AGNETA STAKE
Vice Director and Design Manager at Nola
Nola was founded and is run by Agneta Stake and today based in Stockholm and Malmö. For over 30 years they have developed and honed ideas, products and visions for the urban public space. Nola works with many of Sweden's top designers to go from concept to production. The production takes place exclusively in Sweden, as they work for a developed environmental thinking and believe in a close and direct contact with those they work with.
On Wednesday, 11th January 2017, at the Swedish Furniture Industry’s annual conference, Nola’s Agneta Stake was named ‘Personality of the Year’ in recognition of the contributions she has made to the industry throughout her career. A spokesperson for the jury praised Agneta’s ‘determination to realise her vision for quality design,’ and commended her for ‘fostering a sense of confidence in the industry.’ The jury also acknowledged Agneta’s commitment to ‘building a strong distribution network’ and maintaining a firm ‘ambition to continue manufacturing in Sweden.’
What inspires you to design?
I have always been interested in creative work and my challenge is to provide nice looking furniture for public spaces, and to give people the opportunity to experience a nice and functional place –a place that we all can use and be inspired from.
How did you develop your style?
I have an eye and a feeling for beautiful and harmonious things. All kinds of things inspire my creativity. Also art has been a source for me to work from.
What do you think is the biggest challenge in the furniture industry today?
To work for a better environment and high quality products that people find worth paying some more for, while also considering value for money and not using cheap things that don´t last.
What gets you through the day?
My energy and joy and curiosity towards both people and things.
Are you a tea or coffee person?
Coffee.
What do you think is the greatest invention of all time?
Electricity.
What is something you can’t live without?
Electricity, water and food.
What is your favourite brand at the moment?
Sara Pacini for her clothing, and Nola for outdoor furniture.
What is your favourite place to eat?
I don´t have one-always, I am always curious to taste something new.
What product excited you the most recently?
A new shelter for national geographic from Källemo
What’s your favourite colour at the moment?
Cannot say
What is the greatest thing you’ve learnt through your career?
To never give up
What is the achievement you’re most proud of?
My family and my company
What methodologies, systems or routines do you have in place to make sure you are productive everyday?
I follow my senses- I know if I am satisfied with my day.
If you could give one piece of advice to young female (designers), what would it be?
Follow your intuition and look around to find out what could be a need for many people.