Philia
Magazine
Nifemi Marcus-Bello
Nifemi Marcus-Bello is a Nigerian designer whose work examines the social, economic, and cultural systems embedded within objects and their production. Based in Lagos, he approaches design as a form of inquiry, drawing from local manufacturing networks, material histories, and everyday urban realities to create furniture, installations, and objects that spark dialogue about value, labor, and identity. Moving fluidly between art and design, his practice reflects a deep engagement with context, resourcefulness, and the narratives that shape contemporary life. His work has been exhibited internationally and acquired by major institutions including MoMA, the Brooklyn Museum, LACMA, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Design Museum London.
Lost Profile Studio
Lost Profile Studio is a Melbourne-based design practice founded by Oliver Wilcox in 2017. Working across collectible furniture, lighting, hardware, and curated vintage pieces, the studio explores the dialogue between historical references and contemporary design. Its name, inspired by the artistic concept of the profil perdu (“lost profile”), reflects a fascination with suggestion, restraint, and the enduring character of objects.
Guided by Wilcox’s multidisciplinary background in art, design, and curation, Lost Profile creates refined collections influenced by Art Deco elegance, industrial utility, and timeless craftsmanship. Through a thoughtful balance of sculptural form, tactile materials, and understated detailing, the studio develops pieces that celebrate heritage, material honesty, and the quiet poetry of everyday living.
Marea Hildebrand Picks From Philia Collection
Marea Hildebrand (b. 1989) is a Zurich-based ceramic artist whose practice explores the quiet dialogue between material, process, and form. Trained in Fine Arts and Transdisciplinary Studies at the Zurich University of the Arts, she creates hand-built ceramic vessels using the traditional coil technique, developing monumental works distinguished by richly layered surfaces achieved through multiple firings, painting, and rhythmic etching. Embracing the beauty of imperfection and transience, her work draws inspiration from Japanese and Korean aesthetics, Abstract Art, and the philosophy of wabi-sabi, creating contemplative pieces that evoke stillness, presence, and a deep connection to natural materials.
KASANAI
KASANAI is a Belgian design studio founded by Virginie Steeland in 2021. Working across collectible furniture and objects, the studio explores refined materiality through a minimalist design language that values permanence over trends. Inspired by the belief that thoughtful interiors contribute to a more mindful way of living, KASANAI creates sculptural pieces that balance architectural presence with quiet elegance, transforming materials such as hand-finished microcement and stainless steel into timeless forms.
Guided by craftsmanship, restraint, and an enduring appreciation for natural textures, the studio develops collections that celebrate simplicity, durability, and tactile beauty. Each piece is conceived as a lasting investment, encouraging a slower, more intentional relationship with design while enriching everyday spaces through understated sophistication.
Three One Four Studio Picks From Philia Collection
Three One Four Studio is a British design studio founded by Alexander Webb in collaboration with manufacturing specialist Neil Walker. Working at the intersection of art, design, and advanced fabrication, the studio creates collectible furniture and sculptural objects that reinterpret classical influences through contemporary materials and production techniques.
With a strong focus on material experimentation and sustainability, Three One Four Studio transforms industrial by-products into refined, collectible works. Combining handcrafted processes with digital technologies, the studio develops pieces that challenge conventional ideas of form, function, and craftsmanship.
