Story-led tableware for refined living

I’m Nina, an artist, theatre designer and tableware designer based in Altrincham, Cheshire. I founded Nina D in 2020 as a way of bringing together the two worlds that have shaped my life: visual storytelling and the Scandinavian tradition of gathering around the table.

Growing up in Sweden, family life always centred around shared meals. My parents believed that setting the table was as important as preparing the food itself. Candles were lit, linen napkins carefully folded, beautiful placemats laid, and even everyday dinners were treated with quiet intention. Summers spent with my grandparents on the island of Gotland brought long veranda tables, produce gathered from the garden, smoked salmon from my grandfather’s smokehouses, and recipes blending Swedish, Finnish and Russian family traditions. Those moments taught me that a beautifully prepared table is never simply about objects – it is about generosity, storytelling and bringing people together.

That philosophy remains at the heart of everything I create today.

My creative journey began with a degree in Theatre Design at Wimbledon School of Art in London, where I learned to translate stories into visual worlds through set and costume design. Following university, I built a career in luxury retail and experiential design with brands including Burberry, Asprey and De Beers, later working within international luxury environments and events, including the Cannes Croisette Cup Superyacht Trophy led by Lionel Péan. These experiences deepened my understanding of atmosphere, craftsmanship and how thoughtful design shapes the way people experience a space.

In 2019, my creative practice naturally evolved towards tableware. Rather than designing for the stage, I realised I was creating for another kind of stage — the dining table. The table is where we celebrate, gather, reconnect and create memories, and every Nina D collection begins with that belief.

Each design starts with a story. Inspired by a person, place or treasured memory from Sweden, I begin every collection as an original hand-painted watercolour illustration. Layers of pigment are carefully built by hand to create depth, movement and texture, preserving the character and authenticity of the original artwork without digital manipulation. This artistic process remains central to Nina D and continues through production by collaborating with skilled manufacturers in Britain and Europe who share my commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability and exceptional quality.

What began as a small collection of placemats and coasters has grown into a carefully curated range of tableware, Swedish birch wood trays, table linen and home accessories. Each piece is designed to sit effortlessly within beautifully considered interiors, from private homes and independent retailers to luxury hospitality, interior design and yacht projects.

Alongside my own collections, I have a passion for creating bespoke designs that tell someone else’s story. My background in theatre design taught me to visualise a narrative and translate it into a meaningful visual experience. Today, I bring that same approach to collaborating with clients, interior designers and hospitality projects, creating tableware that reflects a unique identity while becoming part of beautifully curated spaces.

Whether for an everyday breakfast, a quiet family supper or an elegant celebration, I believe the table remains one of the few places where people truly pause, connect and share stories. In an increasingly fast-paced world, these rituals feel more valuable than ever. Through Nina D, I hope to create pieces that encourage those moments while bringing warmth, beauty and a sense of Scandinavian calm into the home.

I feel incredibly grateful for every customer, retailer, interior designer and collaborator who has become part of the Nina D story. Your support allows these personal memories and traditions to continue travelling from my sketchbook to tables around the world.

Thank you for being part of the journey.

With gratitude,

Nina