Orinnoro: A Sustainable and Serene Glass Jar

Preserving Nature's Beauty in Recycled Glass

Inspired by the Orinniro gorge in central Finland, the Orinnoro jar mirrors the atmosphere of this natural formation through its tall shape and color combinations. The design philosophy behind this piece is to reflect the calm Northern aesthetics while questioning the relationship between the quality and purity of glass in modern design. The rough texture of the waste glass, with its impurities, is highlighted as a statement.

What sets the Orinnoro jar apart is not only its sustainable production process but also its unique color hues. Each jar is created using a modern interpretation of the classic Incalmo glass blowing technique, ensuring that every object has a one-of-a-kind play of color. The rhythm of the glass making process adds to the charm of these pieces, making them truly special.

The Orinnoro jar is studio made from recycled waste glass, shaped by hand and blown in a wooden mold. Standing at an impressive 65 cm tall, this jar is a statement piece that adds elegance to any space. The glass objects are carefully packed in eco-friendly recycled cardboard packages, further emphasizing the sustainable nature of this design.

More than just a decorative item, the Orinnoro jar is designed to create harmonious moments in everyday life. Opening the jar requires time and calmness, allowing for a serene experience when placing items such as flowers or food inside. These moments of tranquility are rare and valuable in our hectic world.

When light interacts with the recycled glass, the shadow cast by the jar comes alive, showcasing the dynamic nature of the material. Glass is never static; it reacts to the surrounding light and environment, adding another layer of beauty to this piece.

The Orinnoro project began in 2021 and was first exhibited at the Venice Glass Week 2021 at Bel Air Fine Art Gallery. It can also be seen at the Museum of Fine Arts Eemil in Lapinlahti. This collection aims to highlight the nature of recycled waste glass in an aesthetic way, showcasing voluminous yet light objects that balance playfulness, serenity, and freshness.

The Orinnoro jar overcame several design challenges to achieve its unique qualities. The challenge was to create voluminous objects that appear light while using color in a way that leaves room for the interior of the piece. Additionally, finding the perfect flow for the colors was crucial to maintain a fresh appearance.

Sini Majuri, the designer behind the Orinnoro jar, is known for her commitment to preserving endangered craftsmanship and respecting the environment. With this design, she has created a high-quality everyday object that holds the value of uniqueness, history, and provenance.

The Orinnoro jar is not only a visually stunning piece but also a testament to the possibilities of sustainable design. By repurposing waste glass and incorporating it into a functional and beautiful object, Sini Majuri has created a true work of art.

Image Credits: Sofie Jokinen, Helsinki, Finland; Sini Majuri, Helsinki, Finland

Intellectual Property Notice: Sini Majuri, Helsinki, Finland

Awards and Accolades: The Orinnoro jar was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.