EN312, image credit: Haus Otto
Haus Otto is an artist and design duo working across the fields of industrial- and object design, space and creative direction. By bridging and blending different subjects and fields of practice, Haus Otto conceptually explores the environmental and contextual aspect of design today and creates transformative and humorous interventions. Not only thinking in objects but systems, Haus Otto investigates and illuminates the larger context of everyday objects, ranging from production and distribution systems to ecological cycles and material research.
We talked to Patrick and Nils about their works and the production process.
Interview: Onur Çoban
Who are Patrick Henry Nagel & Nils Körner? Can you briefly tell us about yourself?
We are both graduates of the Stuttgart Academy of Art, where we met and started collaborating on various projects. From the beginning, it was clear that we complement each other well: Nils is the analytical, sensitive, and structured part of the team and primarily takes responsibility for the aesthetic and production of products. He enjoys finding logic and structure in design and works intensively on visual identity, product development and prototyping, while also keeping an eye on the financial aspects. Patrick, on the other hand, is more interested in larger concepts and visions and tends to think long-term.
He is mainly involved in the concept of the design and research and also strategy, and business development, frequently bringing new ideas and perspectives while keeping the overall concept and long-term direction of a project in mind. Patrick focuses on connecting different topics and approaches to develop creative and innovative solutions. He is also increasingly responsible for business acquisition to gain new projects and strengthen partnerships and client relationships. However, the areas of responsibility are not always fixed and change very much depending on the project. We work together in constant dialogue, exchanging ideas at any time, and share the creative direction equally.
Haus Otto portrait, image credit: Julia Sang Nguyen
How would you describe your design philosophy?
We believe that nowadays we have to think about products in a much greater context. Not only about how it looks and which materials to use but also where the materials come from and what happens with them afterward. So our concept of an “Ecosystem” is the idea of seeing a product as part of a greater system and also designing and shaping the system itself.
This includes ways of disassembling products so the different parts can be reused or recycled, product communication, or the context in which the products are displayed. We also try to create new networks and collaborations for companies to share assets, services, and resources, moving closer to a “sharing” economy, which not only reduces costs for companies but also encourages greater exchange within the industry.
Traktor Chair, image credit: Nils Körner
How does the process of creating together as Patrick and Nils work? Can you tell us a bit about the design and production process in your work? What can you say about the synergy that emerges when different perspectives and skills come together?
We engage in many discussions and often approach a project from two different perspectives. We examine a project from various angles, allowing us to dive deeper into the details and explore different solutions. The process only ends when we both feel that there is nothing more to take away or add, and that each of us is satisfied with the outcome. When both sides can see their vision and ideas reflected in the design and everything feels cohesive both conceptually and visually, we know it’s complete. Our collaboration is rooted in a very deep friendship, and it's not just about working together – There is always a lot of fun and laughter involved in the design process.
Stair Shelf, image credit: Haus Otto
What factors do you take into consideration when researching materials or choosing materials for new projects? Could you tell us a bit about the material choices in your works?
The choice of materials very much depends on the context. We aim to find the best material based on the company’s infrastructure and always strive to create products that can be easily disassembled, making them ready for recycling or using a monomaterial approach.
Currently, we are particularly interested in wood as a renewable material and are collaborating with a very innovative company that "welds" wood, eliminating the need for adhesives like glue. It’s always important for us to keep sustainability in mind throughout the process. Often, it's not just about the material itself but also about considering the broader context in which it will be used, from production to end-of-life, ensuring that our choices align with a sustainable future.
Zooom Rug for Bottone, image credit: Julia Sang Nguyen
Which of your works has excited you the most in terms of the design process and the final product?
Probably the FARM project, which is not exactly a product but more an experimental and holistic approach to design, stands out as one of the most exciting for us in terms of the design process and the final outcome. It was a self-initiated project, so we had the freedom to explore ideas without constraints, which was incredibly inspiring.
FARM project, image credit: Julia Sang Nguyen
“The project was highly collaborative, and it was amazing to break down the boundaries between agriculture and design. Working closely with the people from the farm as well as the group itself allowed us to create something that was not only innovative but also deeply connected to its context.”
Can you tell us a little about the sources of inspiration behind your work? Who are the names you follow with curiosity in this field or in different disciplines?
Probably our biggest inspiration is being outside in nature and having simple everyday conversations with each other, friends, collaborators, or strangers. Art and pop culture also play a significant role in our inspiration, particularly the way they mutually influence and nourish design. For example, the Fluxus movement or the radical design movement of the 60s, driven by artists and designers like Ettore Sottsass, have had a profound impact on us. These movements emphasized a break from tradition, promoting bold, experimental approaches to design. Additionally, designers like Achille Castiglioni and other Italian designers continue to inspire us, especially with their commitment to simplicity, functionality, and creating timeless pieces.
Hold On, image credit: David Spaeth
Are you excited about the future and what are your plans?
Yes, we are genuinely excited about the future. The landscape of design is constantly evolving, and that offers a lot of opportunities for change in these challenging times. In terms of plans, we are looking to expand our creative practice by collaborating across various fields – whether it’s engaging with different design disciplines, industries, or experts from sectors such as technology and sustainability.
