Nikolai Lind has been many things in his lifetime. First, he studied contemporary literature and journalism at Aarhus University, but a life of books didn’t really suit him, and so he began quest to fulfill his dreams. Since then, he has been the brand manager of two cafes in Denmark, a chef, worked full time as a model and now a designer. LIND DNA is the culmination of his dreams; design, marketing, production and the creation of products which reflect his true passions.
Nikolai you are a model, a well-known model in Denmark. How long have you been modeling?
I have been modeling for nearly two and a half years now, and traveling and living around the world for one and a half – meeting people and creating a network in the business. Now I have slowed the modeling a bit down because of LIND DNA, but I still occasionally do some work.
Who is you favorite fashion designer?
Tom Ford. The elegance and unique style of a true gentleman, combined with a touch of high fashion.
What do you like to wear on a normal day?
Normally I wear mostly black, layer on layer. An oversizet-shirt, pull over and tight jeans. But I also have a weak spot for more colourful second hand shirts. I have a friend who is a designer, so I often wear his brand.
You are also involved in design. Tell us a few things about that. What is your focus?
The entire mindset behind LIND DNA is deeply rooted in Danish design thinking. LIND DNA’s environmentally responsible approach, and the perfect marriage between exquisite quality and beautiful aesthetic expression, make LIND DNA a textbook example of Danish design.
Was there a particular project that acted as a launch pad / turning point for lind design?
No, not just a single project, but the idea behind LIND DNA is based on sustainability and design. Sustainability is at the core of LIND DNA’s operations. Recycled materials are used for major parts of the designs, such as leather coming from used car seats or rubber from soles. These materials are then processed to give them the look and feel expected of high quality products like the ones designed by LIND DNA.
Can you give us a little insight into your inner workings at the moment?
Right at this moment I have turned my focus towards setting up the production necessary to manage the success we are experiencing with LIND DNA. Also, I have been following some leads from our PR strategy which have resulted in two new image catalogs and new packaging for our products.
What does a typical day in the life of Nikolas Lind involve?
I can’t even figure that out myself sometimes! There is no normal day in my life at the moment. There are always new projects and new products. I just keep moving forward!
Which contemporary creatives are you loving at the moment?
Over the last few weeks music has been my greatest inspiration – Tyler the Creator, Earl Sweatshirt and Frank Ocean. Three inspiring individuals with a unique sense of creativity.
What would be your dream creative project?
I have a dream that one day I’ll be working with a friend of mine to create films, music and clothes – just pursuing our dreams and visions. He has already started, so maybe someday.
And what are you looking forward to?
I am looking forward to getting LIND DNA onto the international design scene. Maybe win a Red Dot award, or something like that. I think we have the potential.
Interview: Nelly Skoufatoglou
