Contemporary Design Forged in Tradition – Olas Design Studio

Olas is an emerging Australian design studio combining the historical significance of traditional craftsmanship with the beauty of minimalist design.

Olas was founded by Adrian Olasau with the distinct aim of merging the time-honoured traditions of Australian timber craftmanship with modern design principles through the creation of timeless pieces of contemporary furniture. “We aim to create unique pieces that celebrate the strength and beauty of timber as a material,” explains Adrian. “Ultimately, we want to create highly functional products that are designed for daily use.”

Adrian was traditionally trained in the art of timber carpentry, with his studio’s minimalist approach to design drawing inspiration from the key influences of the midcentury Danish and Japanese furniture design movements. Adrian utilises an in-depth understanding of natural materials to create pieces that are eternal in style and quality. “I adore working with timber as a material,” states Adrian. “I don’t want to bombard the user with detailing so I favour a subtle approach to design that aims to let the timber sing, and allows its natural beauty to shine through.”

The Olas portfolio of products currently consists of a coffee table, stool, arm chair, light pendant and a uniquely beautiful bike rack. Each piece was a labour of love for Adrian and his team, featuring high levels of sophistication, style and functionality. “All our products are locally made,” explains Adrian. “We use traditional manufacturing techniques to control the quality and ensure that the piece remains timeless, whilst remain a constant presence for this generation and the next.”

Olas uses subtle human-design to create sustainable furniture pieces that are key elements in a steady war being waged against the culture of fast trends and disposability in the furniture industry. Adrian and his team are committed to supporting the locally-made Australian furniture industry. “The majority of our timbers are sourced in Australia and from the non-profit American agency FSC Certified” explains Adrian proudly. “We are pleased to use a traditionalist miller as part of our manufacturing process and love working with natural Australian wood.”

With an already impressive portfolio of furniture products in their collection, and several exciting collaborations with industry creatives on the horizon, the future is certainly bright for Adrian Olas and his design studio. In 2019 Olas furniture will be displayed for the first time at the DENFAIR exhibition, signifying a significant milestone in the history of Olas and the career of Adrian. “We are a young brand, so 2019 is all about building brand awareness and continuing our commitment to creation of beautiful furniture,” he explains. “I am very excited to display my work at DENFAIR and in the process continue the natural growth of Olas.”

Through a fundamentally responsible approach to furniture creation, Olas is maintaining the public’s appreciation for contemporary design, forged in tradition.