Ode to accessible home decor: Meet contemporary forerunners RiRa Objects

RiRa Objects put an emphasis on all things unique, merging upcoming creators with well-established artists. Photography by Walter Pierre.

Netherlands-based RiRa Objects saw daylight midst global uncertainty. Founded in 2020, stylist Gijsje Ribbens and fashion agent Bart Ramakers introduced their new project right at the epicentre of the Covid-19 pandemic. With increased time spent indoors, the creative duo set sights on an inspirational platform offering a carefully curated selection of unique interior pieces.

“Bart and I took these walks during the first Covid-lockdown here in Amsterdam,” Ribbens recalls. “We both just moved into new houses. I had a baby. When decorating my house, I found it surprising that there wasn’t any platform where you can purchase one-of-a-kind, handmade objects without being a price upon request-gallery.”

Photography by Walter Pierre

Ribbens connection with contemporary design traces back to her youth. Growing up in a progressive home filled with playful objects and unexpected clashes, a home decor-focused project did hit close to home.

“I grew up in a house full of art and design. Plenty of Ettore Sottsass-totems and vintage design mixed with graduation projects from students of the famous Design Academy Eindhoven. I remember thinking how uncomfortable our Martin Visser couch was, but still my parents and grandparents passion for interior left a notable mark on me.”

Although coming from a design-oriented household, and eventually exploring the business behind the scenes through her then-boyfriend who studied design, fashion caught Ribbens attention the most. “I have always studied and worked in that field. I would never call myself a design expert at all, but I do know what I like.”

Photography by Walter Pierre

Arguably, fashion is what truly fuelled the emergence of RiRa Objects. Considering Ribbens and Ramakers both coming from a fashion background, they naturally infused l’essence de la mode into their design venture. “I think our backgrounds are reflected in our selection with our love for colour, texture, and shape. I hope that what we do is perceived as fun and serious at the same time. The feeling I wish people have with RiRa is a bit like a box of chocolates or a bag of candies with the notion of what to pick.”

The inaugural collection demonstrated a strong eye for leading design talents. Dutch designer Sabine Marcelis was one, presenting standout mirrors in a variety of colour ways, while industrial designer Vincent De Rijk released uplifting bowls in lustrous shapes. When asking about a dream collaboration, the answer was obvious.

“Gaetano Pesce.”