A TALK WITH Jannick Pihl

For this second version of “A Talk With”, we have the pleasure of conversing with Jannick Pihl, from Danish textile manufacturer; Kvadrat. 

Kvadrat is known for encompassing everything from craftsmanship in some of the world’s best furniture fabrics, to fashion and art installations. 

Despite these areas covering a wide array of interests, Jannick’s flair for aesthetics and sense of sustainability allows for him to create a sphere that ensures a natural flow between the subjects.

Jannick: 
It is my sanctuary and refuge from a rather busy work life, and a space for me to both recharge and get creative. I don’t know how many times I have moved all my furniture around to get a different perspective on the space. It is obviously a space where I surround myself with beautiful objects carefully curated with a focus on materiality.

By Garment Makers:
How do you go about curating your home? 

Jannick:
Furniture and artworks are things we should all see as investments, and not just as another chair, lamp or object. I spend a lot of time on online auction sites, although I rarely bid on anything. When I finally bid on something, I find it hard not to get carried away, so I try to limit myself and only bid on the things I really can’t live without. Just be patient and let your home show who you are, and not who you want to be - it is not that difficult.

By Garment Makers:
How does sustainability affect the life choices you make? 

Jannick:
My love and affinity for natural materials makes it easy to make sustainable choices. I believe that longevity is the core of sustainability, especially when it comes to fashion - not only because of the industry’s huge waste of the resources but also knowing the amount of clothes ending up as landfills.

By Garment Makers:
How do you go about navigating the ever-changing world of fashion, without adhering to changing your wardrobe elements all the time? 

Jannick:
It is pretty simple. I do not believe that I need a new jumper or a pair of trousers based on seasonal patterns or when new collections launches. In my opinion jumpers, jeans and jackets are all garments that look much better after every time you wear them. If I manage to wear my clothes out I’d rather try to repair than replace.

By Garment Makers:
Do you have a favourite book??

Jannick:
Against Everything by Mark Greif - a collection of thought-provoking essays and a must read.

“To wish to be against everything is to want the world to be bigger than all of it, disposed to dissolve rules and compromises in a gallon or a drop, while an ocean of possibility rolls around us.”

By Garment Makers:
Do you have a preferred fabric quality, and why? 

Jannick:
Definitely woolen fabrics. Wool is an amazing material: natural, renewable, durable, and recyclable. From a light knitted merino to a heavyweight rib knit. 

By Garment Makers: 
Do you see a similarity in the sensory importance of materials used for architectural surfaces and clothing?

Jannick:
Sure, there are many similarities. One of them is that some textiles used in interiors are often seen used in the fashion industry as well. Obviously for the same purposes, but when you enter a room with heavy wool curtains, it can almost feel like being wrapped a heavy coat - it may sound stupid, but you wouldn’t believe it until you at some point find yourself in a room with woollen curtains. A material that many fashion designers use for heavy outerwear..

By Garment Makers: 
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of life, what would it be??

Jannick:
Definitely a pair of wool mohair trousers to keep me warm throughout the winter, but airy and light enough for the summer days. A breathable woollen jumper with a light nylon jacket on top. Playing it safe with a pair of black trainers.