Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am the founder and creative director of Hering Berlin, a brand creating exceptional tableware, glassware, interior objects, and lighting. From my diverse varied training throughout Europe to the founding of my design studio in Berlin in 1992, my journey has been about blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. I see myself as a designer, craftswoman, entrepreneur, host - and also as a material fetishist.

Over the years, my brand Hering Berlin has evolved from a porcelain manufacturer to a global luxury firm. I collaborate with a team of master craftspeople to push the boundaries of materials such as porcelain, clay, glass, stainless steel, and cast iron, resulting in distinctive, enduring pieces. Our dedication to independence, expert craftsmanship, and creative exploration has made Hering Berlin a favourite among top restaurateurs and interior designers worldwide. Each creation aims to inspire creativity and foster memorable experiences of hospitality and camaraderie.

To me, true luxury means creating pieces that will become cherished heirlooms that embody a timeless quality that will transcend generations.



How did you establish Hering Berlin and why?
The table has always been at the centre of my family. It was where we ate and spent a lot of time together. My grandparents had a farm, which instilled in me a great appreciation for the produce that ended up on the table. I wanted to give the food an appropriate stage and express an appreciation for the precious time spent together by designing the table.

My interest arose from this moment, and over the next few years, I got to grips with the material. I started an apprenticeship as a potter at the age of 16, travelled as a journeywoman and passed my master's examination. I then realised that I wanted to expand my knowledge by studying design. The exploration of design and material is always challenging and inspiring for me: how can I process the material in such a way that it fits in with my design intentions? How can I emphasise the beauty of the material through my design?

In 1992, as a master potter and designer, I set up my own business. I knew from the start that I didn't want to sell my products at a regional crafts market. So I went to international fairs in New York, Tokyo and Frankfurt. My aim was to see what the world's opinion was of my work.



What defines the style of Hering Berlin?
Hering Berlin's style is defined by a blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design, including distinctive shapes, tactile finesse and enduring quality in all its designs. Characterised by a commitment to using traditional materials and craft techniques, we continually reinterpret material and form to create modern, elegant pieces.



What is your design process when creating new pieces?
Our manufacturing processes are more sophisticated than traditional manufacturers and less focused on automation. Instead, we are structured more like a studio. Depending on the design, pieces go through several steps outside the linear process. In glass making, for example, we work with different hot and cold shops across Europe, sometimes moving pieces between them to allow the best craftsmen to add their mastery to the piece.

I never design solely based on detailed briefings. Instead, function and form can be intuitively presented as correct and convincing after extensive research. In my opinion, the agile methodology, which only approaches consensus, leads to mediocre results.

Teamwork is particularly important to me. Although I contribute ideas, I don't see myself as the sole creator of our objects. My team and I develop the design together, while a master craftsman makes it by hand.