2_1_ScanMag_80_Sep-Oct_2015_Q9_Scan Magazine 1 15/09/2015 16:54 Page 38
Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Furniture Design from Norway
Aker Brygge, Oslo. Photo Tomasz Majewski
Scandinavian outdoor furnishing Centred on responsible production, quality materials, an abundant legacy and a distinctively Scandinavian look, Vestre AS has profiled itself as a highly modern yet historically aware manufacturer of designer furniture for outdoor environments. For the company’s CEO, Jan Christian Vestre, there is only one goal: “To be the very best at what we do – always.”
and discipline that informs our manufacturing has always been present, and we’re proud to let that heritage shine through.”
By Julie Lindén | Photos: Vestre AS
Today Vestre’s manufacturing repertoire mainly consists of urban outdoor furniture designed to withstand the test of all seasons and encourage social interaction in open spaces. Add to this range a list of modern products that further facilitate ur-
It was in 1947 that Johs. Vestre Mekanisk Industri A/S was set up in Haugesund, located between Stavanger and Bergen in western Norway. Over the course of a few years the company became market leaders in producing park benches, motion equipment, playground equipment and fences. Conditions on the west coast were harsh, humid and windy, leading the company to develop a strong sense of quality and authentic craftsmanship when creating furniture for shared social spaces. The foundation was laid for what Jan Christian, a third-generation bearer of the Vestre name, today maintains makes the core values and heart of the company. “A thorough design expression, quality that
38 | Issue 80 | September 2015
stands the test of time and an environmentally sustainable process of production. This permeates everything we do,” he says, adding: “The respect for the craft
Clerkenwell Design Week. Photo: Jim Stephenson
Democratic design – from benches to bollards
In 1949 Vestre supplied benches for the opening of the Town Hall Square in Haugesund.