Natalia Criado

Bringing joy and, more importantly, jewels in the home is the goal of Natalia Criado, Colombian designer, whose innovative approach to jewellery and decorative objects has garnered international acclaim. Her work combines traditional Colombian craftsmanship with contemporary design elements, resulting in pieces that are both elegant and unique. Everything that comes out of Natalia’s studio has an experimental spirit, working with materials such as brass, glass, gemstones, and ceramic, the transformative beauty of these elements help her capture the magic of everyday objects. The hallmark of her creations is a sense of simplicity that conveys sophistication, characterised by clean lines and a playful approach to both materials and forms.

Semaine What’s important to you right now?

N.C Right now, what’s important to me is cultivating a peaceful environment where I can focus on understanding my priorities. I believe that clarity in what matters most to me allows me to pursue opportunities that align with me.

Semaine If you were an object what would you be?
N.C. I would be a vase, delicate & small.

Semaine Describe your taste in one word?
N.C. I would describe my work with: thorough.

Semaine Where would you like to be right now?
N.C. I would like to be in colombia, in nature with lots of palm trees and reading a book in a hamac.

Natalia’s collections encompass a variety of items, from jewellery to home decor, including tableware and decorative accessories. Her designs have been exhibited and appreciated across Colombia and internationally, demonstrating her ability to blend cultural influences into her work. Born and raised in Colombia and now based in Milan, she embodies a fusion of styles from both her native and adopted countries. This cultural cross-pollination is evident in the way she approaches design, focusing on the interplay between the exoticism of everyday life in Colombia and the understated elegance of Milan. The use of light plays a crucial role in her designs. She seamlessly integrates it into her pieces, allowing light to reflect and refract in a way that brings out the beauty of the materials she uses. Her use of metals and other elements that reflect or absorb light creates a dynamic interaction that adds depth and texture to her work. Through this thoughtful design approach, her pieces evoke the subtleties of natural light, which can transform an ordinary space into something more inviting and serene.

One of Natalia’s notable projects is "Joyas en Casa," which translates to "Jewels in the Home." This collection is designed to bring a sense of calm and happiness into everyday spaces. Each item in the collection takes about three hours to create, reflecting the precision and care she puts into her work. Her philosophy is rooted in the belief that small details can make a significant difference in our perception of life. Whether it's the cup from which we drink our morning coffee or the plates used for family gatherings, these seemingly mundane objects can add a touch of beauty to our daily routines.

Beyond her focus on design and craftsmanship, Natalia emphasises the importance of environmentalism, or as we like to say at Semaine, longevity objects. In a world increasingly dominated by mass production and disposable goods, she advocates for a return to traditional artisanal practices that prioritise sustainability. By collaborating with local artisans from her studio in Bogotá, she seeks to highlight the significance of craftsmanship and its impact on reducing waste and supporting local communities. This approach aligns with a growing movement toward sustainability in design, where the value of handmade, durable objects is gaining recognition.

Natalia’s commitment to environmentalism extends to her materials and production processes. By adding poetry and beauty in our everyday, we are encouraged to take better care of our belongings, to respect the process of how things are made, and thereby promote sustainable behaviours. Her approach serves as a reminder that the beauty of design can coexist with a commitment to sustainability, offering a path forward for designers seeking to make a positive impact on the world.