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Founder Margaret Sellergren explains the inspiration and eco-conscious principles behind Nestify, an online furniture brand that makes sustainability and quality the heart of its creations
During the eighties, there was a revival of cane furniture in the US, where Margaret Sellergren grew up; such as the cane chairs that Austrian cabinet maker Michael Thonet had popularised in the early 20th century, or the Hans Wegner-designed CH24 “Wishbone” chairs that are now a Scandinavian staple.
Sellergren fondly remembers rocking on bentwood rocking chairs, which featured a woven cane seat and back. “I also travelled down to the Caribbean for holidays as a child, and there I was exposed to the use of hardwood furniture and that had a big influence on me,” she shares. “I really fell in love with that tropical aesthetic and the use of natural materials in the home.”
These memories left such a deep impression that when Sellergren launched her furniture brand Nestify earlier this year, she focused on producing classic and timeless pieces made with sustainably-sourced fine teak and woven cane.
“Cane is lighter than upholstery. Air flows through so it is particularly good for the tropical climate,” she explains. “It is a strong, durable yet breathable material; it is also historically significant, available in ecologically-sound ways and has a beautiful, delicate appearance while being timeless, sophisticated and artistic.”
The American entrepreneur, whose parents went on to open a furniture store in St. Croix in the Caribbean in 2003, continues to draw inspiration from their work ethic and hands-on approach. “When I first joined my parents in Central Java for a visit to the manufacturer, I was blown away by their collection and liked the idea of being in a business of items that will make your space more beautiful,” says Sellergren, who is currently based in Singapore. Thus, the idea for Nestify, was born.
“Making the home a cosy and warm place you want to spend time in is a calling,” she adds. “Nestify helps create that for our customers.”