Five objects with Russian For Fish

The items we surround ourselves with us often reveal things about who we are, our interests and foibles, even our sense of humour. In a creative studio, the most innocuous of objects can offer clues as to the ideas and inspirations that bubble away below the surface, informing the work

One of the things we’ve missed most since lockdown is the opportunity to visit our clients’ studios and nose around in their stuff – so we asked Pereen d’Avoine of East London architects Russian For Fish to bring her stuff to us. These are the five things she chose…

Viktor & Rolf's 2010 spring collection

This magazine cut-out has been taped either on my computer or next to my desk since 2010. I've always had an interest in how fashion design plays with materials unexpectedly and uses illusion to create space and shape. It is something we also aim to bring into our practice.

Cork cladding sample

Our studio is filled with material samples and mock-ups. We are always looking out for recycled or natural materials that have a positive impact environmentally.  This cork cladding sample sits at the end of our table. We’re yet to use it, but we love that it is fully recyclable and marries thermal insulation, water resistance, tactility and aesthetic appeal into one handy bundle!

Mini rock collection

The house was a gift; the larger one comes from just outside the Al-Hijr World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia. My co-director Nilesh and I travelled here in October 2019 for a site visit as part of an invited competition. It’s one of the most amazing places I've visited. The landscape here has oscillated between seabed and desert so the rock formations are a mix of sandstone and basalt. These particular ones are sandstone, marked with iron deposits that almost look purposeful.

Pendant profile, Hand & Eye Studio

This was a gift for my 30th from Tom Housden of Hand & Eye Studio. It’s one of his first pendant profiles. He originally made them in terracotta, then released a glazed version – this grey one which I totally fell in love with. Tom sourced the bright pink cord especially for me. Russian For Fish moved into our first studio in Bethnal Green in 2010 and after a decade we are now relocating to Limehouse. To celebrate we have just bought ourselves a Studio O beam light from Hand & Eye, which means this pendant has come home with me!

Ceramic ship, Laura Carlin

My friend Laura is a super talented illustrator and ceramicist, who always instils her pieces with such humour. This reminds us of a cityscape, and we love the 2D dog.

If you're interested in learning more about Russian For Fish, you can check out previous press releases on our client page, or visit their website and Instagram.