Secluded cabins in the woods, each with a neighboring presence: the peaceful retreat offered by Furu's cabins
In the heart of Stockholm, renowned designer Furu is working on an apartment renovation, bringing a fresh touch to the city's skyline. But the roots of this creative force stretch far beyond the Swedish capital, reaching back to 2000 when Aminata Sambe and Nadia Saksou began their careers as project managers at Villa Eugeฬnie, a creative agency based in Brussels.
For over two decades, Sambe and Saksou have left an indelible mark on the fast-paced fashion industry, working on creative projects for prestigious brands such as Chanel, Hermeฬs, Lemaire, Dries Van Noten, and many more. Their reputation for innovation and sustainability has been evident in every project they've undertaken.
In 2020, amidst the pandemic, they decided to branch out and establish a new project management studio named Furu. Inspired by the Swedish word for "pine tree," the studio is located in Berlin. The name, "Furu," symbolises resilience, representing a pine tree that can grow on rocky soil and become strong. It also holds a deeper meaning in Japanese, where "furu" means "to fall from above" in the context of rain or snow, symbolising their capacity to grow regardless of the circumstances.
One of Furu's most notable projects is the Fabriken Furillen hotel on Gotland, Sweden's largest island. This brutalist structure, surrounded by rustic cabins, faces the Baltic Sea and a landscape filled with Scots pine. The houses, made mostly of natural materials, are next to each other in a natural reserve, with a focus on preserving privacy and creating small courtyards with deep sightlines to the landscape. The courtyards contain gardens designed by Anna Lundell, adding a touch of greenery and tranquility to the overall design.
Furu's work is not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a connection between people and their environment. This philosophy was evident in the set design for the Lemaire S/S 2025 ready-to-wear show and the subsequent A/W show during Paris Fashion Week Men's A/W 2025. The set was a raised circular runway that led into the brand's courtyard, with a focus on sustainability and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Back in Sweden, Furu has completed a summer home for a family and a house for Aminata Sambe on two plots in Gotland. In Sambe's house, a sofa by Josef Pentenrieder for Hans Kaufeld and a vintage desk lamp by Louis Kalff for Philips stand out, adding a touch of elegance and history to the modern design.
In addition to their work in Sweden, Furu is also supporting supplier and client relationships for the construction of a Glenn Sestig-designed home in Antwerp. Nadia Saksou, who owns a charming old house in La Droฬme, France, is another testament to their commitment to creating beautiful, sustainable spaces.
Furu represents more than just a design studio; it's a symbol of resilience, a testament to the power of growth, and a bridge connecting people with their environment. As Furu continues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see more innovative and sustainable designs that inspire and captivate.
