me-up for your desk or vanity. Take a closer look.

Tenerife Pouch [🇪🇸]

Towel-like fabric items are having a moment. And Barcelona-based Wouf has been nailing playful utility for years with their bold patterns and durable craftsmanship. The Tenerife Pouch is their cheerful take on practicality, perfect for travel or keeping your essentials organized. It’s like carrying a little sunshine with you. Discover it here!

SB001 Red Ceramic Bong [🇮🇹]

Designed by Simone Bonanni for Milanese brand Weed’d, this bold red ceramic bong is as much a conversation starter as it is a design object. Its sculptural form and vivid color reflect the brand’s mission to reimagine smoking as a moment for calm and creativity. Light it up here

Mega Mug [🇫🇷]

Winter calls for oversized mugs, and the Mega Mug by Ceju Ceramics delivers. Handmade in France, it’s got a cozy, imperfect charm that only artisanal craftsmanship can provide. Whether for coffee, tea, or soup (let’s not limit ourselves), this mug feels like a hug in ceramic form. Check it out.

Gradient Watch [🇩🇰]

Forget traditional dials — this watch from Copenhagen uses color gradients to tell time in a whole new way. Designed by Ewa Bryzek and Allen Shakir of LAWA DESIGN, it blends playful experimentation with elegant simplicity. Perfect for anyone who prefers their accessories to spark conversation. It’s already fully funded since last week but you can still late pledge on Kickstarter.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FIND THIS WEEK? HIT REPLY WITH #1, #2, #3, #4 OR #5 – I’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS!