8 modern latin american product design talents

as a region with multiple nation-states, rich in cultural history and tradition, latin american designers have strived to evolve from the colonial aesthetic and european-influenced practice into a unique, sleek, and eccentric design that celebrates their own inspiration. ranging from the pre-columbian era, the mayan period, the 1960s to the 1990s, these eight young and inspiring designers redefine function and comfort through a series of modern furniture in latin america.

the living stone by agnes studio — guatemala

founded by two designers who have spent two years researching pre-columbian craftsmanship, young designers from guatemala city, estefania de ros, and gustavo quintana introduce a series of furniture inspired by the otherly world that has emerged long ago during the mayan culture and incorporate it into the modern western accent.

according to the team, one of their limited edition series is altar console volcanic rock & mable which came from an exploration of the evolution of form and materials in pre-columbian meso-american ceremonial objects. from the humble corn millstones to sacrificial altars who share similar traits, both physical and metaphysical as well as the material where lava stone was often used, the connection between ceremonial and daily rituals. led us to…