As the saying goes, it takes a lot of history to create even a small tradition. It has been more than a century since great-grandfather Gano Nikšić learned a groundbreaking wood carving technique in Austria-Hungary and founded the family tradition that now spans four generations. In 1919, Gano's sons opened the family workshop in Konjic, and one hundred and five years later, Zanat opened its first store in the historic centre of Bosnia's capital, Sarajevo.
The location that Zanat carefully selected for the showroom is a well-known address in Sarajevo: the National Gallery. The magnificent building housing the gallery was built around 1912 as a royal department store owned by Ješua and Mojca Salom. It is believed to be the work of architect Josip Vancaš, who gifted Sarajevo with some of its most significant and beautiful buildings from the Austro-Hungarian period.
Zanat occupies the ground floor, which is connected to the gallery space. The space will not only showcase the latest collections, special and rare originals, and samples, but it will also become a cultural hub in the Balkan city. Lectures, presentations, workshops, and other cultural events are planned to promote excellence in design, architecture, art, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Thus, Zanat is not just a tenant in the National Gallery (where Bosnia's most valuable artworks are kept), but also a partner in cultural education and the promotion of fine and applied arts.
The design of the space was handled by Studioilse, the renowned London studio founded by Ilse Crawford. The interior design was developed by No_Lab, an architecture firm based in Sarajevo, led by Emir Salkic, who regularly designs Zanat's exhibitions and trade fair stands. Jasna Mujkic from the Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo is responsible for the styling. Studioilse summarizes the project's goals as follows: 'Our shared task was to create a transformative space that captures the essence of Zanat. A space that connects with the ethos of Zanat, a brand that embodies more than just its products. The Home of Zanat will become a centre where people can experience the brand's rich heritage and engage with its craftsmanship, design, and philosophy.'
Through workshops, storytelling, and a multifunctional layout, the premises will bring the brand to life and establish a deeper connection with the audience. It will also serve as a dynamic extension of the National Gallery, adding vibrancy and relevance to the institution.
Architect Emir Salkic stated that his goal was to 'restore the beautiful architecture of the space, which had been lost over the years due to repurposing, while simultaneously creating a warm and contemporary interior that reflects the soul of Zanat and allows it to fulfil its far-reaching mission.'
'We are very aware of where we come from and how long it has taken to get here. We look to the future, not only for Zanat but also for the great and intricate craft that we have perfected. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating a century of our craftsmanship, the wonderful family of world-renowned Zanat designers, and a new address on the cultural map of Sarajevo and the region,' say Orhan and Adem Niksic, co-owners and directors of Zanat.
More information:
Zanat
[email protected]
www.zanat.org