Fumaci's ceramic designs transform a candle into a timeless interior object. In addition, the Belgian design brand has chosen 100% natural wax and cotton wicks since the beginning. But founder & designer Pauline De Graeve is now making the production process even more sustainable. Thanks to the collaboration with custom-made company Mirto in Drongen, the candles are moulded by people distanced from the labour market. These craftsmen are proud to contribute to the launch of the new indoor collections Sole and Onda. Fumaci combines design, sustainability and social responsibility in one unique candle with which to gather the warmest moments.
Currently, Fumaci has no Dutch retail outlets yet, but in January the brand will participate in Maison&Objet in Paris. This is a big step in their internationalisation strategy, where the brand will focus on the European market. So the expectation and objective is also to maximally target Dutch outlets. In addition, Fumaci delivers online orders in the Netherlands.
Founder and designer Pauline De Graeve. © Charlotte Lauwers Photography.
Combining ceramics and candles
"I have always been someone who has a lot of candles at home, but find it a shame that most of them are in a plain glass holder that people throw in the bottle bank when the candle has burned out," says founder & designer Pauline De Graeve. "My passion for ceramics gave me the idea to combine this with candles. Fumaci therefore gives me enormous satisfaction, as my designs get a second life as interior objects or even pen holders."
With respect for people and planet
The sustainable nature as a 'reusable' design is reinforced by a conscious choice of materials. The use of 100% natural rapeseed wax and cotton wicks is environmentally friendly but also ensures a clean, sustainable burning experience. Thanks to these natural materials, no harmful substances are released. While burning, you are even treated to essential scents from Grasse. They create a sensory experience and blend seamlessly with the ambience and elegance of the design.
But sustainability goes beyond an eco-friendly approach at Fumaci. By collaborating with bespoke company Mirto, the Sint-Martens-Latem-based Belgian design brand contributes to local employment and social inclusion. 'Collecting Warm Memories' is clearly more than a standard baseline for Fumaci.
"Our objective is not only to create cosy moments with aesthetically pleasing products, but we are also keen to make a difference in co-delivery," says Pauline De Graeve. "Mirto's craftsmanship and passion for customisation fit seamlessly with our values. What particularly touches me personally is the enthusiasm and pride of the customisers. They already knew our products from the shops, which makes their commitment and our cooperation all the stronger. This synergy takes our new collections to the next level "
100% handmade
Every product detail is handmade: from the creation of the pots to the moulding of the candles. Designer Pauline creates each prototype on her own turntable to shape the designs entirely to her own vision. The handmade designs are then manufactured in the same authentic way in specialised Portuguese ceramics workshops.
"Portugal is a country known for its craftsmanship in ceramics. We work with family businesses there where the craft is passed on from generation to generation. As a result, there is a close-knit, informal atmosphere that contributes to the positive work culture. The ceramic workshops not only meet our high quality standards but also share our ambitious vision for the future so that we can grow together and strengthen each other," De Graeve said.
More information:
Fumaci
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www.fumaci.be