ted. Amsterdam: More than a Furniture Store

Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam is where you’ll find ted. It’s more than just a furniture store – it's an adventure in design and creativity. As you wander through its inviting space, you'll quickly realize that ted. is one of those delightful places where art and whimsy meets function. Its colorful backdrops provide the perfect scenery for a shoot, or as an event location...or simply as inspiration for your ‘home decor’ saved folder. We were lucky enough to catch up with its co-founder, Daphne Weersink, to talk about the space, the future and what she would do to a Cowboy e-bike if given the chance to paint one.

A Treasure Trove of Unique Finds

At ted., every piece tells a story, thanks to the store's vibrant and eclectic collection. But where do all these eye-catching pieces come from? Weersink, along with her partner and ted. co-founder Remco van Dijk, have a knack for discovering gems in unexpected places. "We connect with designers directly through Instagram, buying unique items that can't be found anywhere else," she explains. Additionally, they have a keen eye for second-hand treasures, scouring platforms like Marktplaats and Catawiki. "We offer second-hand designs that bring a blend of nostalgia and contemporary style to our store," she adds.

The Philosophy Behind the Pieces

But what specifically do they look out for? It's all about elements that make each piece stand out. "I look for pieces that captivate with their color and form," says Weersink. To her, great design isn't just about aesthetics; it's about evoking emotion. "Great design is something that truly resonates and has a unique presence. It should make a statement and add character to any space," she elaborates.

Showcase Favorites

Choosing favorites isn't easy with so many stunning pieces around, but there are a few that simply can't be ignored. The Modulation lamp by Axel Chay is "definitely a standout favorite," according to Weersink. Another beloved series is the Pepino by OWL, celebrated for its playful yet elegant aesthetic. "It's always hard to choose, but those are simply fantastic," she shares with a smile.

Expanding Horizons

ted. is not one to rest on its laurels. Coming up at the end of October, they're launching a pop-up event in New York City, where they'll bring their unique blend of art and furniture to a whole new market. "We're excited to be organizing the event in New York. It's a thrilling opportunity for us and we're looking forward to sharing our designs with a new audience," she reveals.

A Bright New Chapter in Halkade

Last year, ted., opened its second location, a warehouse 25 minutes from Amsterdam's centre in the northern quarter of Halkade. This open-plan room is a perfect canvas for displaying large, bold pieces. "The space is wonderful – it's large, bright, and has high walls. There's so much potential for creativity and expansion," Weersink expresses, reflecting on their choice.

Creating the Right Atmosphere

A visit to ted. isn't just about the visual feast; it's also about the ambiance. The soothing tunes of Ziggy Alberts and Erlend Øye fill the space, enhancing the vibe that ted. is known for. "The music creates a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere that complements our space perfectly," she notes.

If ted. Had a Cowboy

If ted. were given a Cowboy e-bike to paint, Weersink would go for hues of "Pistachio or Butter Yellow," she decides after a short pause. "Both hues are fresh and vibrant, and they would add a cheerful touch to any Cowboy model," she adds. While there are currently no official plans for a collab, that's certainly given us food for thought.

And just like that, it was time to go our separate ways. We hope you enjoyed this little insight into the brilliant minds behind ted. Whether you're a design aficionado or just looking for something a little different in Amsterdam, it truly offers a refreshing take on what a furniture store can be. It's a place where creativity reigns and every item invites you to take a closer look. If you're cycling past, it's well worth stopping and saying hi. Just be warned: you might leave with a brightly coloured coffee table strapped to your bike.