Kuperus & Gardenier | Pigeon Service by Christien Meindertsma

About Kuperus & Gardenier

Kuperus & Gardenier is originally a carpentry and woodworking company founded by Jan Kuperus and Rienk Gardenier. From their workshop in Lelystad, they undertake various projects, ranging from historical restoration to modern design. They are known for combining traditional and artisanal techniques with modern woodworking. For example, they were involved in the construction of the historic VOC ship the Batavia and in restoration work for the Nieuwe Kerk Groningen.

Collaboration with Thomas Eyck

Additionally, they also produce various interior products and decorative accessories for designers, with their craftsmanship at the forefront. This also led to a long-standing collaboration with Thomas Eyck for his label t.e., featuring exclusive contemporary design products. They often produced designs by Christien Meindertsma. After the tragic passing of Thomas Eyck, Jan Kuperus and Rienk Gardenier decided to establish their own label and incorporate some of these designs into their KG collection, so that they would not be lost. Thus, they now produce the Pigeon Service, the fabric Pigeon made from leftover materials from furniture manufacturer de Gelderlander, and the Flax Project. In addition, Christien Meindertsma also designed the fabric Sparrow Bird t.e. as a tribute to Thomas Eyck.

About Christien Meindertsma

Christien Meindertsma studied at the Design Academy Eindhoven from 1998 to 2003, where she was taught by, among others, Hella Jongerius. In her work, she investigates the lifespan and use of products and raw materials. Careful research and documentation, themes such as local production and untapped raw materials characterize her work. She also tries to make the origin of everyday products, which people are often no longer aware of due to globalization and industrial production processes, insightful again. Sometimes the research itself is the end result. In other cases, her research leads to commercial products.
Meindertsma's work is included in the collections of MoMA, the Victoria & Albert Museum, and the Vitra Design Museum. She has won several prestigious awards, such as various Dutch Design Awards, the Index Award, and the Future Award.