What Makes an Object Special?

For me, a truly special object is not defined by the name of its designer or its rarity. It begins with the feeling it evokes.

As a photographer, I have spent many years training my eye to see composition, light, form, and balance. Today, I use that same perspective when selecting vintage design. I look for objects that naturally draw attention without demanding it—pieces that bring character to a space and continue to reveal new details the longer you look at them.

A remarkable object tells a story. Not only about the designer who created it, but also about the time in which it was made. The greatest designs reflect the optimism, innovation, and cultural spirit of their era. That is why they continue to feel relevant, even decades later.

Originality is equally important. I am drawn to designers who challenged convention and introduced new ways of thinking. The most iconic pieces didn't follow trends—they created them.

Authenticity also plays a vital role. Gentle signs of age, a subtle patina, or an original manufacturer's label all add depth and character. These details remind us that an object has lived a life, making it unique rather than imperfect.

But ultimately, every piece I consider comes down to one simple question:

Would I want to live with this object myself?

If the answer is an immediate yes, then I know it belongs in the Baan Collection.

I believe the finest objects are more than functional pieces of furniture. They inspire, provoke emotion, and continue to surprise over time. They transcend trends, outlive generations, and remind us that truly great design is timeless.

That, to me, is what makes an object truly special.