The fact that Gunnar Sören Petersen likes camping at music festivals does have an impact on his designs. For example, his “Snak Table” is a folding camping table with a plastic top and wooden legs that can be used not only for eating but also for playing ping-pong on. His little portable barbecue “Apollo”, which calls to mind a miniature pull-out rocket, is a handy companion for a life in the great outdoors. Petersen’s objects are suitable for inside or outside used and always cleverly constructed, as well as experimental through and through. This is evidenced not only by his wardrobe “Gren” which can be extended ad infinitum using round timber and plastic connectors, but also by his chair “Flexible Wood”. In the latter case by milling out wood and adding elastomers, Petersen has succeeded in making wood almost as flexible as coarse netting.
Gunnar Søren Petersen


Whowhatwherewhenhow?
Where would you like to live?
At some point I would like to live by the seaside. Having said that, this last summer I was able to fulfill one of my dreams – a little cabin in the woods close to a lake.
Your favorite character in the history of design?
Ray and Charles Eames. They were fortunate enough to work in all kinds of disciplines. That attitude of always wanting to try out new things is very inspiring.
Which qualities do you admire in a designer?
Surprising people repeatedly with consistency and honesty.
What do you enjoy doing most?
Experiencing new things with friends. This often provides me with the inspiration for new ideas. Then immersing myself in the subject is something that I really enjoy.
Your main personality trait?
If there is such a thing as “defining trait”… I originally come from the Rhineland and in line with that my friends would describe me as a happy guy – I would call myself an optimist, somebody who always looks for a solution.
Your biggest mistake?
The moment when a prototype is almost ready and at the last stage I ruin everything.
Your idea of happiness?
Independence – being in a position to do only the kind of things that I love.
What do you find really annoying?
Being dependent on other people.
Your favorite material?
Giving preference to one single material would be too limiting for me as a designer. Every material has incredible scope.
Your favorite flower?
What kind of music do you listen to when you work?
That depends on the activity involved. At the moment when I’m doing something practical I listen to a lot of German and American rap. If things are more theoretical I tend to need peace and quiet.
Which design achievement do you most detest?
Built-in obsolescence. In other words, in particular, when essential everyday products purposely have a limited lifespan with one eye on making a profit. For example, printers or smartphones.
Which talent would you like to have?
Being where you want to be when you want to be – like Marvel’s Nightcrawler.
Can you describe your present state of mind?
Hungry for more…
Your motto?
Hang on in there.