Thursday, December 12, 2013

Nambe: Art Designed for Everyday Living.

Nambé is the epitome of modernism’s mid-century servingware.  Founded in 1951 near Nambé Pueblo, New Mexico, its pieces are made from an eight-metal alloy having the luster of silver and solidity of iron.

Amazingly, the material was developed by a former scientist from Los Alamos Lab (the birthplace of the atomic bomb.)  The groundbreaking compound retains both heat and cold for long periods of time, making it ideal for ice buckets and bowls.  Both oven and stovetop safe, Nambé designs do not crack, chip or tarnish.  They hold temperatures up to 500 degrees and are safe even in the chilling temperatures of the freezer. 

Each piece transcends trends and generations being both undeniably beautiful and designed with artistic integrity while ensuring that quality and function are never compromised.  Nambé is truly art designed for everyday living. 

New pieces are for sale in Nambé stores, boutiques and even some big-box stores.  Older pieces have a certain nostalgic quality.  Nambé’s pieces go with everything, bringing a modern shine to any space.  Its recent offerings incorporate an enamel finish that mimics the look of wood and sandstone, a touch that adds warmth and color to the company’s cool ripple designs.  These include several pieces by the iconic designer, Karim Rashid.
Nambé is famous for including works of designers that share their unique vision with Nambe's:  creating works of art that you can use every day.

On New York designer Wei Young:  “His designs and creations for Nambé offer innovative solutions that strive for visual beauty and enhance user experience.”  His award-winning Fruit Tree Bowl “has an irresistibly playful spirit.”



 Steve Cozzolini (NYC):  “The beauty of design work is creating memorable experiences that engage the senses through fluid and sensual form, treating everyday objects as unique sculptural art and fashion for the tabletop.”  His award-winning Chirp Kettle is described as a “stunning sculpture for the stovetop.”

 On Neil Cohen (NYC):  “Cohen’s forward reaching vision and refined sense of shape, material and workmanship characterize his concepts.  His work supplies the kind of spark that engages the human spirit.”  His award-winning Elbow Frame is reflective of Cohen’s style:  “intentional creations that are meaningful experiences in themselves, apart from their functionality.”



And finally, an iconic Nambé find:  Kissing Salt and Pepper Shakers – minimalist and modern retro.