My Linnea Lund : Gesa Hansen
The Story of Gesa Hansen and The Hansen Family
Gesa Hansen was born into a family of cabinetmakers, a sacred heritage for this German-Danish woman who admirably followed in the footsteps of her elders by attending the prestigious Bauhaus University in Weimar, Germany. Later, she fell in love with France and its fine dining after tasting Iñaki Aizpitarte's chocolate fondant, a leading figure in Parisian bistronomy. Paris... And that was a good thing because at that time (in 2005), she interned at Jean Nouvel's Atelier H5, where she would work for five years. The experience was good, but the production was too "industrial" for her taste, as she has a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. But that was not a setback! She decided not only to "simply" design furniture, but to oversee the entire manufacturing process, from selecting certified solid wood to achieving impeccable finishes. Thus, The Hansen Family was born, Gesa's own line of contemporary furniture.
From sofas, coffee tables, benches, and stools to chandeliers and dressers, each creation boasts a simple and efficient aesthetic that reflects her Scandinavian heritage, with wood playing a prominent role. Everything is beautiful, functional, and ingenious, crafted in the family factory in Germany. This is what we admire at Linnea Lund!
What else do we love about Gesa? Her adventurous spirit, which led her to leave Paris for a house in the countryside where time seems to stand still. Where everything feels softer, quieter. Where space isn't a luxury but a constant reminder of how having one's own space is an invaluable asset for better communal living. Where tables easily accommodate more than a dozen guests, all happily (and fortunately) enjoying Charles's cooking, Gesa's partner, an inspired restaurateur and owner of several establishments in Paris, including their latest venture in the 2nd arrondissement, entirely designed by Gesa. It's no surprise that the "V.I.R. (very important room) is the kitchen, where everything happens and is prepared, where everyone talks and confides.
And it's between Montorgueil and Sentier, at Café Compagnon, her partner's bistro address, that Gesa Hansen welcomes us, dressed in our Angela Pearl-Grey, to talk about her craft, her love for natural materials and neutral tones, and the Linnea Lund pieces she adores.
Q&A with Gesa Hansen
How would you define your style?
What is your favorite piece from your Linnea Lund wardrobe?
How do you wear Linnea Lund cashmere?
What objects represent Sweden for you?
To follow Gesa Hansen and discover her creations, visit The Hansen Family website and follow her adventures on social media.