Serax’s Dune and Zuma tableware reflect the eclectic vision of Kelly Wearstler
Designer Kelly Wearstler, known for her multi-sensory interiors, and Belgian brand Serax collaborated on the Dune and Zuma tableware collections in 2023.
WHAT DO ancient ceramics, Bauhaus style, and 3D vector graphics have in common?
Well, they’ve all served as inspiration for the Dune and Zuma tableware collections, created by the acclaimed American designer Kelly Wearstler with the Belgian company Serax. These two collections embody her eclectic aesthetics, where different colors, materials, and patterns play freely together.
Based in Los Angeles, Kelly Wearstler is particularly known for her designs in lavish hotel and restaurant interiors. Whether designing interiors or products, one of the cornerstones of her style lies in the unrestricted fusion of the vintage world and modern techniques.
“I was inspired by the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient civilizations, envisioning ways to reinterpret timeless elements for our modern era. Zuma, for instance, is a nod to the marriage of cutting-edge technology and history, while Dune finds its essence in organic forms and materials found in the natural world,” Wearstler describes.
Zuma plates come to life with geometric lines and grids, drawing inspiration from the design principles of Bauhaus.
The serene Dune series features monochromatic dishes in various materials.
In addition to sweet delicacies, the Dune cake stands are versatile enough to serve a range of savory treats, from fresh bread to cheese assortments.
Even though Wearstler started her career as a designer already back in the 1990s, collaborating with Serax meant a completely new territory for her – the Dune and Zuma series are her debut as a tableware designer.
Serax’s products were, however, familiar to her from many of her previous projects, and their strong character and tactile feel had long appealed to her. The initiative for collaboration actually came from the designer herself.
In addition to ceramics, Wearstler explored a variety of other materials.
In addition to ceramics, Wearstler explored a variety of other materials when bringing the two collections to life. The Zuma series is complemented by glassware with amber tones, while the Dune collection features glasses, marble bowls, wooden cake stands, and even cutlery.
Zuma glasses showcase an amber hue intensifying towards the base.
Just like other pieces in the series, mouth-blown Dune glassware boasts delicate rims.
The Dune cake stands are also available in ash wood, known for its distinctive grain patterns.
The collaboration between Serax and Kelly Wearstler began at the designer’s initiative – Wearstler had taken a liking to Serax while using the brand’s products in her own projects.
While the Zuma collection aims to strike a balance between futuristic vector patterns and a handcrafted feel, the Dune series seeks inspiration from natural forms and textures.
“Within Dune, we experimented with the sculptural crests and ridges that echo ancient pottery techniques. We layered unique marble pieces throughout the offering as a testament to our own studio history, and to further evoke these traditional ancient forms,” Wearstler explains.
Effortless mix-and-matchability lies at the core of Wearstler’s design philosophy. Here, Zuma plates harmonize with Dune marble bowls in a tasteful tableau.
Warm sienna is one of the color options available in the Zuma collection.
When asked for table-setting tips, Wearstler encourages approaching something as ordinary as setting the table with a boldly experimental attitude – breaking from routines can sometimes lead to unexpected and delightful discoveries.
“It’s important for me to approach every table-setting with a sense of boundless exploration.”
“Finding synchronicity across dissonance is central to my designs and table-settings. It’s important for me to approach every table-setting with a sense of boundless exploration. Through a process of fearless experimentation, you will discover your authentic voice.”
In addition to the Serax collaboration, one of the highlights of Kelly Wearstler’s 2023 has been the release of her new book, Synchronicity.
Who: Kelly Wearstler
American designer, born in 1967 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Founded Kelly Wearstler Interior Design (KWID) in Los Angeles in 1995 and has since worked as an interior designer for residential, hospitality, and commercial spaces.
Notable works: Viceroy Hotels & Resorts, Avalon Hotel (Beverly Hills), The Tides South Beach Hotel (Miami), Bergdorf Goodman Restaurant (New York City).
Recognitions: Architectural Digest: AD 100, Elle Décor: The A-List, Wallpaper* Magazine: Top 20 Designers, Time Magazine: The Design 100.
Authored several books on design.
See also:
• Dune and Zuma collections >
• All products by Serax >
Text: Nora Uotila Images: Serax
Published on 20 Dec, 2023
