Homeware

My inspiration behind our Gotland Tableware Collection

Gotland, Sweden’s largest island in the Baltic Sea, holds a special place in my heart as the cherished home of my grandparents and the setting for countless idyllic childhood holidays. Among the island’s many remarkable features are the distinctive limestone formations, locally known as “Rauks,” which have become emblematic of its landscape. These towering stacks, shaped over time by the relentless forces of wind and sea, exhibit an array of striking, often whimsical forms—each one earning its own name. My watercolour illustration captures one such formation, the Kaffepannan, or “Coffee Pot,” bringing to life its unique structure while celebrating the island’s exquisite natural hues and textures, which have long been admired by visitors and locals alike.

Nina D Scandi inspired homeware. Artist and designer originally from Sweden. Hand painted designs for tableware and gifts, inspired by Nina's Swedish upbringing and family traditions. Luxury placemats, Swedish birch wood trays, drinks coasters, cork-backed table mats, handmade table linen, Award winning Artist and Designer Nina Daniels Nina D is an artist and designer based in Cheshire. Each design is inspired by Nina's Swedish upbringing and family traditions. Award winning Artist and Designer Nina Daniels, producing luxury tableware, placemats, coasters, trays, linen

In 2019, I embarked on a creative journey designing tableware, drawing inspiration from my background in Theatre Design and a diploma in Illustration. Each piece is deeply rooted in a place or person from my homeland of Sweden, reflecting my personal connection through the use of vibrant colours, textures, and intricate patterns that often evoke both memories and emotions.

Throughout my design studies, I made a conscious decision to create all of my artwork by hand, using watercolour on carefully chosen paper, and I have never altered my pieces digitally. This commitment to traditional craftsmanship has allowed me to explore my passion for creating depth through layering, achieving a striking two-dimensional effect. Equally important to me is the sourcing of high-quality manufacturers who can preserve the handmade details inherent in my work. I take great pride in knowing that the materials and processes I use are sustainable, ensuring both the artistry and the environment are respected.

Gotland is Sweden’s largest island in the Baltic Sea where my grandparents lived and I spent many blissful childhood holidays. The distinctive rock formations, known locally as ‘Rauks’ are very recognisable to the island and one of the main attractions. The limestone stacks are weathered by the sea and the wind, sculptured into unusual shapes, leading to some being named. My illustration in watercolour represents the rock called Kaffepannan ‘Coffee Pot’ and highlights the beautiful natural colours and textured that are so appreciated.

A few months after launching my business, I came to a profound realization: my parents were the true driving force behind NINA D. Having spent twenty-five years in England, I found that the simple act of setting a table—whether for celebrations or daily meals—became a deeply comforting ritual. This practice, so reminiscent of my own childhood and family traditions, inspired one of my designs, created in honor of my mother, to celebrate the spirit of joyous occasions.

In a world increasingly dominated by technology, the importance of sharing mealtimes around a table has never felt more significant. It serves not only as a time for meaningful connection but also as a way to foster good communication and enhance mental well-being. As we navigate our busy, tech-driven lives, the tradition of gathering together over a meal remains a cornerstone of both family life and personal balance.

Nina D Scandi inspired homeware. Artist and designer originally from Sweden. Hand painted designs for tableware and gifts, inspired by Nina's Swedish upbringing and family traditions. Placemats, table mats, round placemats, table linen, linen napkins, serving trays, Swedish drinks trays, coasters, jigsaw, gift cards, candles, napkin rings. Gotland is Sweden’s largest island in the Baltic Sea where my grandparents lived and I spent many blissful childhood holidays. The distinctive rock formations, known locally as ‘Rauks’ are very recognisable to the island and one of the main attractions. The limestone stacks are weathered by the sea and the wind, sculptured into unusual shapes, leading to some being named. My illustration in watercolour represents the rock called Kaffepannan ‘Coffee Pot’ and highlights the beautiful natural colours and textured that are so appreciated. Gotland is Sweden’s largest island in the Baltic Sea where my grandparents lived and I spent many blissful childhood holidays. The distinctive rock formations, known locally as ‘Rauks’ are very recognisable to the island and one of the main attractions. The limestone stacks are weathered by the sea and the wind, sculptured into unusual shapes, leading to some being named. My illustration in watercolour represents the rock called Kaffepannan ‘Coffee Pot’ and highlights the beautiful natural colours and textured that are so appreciated.

Last year, Meraki Woodcraft and myself joined forces to showcase our exquisite tableware and dining furniture, offering a unique opportunity to experience the exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Seen here is our Gotland range with cork-backed placemats, beautifully set on David’s dining table seating eight people.

Nina D creates luxurious tableware, featuring hand-illustrated designs deeply rooted in her Swedish family traditions, while Meraki specializes in handcrafted artisan dining furniture, including tables, benches, console tables, shelving, and sideboards, all made with care in their Warrington workshop and Design Studio.

We are both passionate small-scale makers who take pride in working closely with our customers, helping them to not only design elegant dining spaces using traditional techniques and natural materials, but also to craft lasting memories around the table.