Minimalist designs and pure materials come together in the elegant and functional collection from the Dutch label Vij5. However, Vij5 products stand out by the genuine connection and strong collaboration between the people behind the label—curators, Designers, manufacturers, and customers.
Photo by Daphne Kuilman
Arjan van Raadshooven Anieke Branderhorst are the founders of the interior design label . The two lived in the same house while studying architecture at TU/e and design at the Design Academy Eindhoven, respectively. Even back then, they had a supportive bond—when one struggled, the other would step in to help. Vij5
Anieke’s graduation project marked a turning point and the beginning of their collaboration. When the young designer was considering putting her detailed work into production, she found herself at a crossroads. On the one hand, entrusting her design to a company would likely compromise the concept behind her work. On the other hand, it would be a major challenge to create the product herself, whether or not in collaboration with a manufacturer. Fortunately, Arjan was fascinated by the tactile aspect of design, and because the connection to the sense of touch was a key feature of Anieke’s work, their collaboration began naturally. Since 2006, they have been carefully curating their own collection. In doing so, they actively seek collaborations with other young Designers to integrate new products into the collection that align with their own signature style, while maintaining control over every stage of production.
Teamwork between Anieke and Arjan is possible and productive because of their strong connection—both personally and professionally. Their respective qualities and skills complement one another. For example, Anieke is very precise and has a keen eye for detail, while Arjan focuses more on providing a broader overview. On the other hand, he is very pragmatic and systematic when it comes to production and organization, while Anieke focuses on long-term strategies from an emotional perspective. The most important element of their successful collaboration, however, is communication: “A large part of our creative process involves talking to each other,” Anieke explains. “Our personalities are completely different, and this can lead to conflicts. by Through communication, we engage in a dialogue to bridge those differences. This interaction enables us to improve the quality of our work.”
The couple also applies this approach when expanding their collaboration to external parties. Vij5 is a label whose goal is to serve as a platform where the product takes center stage. However, having the right “chemistry” with other people is essential for the curators. It’s a decisive factor in the selection process for, say, new products for the Vij5 collection. After Arjan and Anieke have considered whether the concept fits into the collection and how the product can be manufactured, they also want to meet the designer. “Our intention is to initiate an open and sincere dialogue, just as it works between the two of us,” says Arjan. “We won’t always agree with each other, but that’s precisely the point: honesty to improve the quality of our work.”
According to the couple, collaboration is an extremely valuable asset and a source of inspiration—whether with Designers, customers, or manufacturers. Arjan and Anieke usually seek out suppliers near their studio in Eindhoven so they can communicate with them in person and oversee production. Nevertheless, the couple occasionally collaborates with suppliers outside their immediate area. “We’ve traveled extensively in search of materials that perfectly match what we had in mind,” they both explain. “A manufacturer’s quality and skills are most important to us. However, we first need to feel that natural connection that’s essential for collaboration—if we don’t have that, we won’t go a by.” Their goal is to create a win-win situation for both parties. “It should be a business friendship, not cutthroat competition,” Arjan adds.
The couple doesn’t believe in competition. “Life isn’t a rat race,” Anieke explains. “We enjoy working with ambitious, driven people. But the goal is to inspire others, Share , and gradually improve the quality of our work.”
A lively and dynamic interaction is therefore necessary to improve the creative process at work. However, the close bond between Anieke and Arjan can also pose a risk to both their personal and professional lives. “As a couple who work together, it’s always tempting to immediately Share your ideas, whether you’re at home or at the office,” says Anieke. “However, we’ve noticed that we function better when we keep the two clearly separate and take regular breaks. At home and on the weekends, we prefer not to have any more emails or phone calls,” she continues.
“Any insights we have in our free time, we write down on paper or email to ourselves so we can discuss them during the workday.” Unlike in previous years, the label will not be presenting its products at the upcoming edition of the Salone del Mobile. However, both Arjan and Anieke will be attending as visitors. “The Salone is also an important social event,” they explain. “We enjoy discovering what other companies and Designers are working on and letting that inspire us.” The label wants to remain compact and flexible. As they both emphasize, successful ideas can pop up completely unexpectedly. Looking to the future, Vij5 ’s goal is to grow into the wide range of possibilities around them.
Interview with by , Federica Marie Carenini(Translated from by Vij5 ).
Connecting the Dots
Connecting the Dots showcases and presents Dutch Designers and design culture on an international stage at major design events and trade shows. Their activities are always content-driven, with a focus on highlighting the latest developments in design culture. Connecting the Dots also organizes trade shows, exhibitions, debates, and networking events.