What is your ideal office?
I am super fortunate to have two wonderful office spaces. At the COS head office I have a space with huge windows overlooking the London skyline. It is simple, clean and quiet, which is what I love. At home I have a small studio in my garden which is an inspiring space where I can get away.
If you had a uniform, what would it be?
I think it depends on the time of year, but I guess I am most often found in a navy round-neck sweater, a pair of jeans and a white sneaker. I do truthfully wear a lot of COS, and one thing I love about the collection is the way most pieces can be dressed up or down. I like to be able to grab a clutch and put on a heel without too much fuss in the evening.
Sunlight or moonlight?
Sunlight because it gives me energy.
Where on earth have you felt most inspired?
Probably in London. It is such a diverse creative hub and has so many fantastic galleries, museums, art schools and markets. It is a privilege to live in the city.
Who is an unexpected source of inspiration for you?
I love Nick Cave, his style and his music.
What uncommon material would you like to use in a future collection?
Mycelium leather, it is a new leather grown into root like fibers.
What is the last living thing you fell in love with?
We recently worked on a wonderful project with the British choreographer Wayne McGregor. He created a beautiful presentation showcasing our men’s collection in Florence. It was such magical work—I think I really fell in love with dance and movement!
If you could see the world in only two colors, what would they be?
Blue and green—I am always drawn to colors in nature and love the colors I see when visiting family in rural Sweden.
When is the last time a piece of art affected you emotionally?
I loved visiting Dia:Beacon. There is so much work within that institution that affects you. I was particularly mesmerized by the work of three artists that were being exhibited there: Dorothea Rockburne, Mary Corse and Anne Truitt. The pieces are all so different and yet so moving—to see that generation of female artists receive the attention and respect they deserve is fantastic.
What is the most beautiful word in the Swedish language?
Vatten [water]. It’s fundamental every day.
What creative figure would you most like to collaborate with?
We are fortunate to have collaborated with so many of our key inspiring artists, creatives and organizations; the Judd Foundation and the Dia Art Foundation, to name a few, and the Serpentine Galleries in London have been a long-term partner. Working with the Guggenheim on the Agnes Martin retrospective was a wonderful moment—the Agnes Martin Foundation kindly allowed us to create a collection inspired by her work, which was fantastic for us. I think the one artist that we all love and admire so greatly is James Turrell, his work really is breathtaking and so moving in its scale and simplicity.
What’s the magic word?
“Thank you.” Always be grateful for those around you.
What is one of your favorite patterns at the moment?
I consistently find inspiration in abstract art, and love the patterns you see within it.
What is the most useful advice you have ever received?
Let loose, the best new ideas come from mistakes!
