EXPLORING THE THINKING BEHIND TIRA COLLECTION

A conversation with designer Per Waern Jensen

Per Waern Jensen is a furniture designer and interior architect who grew up in his parents’ furniture store in Motala, Sweden. Early exposure to the world of furniture shaped his interest in design and later led him to study furniture design in Copenhagen. There, he was taught by lecturers who themselves had been students of Poul Kjærholm, an experience he describes as both inspiring and formative.

Over the years, Per has worked across a wide range of projects, including hotels, restaurants, retail environments, and furniture design. Today, his focus is increasingly on furniture as a standalone discipline, where ideas, materials, and longevity are central.

Nature as a starting point
The Tira collection is rooted in a clear natural reference:
“Tira is inspired by nature, with a form based on the idea of a bird’s nest supported by a network of branches. I wanted to create a design that feels both organic and durable, while maintaining a calm and inviting expression.”

The result is a design language that balances structure and softness — expressive, yet restrained.

A shared Nordic mindset
Per’s collaboration with Skargaarden grew from a shared appreciation of Nordic clarity and material honesty.
“Skargaarden represents a distinct Nordic expression, with genuine materials and high quality, combined with an innovative and forward-looking attitude. Our collaboration has been very inspiring.”

For him, the connection lies not only in aesthetics, but in values: durability, simplicity, and a quiet confidence in form.

Designing beyond trends
When it comes to longevity, Per’s approach is grounded in clarity of intention rather than trends.
“For me, it’s about the expression being rooted in a clear idea and intention, rather than what is fashionable.”

This philosophy runs through his work, where each detail is considered part of a larger whole, and nothing is left without purpose.

Outdoor spaces as living spaces
Per believes outdoor environments should be treated with the same care as interior spaces.
“I think the terrace should be treated as a room in the home. It’s about creating more welcoming environments as a natural extension of the indoor space.”

He describes outdoor furniture as something that should support everyday life rather than dominate it — adaptable enough for quiet moments alone as well as larger gatherings with friends.

A quiet presence
At the core of Tira is a desire to create something understated yet expressive.
“I hope Tira conveys a sense of calm and clarity. Restrained, yet expressive.”

The intention is not to demand attention, but to form a quiet framework for presence and interaction.

Looking ahead
Alongside Tira, Per is currently preparing a new chair design in collaboration with Skargaarden, set to launch during 3daysofdesign in Copenhagen. His ambition moving forward is to continue developing complete furniture families, collections that feel connected, coherent, and long-lasting.

“I would like to continue designing an entire furniture series, where different pieces evolve within the same family and belong together as a whole. It is both challenging and rewarding.”

 

About Per Waern Jensen

Per Waern Jensen is a Swedish designer celebrated for his dedication to craftsmanship and detail. After earning a Master’s degree in furniture design from the Royal Danish Academy in 2006, Per honed his skills in retail and interior design for over fifteen years before establishing his own studio in 2022.

His work reflects a deep connection to Scandinavian design principles, emphasizing minimalism, functionality and a respect for the nature.

The Tira collection is a testament to Per’s commitment to creating design pieces that are as enduring as they are beautiful.


Read more at: www.waernjensen.com