Close

An Artisanal Approach by Worn Studio

Natalia Ortega of Worn Studio discusses her process of working with artisans and her plans to work with Emirati materials

Based in Spain, Natalia Ortega, the founder of Worn Studio is a creator of work that includes objects, furniture and lighting, utilising media such as ceramic, wood, stone, metal, leather and blown glass. Her approach is deeply rooted in the traditions of the past, working closely with artisans from small workshops to bring a sense of purpose and intention to every piece she creates. Her BOWS collection is eye-catching, playful and evokes a sense of romanticism. Ortega’s journey began with a profound respect for the traditional methods of making. “I reclaim the essence of making used in traditional craft from our past,” she explains. By collaborating with artisans in small towns, Ortega emphasises the importance of slowness, intention and respect for natural resources. This methodology allows her to create contemporary objects that not only highlight human presence but also bring awareness to the non-living elements that surround us. Made in the land of Almodovar, her creations are testament to the enduring beauty of handcrafted art.

Worn Studio, under Ortega’s visionary leadership, is more than just a furniture and product studio – it is a confluence of extensive international experience and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. Recently, Natalia was tasked by Loewe to create ceramic pieces inspired by a Loewe leather bag for Ramadan. A luscious, glazed ceramic with leather knot and an embroidery linen bag were placed inside a carved wooden box with the help of four Spanish artisans. Ortega now has ambitious plans for Worn Studio.

She expresses a keen interest in collaborating with local artisans in the UAE. “Fibres are materials that I really love and enjoy because they are found in all countries but at the same time, they’re totally different from each other in their shape and the way they are braided,” she explains. Through spending time in the workshops of locals, learning their techniques and co-designing products, she believes this collaboration has the potential to yield unique and innovative designs. “I believe that the success of any design lies in this mix of designer and artisan,” she adds.

Worn Studio

Her work will soon be on display at two major design events: Mexico Design Week and Downtown Design Dubai. At these events, she will showcase pieces from the BOWS collection, including candle holders, vases, cutlery and furniture. For Ortega, bold design means daring to play with concepts, sizes and materials. It is about pushing boundaries and creating pieces that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful.

Worn Studio

Read more about craftsmanship here.

The Latest

Kohler Celebrated Transformative Designs at INDEX Saudi Arabia 2025

Transformative design experiences were highlighted through curated collections from Kohler, KALLISTA, and Kohler x Studio McGee along with panel discussions on wellness, design, and sustainability.

Serenity and Soul

Blending Aman’s signature serenity with the cultural soul of Saudi Arabia, Amansamar emerges as a bold new destination for design-led living and hospitality

Quiet Luxury

The Bernhardt brand brings understated elegance and enduring craftsmanship through Interiors in the UAE

Transform Your Living Space

Renowned designer Antonio Citterio introduces a new paradigm in contemporary seating through the Loungescape sofa

Inside Hobb

We speak with the founder of Hobb, Haifa Malhas, about building a bookstore and a community centred around love for design

Revealed: The venue and date for the identity Design Awards 2025

Save the date for the much awaited gala night.

Crate & Barrel x Jake Arnold The Hartford 90 Wood Outdoor Sofa by Jake Arnold

Conscious design, textural sophistication, and seasonal comfort: What Crate & Barrel and CB2 bring to the GCC with New Stores and Collection

With fresh openings in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, Crate & Barrel and CB2 unveil Fall/Winter collections that blends tactile design, sustainability, and exclusive collaborations, bringing global style closer to regional homes.

Surface Appeal

Global surfaces leader Cosentino launches four new quartzite options in the Sensa range

Dubai Design Week 2025

Dubai Design Week 2025 reveals an exciting 11th edition programme

Taking place from 4-9 November 2025, Dubai Design Week this year centres around community.

Rooted in Stillness

Casa Tranquilo by DADO offers an immersive retreat into nature

Treetop Sanctuary

The Ritz-Carlton’s intimate treetop retreat offers a rare invitation to connect deeply with nature and culture

Desert Counterpoint

In Summerlin, Nevada, Faulkner Architects and Concept Lighting Lab have revealed a desert home that withstands extremities