Presence and Connection Through Design
A newcomer to 3daysofdesign, but a veteran in design, native San Franciscan Tina Frey made the trek across the pond for her first Copenhagen design festival experience. In a chaotic world, she finds peace of mind in her daily meditation practice, which also serves as a source of inspiration for her functional and sculptural pieces.
Why did you decide to join 3daysofdesign this year?
I decided to join for the first time as part of a new creative journey. The designs I'm presenting are limited edition works that sit at the intersection of design and sculpture. Through this exploration, I delve into form, materiality, scale and the role design plays in our everyday environments. Each piece is crafted with an emphasis on artistry and produced in small series or limited editions. They embody a refined vision of contemporary craftsmanship, intended for private or public spaces where art and design converge. This exhibition makes perfect sense for the brand as it introduces our work to a new audience, in a new geography, within a context that celebrates design at its most thoughtful and experimental.
What could visitors expect from your exhibition during 3daysofdesign?
Visitors was welcomed with the Orbit Collection, a series of furniture pieces with tactile forms inspired by the natural world and the cosmos. The outlines of the shapes loosely trace the three–dimensional paths of planetary orbits or stars within our solar system. The intersecting circles create unexpected surfaces—places to sit, set down a favourite drink or display meaningful objects. These pieces are both functional and sculptural, designed to make a striking statement in any space. We also hosted a special event where I shared the story behind their creation, offering insight into the inspiration and process behind the work.
What were your expectations of the festival?
I was completely open to what unfolded during the event. I believe in fully immersing myself in the experience and embracing the moment, without limiting it through preconceived ideas. All the preparation is done before the festival begins, and once it does, I was just being present and seeing what naturally evolved. I was most excited to be part of this incredible community of designers. I love the camaraderie, the familiar faces, the new connections and the shared joy that comes from being among like–minded creatives.
This year's theme was KEEP IT REAL—how does that align with the way you work?
It resonated deeply with my design philosophy, which has guided my work since the founding of the studio 18 years ago. Many of my designs are envisioned during my annual week-long darkness meditation retreat. In the deep stillness of those sessions, I often receive vivid visions—shapes and forms reminiscent of planetary orbits or celestial movements. I translate those visions into reality through hand–sculpting, initially in clay. Each piece is handmade, moulded, cast and finished through human touch, preserving the tactile essence of the original form. This process is profoundly real and grounded—the designs are born from an inner vision and made tangible through the work of my hands.
In a world that's under a lot of pressure, how do you practice connection, resilience and hope?
I maintain a daily meditation practice, which is essential for building resilience and cultivating hope. In meditation, I experience love, peace, joy, clarity and inspiration. My current annual practice is an advanced weeklong darkness meditation retreat—an immersive solo experience in total silence and darkness. This allows me to withdraw from external stimulation and connect deeply with my inner world. These meditative experiences influence much of my work. They help me disconnect from the noise of everyday life and tap into what brings me joy and purpose. The creations that emerge are a way to share this sense of connection and love with others. Design plays a powerful role in this. For example, in December 2024, I created the Meditation Orb—an immersive installation focused on The Art of Cultivating the Mind. It featured solfeggio frequency–infused meditation music and vibration technology, creating a transformative sensory experience. Through design, we can invite others into a space of presence, healing and connection—offering them a moment to experience something beyond the ordinary.
At 3daysofdesign, our commitment extends beyond showcasing the latest trends in interior design and furniture. We strive to facilitate meaningful discussions, debate, and actively contribute to pushing forward a more sustainable approach within the realm of interior design and furniture business. Join us in our mission to inspire positive change and promote a greener, more responsible future for the industry.