Joachim Nordwall: Design without boundaries

From high-performance sports cars to kitchen appliances and the world-famous Spork – designer Joachim Nordwall’s speciality is not to specialise. The talented creative thrives on diversity and designs without boundaries, helping businesses to stand out.

By Malin Norman | Main Photo: Steven Wade

After design school in Switzerland and a career at Electrolux in Stockholm and Sydney, Nordwall set up his own business in 2002. Electrolux was his first client, and over the years he has designed a range of home appliances, from vacuum cleaners to toasters to Grand Cuisine, an ultra-luxury brand. “The technology for professional kitchens is more advanced, and the idea was to provide a range of high-end designs for the exclusive consumer market,” he explains.

One of the most reputable clients is Koenigsegg Automotive, a Swedish manufacturer of high-performance hyper sports cars. In 2015, Regera was launched with Nordwall’s innovative design of the exterior in collaboration with founder Christian von Koenigsegg. It became a big hit at the Geneva Motor Show and led to the big breakthrough of the car manufacturer. Earlier this year, Koenigsegg’s new star Jesko was presented, also at Geneva Motor Show. “Jesko brings breathtaking technology together with an outstanding and praised design,” says Nordwall.

But not all products are for the luxury segment. In 2003, Nordwall teamed up with Swedish company Light My Fire and designed a lunchbox with cutlery and accessories. The combined fork and spoon, called Spork, became a huge success and more than 40 million have been sold worldwide. This is not just design; it is a clever solution, and many people recognise and use it. “I guess this is my speciality, not to be specialised,” the designer elaborates. “Designing a low-price product for the big consumer market or high-performance cars are equally fun – I really enjoy that contrast.”

Photo: Light My Fire

Another collaboration is with Charge Amps, offering charging solutions for the electrical vehicle market. They have developed the cable RAY for smart and efficient charging, and continue to work on new products for the segment. “As a product designer, you can work with most types of consumer products,” Nordwall emphasises. “For me, it’s important to continuously challenge myself to learn and develop as a designer.”

Together with his wife Beatrice – nee von Koenigsegg – Nordwall is now also launching his own accessory brand, Loluma’s Suburbs. The products stand for empowerment and make you feel dressed for any occasion, whether on the red carpet, on the beach or in the boardroom. Scarves can be mixed endlessly, depending on your mood or how you want to express yourself.

Web: www.jnordwall.com and www.lolumas.com

Instagram: @jnordwalldesign and @lolumassuburbs

Photo: J. Nordwall Design