Meet Hanne, the graphic designer who left the city to live by the beach
Here at Nordfolks, we’re always curious to learn more about people’s design choices. That is why we have decided to interview various people and hear their thoughts on design. This time we had a chat with Hanne Aarsnes. She is a graphic designer who left the city to live by the beach.
Hi Hanne! We would love to get to know you a little better. Who are you?
In short, I’m a happy, easy-going person who has a huge heart for animals. I have two dogs together with my boyfriend, which we adopted in Portugal. They make every day so much fun and we love to explore and go on adventures together. Hopefully, we will end up with five or more dogs at some point in our lives, he-he.
Why did you decide to move to Ålesund and the little island of Alnes?
I guess it all started when we decided to move into a 6 square feet van. We quit our jobs in Oslo and started working remotely from the road through Europe. Every evening we ended up parked by a beach somewhere looking for surf. Nature became a part of my everyday life. After getting back to Norway I talked with a local surfer at Alnes who mentioned there were plots for sale right next to the beach and that was it.
How would you describe a perfect day?
A perfect day is a barefoot day. Starting my day with a yoga session followed by breakfast and surfing in glassy conditions with my longboard under my feet. After a good lunch, I would spend the afternoon on the beach with family, friends, and my dogs running around. Followed by a sunset surf and an open fire bbq in the garden.
Have you always been passionate about design?
I have always been a visual person. My love for design started to grow during my second year at high school when I switched to the art education program. In my first round of college, I studied fashion for one year, but I didn’t enjoy the fashion industry and what it represented at the time. Things are getting better now - luckily. When I studied fashion I had a course in computer design and that turned out to be the turning point in my life and how I found graphic design.
Where do you find inspiration?
Most of my inspiration comes from getting to know my clients and learning about what they do. I like to challenge them with new ideas and ways of thinking. When the computer screen becomes too absorbent I find my inspiration outside. In the city and in nature. Nature is always changing lights, scenery, and colors. I love taking photos and capturing a glimpse of light.
How would you describe your style?
As mentioned I’m very much a visual person. If I see something I like, It’s not because it’s a certain brand or it’s a trend. It’s all about how it makes me feel. Which applies to both fashion and interior. Growing up in Norway my style is definitely Scandinavian - minimalistic and classic. To mix Scandinavian with something different and unique is always a yes for me. I like quality and hand craftsmanship with attention to detail and structure.
What are you most excited about right now?
My future home at Alnes, surfing, yoga and traveling - when we can speak of covid in past sentences. At work, I am excited to create good designs for clients and help them to communicate their passion to others.