T.D.C: Menu | Nepal Projects

Danish design brand Menu has launched a soft furnishings collection, Nepal Projects. Developed in collaboration with Denmark's development cooperation in Danida, Nepal Projects provides much-needed fair employment and future opportunities in one of the world’s poorest countries by combining traditional fabric working skills with a Scandinavian design aesthetic.

“Nepal Projects grew from our desire to use Menu as a platform for making a positive difference. Many young Nepali women from poor families risk being lured into prostitution. Through education of children and employment of young women we offer a sound and viable alternative. The Nepal Projects is our way to celebrate great craftsmanship, while helping vulnerable workers secure a better future for themselves and their families.” – Bjarne Hansen, owner & founder of Menu.

Images via Menu

To create the collection, Menu worked with four Scandinavian studios including Danish studio Norm Architects, Stockholm design agency Afteroom, Swedish collective Note Design Studio and Danish interiors brand A Hint of Neon. Together they worked closely with locals in Nepal to unite new designs with ancient craft techniques.

The result makes up part of the new Menu collection of home accessories and includes exquisite hand-weaved scarves and blankets, textural cushions, practical desktop containers, roomy laundry bags, and sweet little teddy bears for kids and grown-ups alike.

Images via Menu, Note Design Studio and Afteroom

Himalayan cashmere, merino wool, leather and cotton of the finest quality are the main ingredients in the collection. Bridging traditions of East and West, the carefully crafted items are finished in muted grey, blue, green and red tones to suit a minimalistic Scandinavian home decoration style.

Last night Nepal Projects was officially launched in Oslo, Norway at the beautiful design store Kollekted by.