Today on the blog, we feature Nikhil Kunnath, designer and founder of KOL,  a sustainable slow design studio in Thrissur; specialised in designing bamboo utilities and accents. Meet the maker, at the February 2020 edition of By Hand from the Heart Makers Market in Chennai.

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

A designer, engineer, craftsman. Striving to build a sustainable and green world around us.

How did you begin KOL?

The love for bamboo began with my graduation project at IIT Bombay to design a bamboo bike for children. KOL took birth when I decided to bring those prototype models to life, in order to make it available to the people.

What is the story behind your brand name?

‘Kol’ in Malayalam, simply means a piece of stick. The impact and diversity such a simple piece of stick (bamboo) can have is something which is we at KOL strive to bring about.

How has your business evolved over the years?   Your work space & the artisans you work with.

We are a small but growing business.  We have our studio based in the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur. With a team of two industrial designers and three skilled local carpenters.

What is currently on your work table?

Our product range extends to bicycle frames, furnitures, jewellery, installations, interior decor, lifestyle products and we are currently experimenting in all the possible directions where bamboo can be introduced.

What is your personal favorite pick from your brand right now? And why?

Right now, ‘Veyil Table Lamps’. With a rich mix of local materials , they make a sustainable statement piece of interior decor.

What are your displaying at the By Hand, From The Heart.

A wide variety of products ranging from earrings, pendants, bangles, bangle stands, necklaces, pens, books, quills, table lamps, eye wears/shades, hangers, bowties, low stools, stationery, incense stick holders, festive hangings etc.

Meet the Maker @
By Hand from the Heart: Makers Market – 29th Edit
7 – 8 February 2020, Friday – Saturday | 10 a.m – 9 p.m
Hanu Reddy Residences, No. 41/19, Poes Garden, Chennai 600086, India.

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