London-based designer Hend Krichen creates timeless objects that enrich everyday lives through the use of artisanal skills and craftsmanship inspired by Krichen’s own rich heritage.
Hend Krichen (b. 1988) completed a diploma in Foundation Art & Design in 2006, before obtaining a BA in 3D Design in 2010 at Loughborough University in the UK. She subsequently graduated with an MA in Product and Space in 2012 from Kingston University, London. In between her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, she completed two internships that Krichen claims were crucial to shaping where she is in her career today. The first, in 2010, was with Established and Sons; while the second was with design and architecture Public relations company, Caro Communications in 2013.
Following the Tunisian Revolution in 2011, Krichen felt a strong urge to return to Tunisia, where she could explore her roots and contribute to the revival of the Tunisian handicrafts industry. During her time in Tunisia, Krichen set up a network of manufacturers, with whom she continues to work to this day. From these creative relationships came Krichen’s breakthrough design, Tunisia Made. While the collection was originally designed during her MA studies at Kingston, it wasn't launched until after her graduation in 2012. Other notable projects include the Porto Collection of small, ceramic vessels, designed in London and manufactured in Portugal, and the Breakfast Set, which is a collection of earthenware tableware.
In 2014, Krichen established her studio in Barbican, London; moving to East London in 2015, where it has been located ever since. Krichen’s designs–inspired by Scandinavian simplicity–capture forms which are at first glance boldly geometric, and on further inspection exude an element of luxury and opulence. Claiming her inspiration stems from North African and Arab influences, Krichen embraces the variety and authenticity of the crafts manufacturing platforms available across a plethora of cultures. This approach has also helped in maintaining an ethical network of manufacturers across various locations. The materials she works with are kept in their raw and natural form, physically revealing each country’s identity and showcasing the available natural resources through products that can be used within the home in everyday life.
