We are
Studio Jajacobs is a design studio in the Old-West of Amsterdam, recognised for its artistic views, material knowledge, design solutions and multidisciplinary working methods. The studio is founded in 2008 by Arja and Jan Jacobs who are both visual artists and designers and serves as a platform for experimentation and craftsmanship.
The studio runs alongside both their individual artistic practices. Their thinking and creative process is fluidly informed by art and the temper of time. “Our working methods are circular and not linear; we begin with an idea and create a plan on paper, when we are in the space the idea is then further defined and developed.” The outcome of this process means that the initial drawings maybe adjusted and / or complemented in light of these new insights. This working method values custom work on location, enabling them to come up with solutions, refine details and where necessary solve unforeseen issues. This also means that they never have to compromise on the initial design or plan after this point.
For more information please get in touch via mail@studiojajacobs.com.
We do
Exterior X Interior Building

Being a multidisciplinary studio allows them to take on any or every aspect that a functional and aesthetical building project may require. Varying from exterior to interior building, fitted and non-fitted furniture pieces and from using distinctive material and colour finishing’s to the design of connective components. Be it a new-build project, refurbishment or renovation, Studio JaJacobs arranges the on- and off-site project management. The studio is known for its keen technical insights whilst never compromising on quality and outstanding details.
Learn more about our projects here
Custom Paint & Wood Treatments

The studio gives colour advice and makes special treatments that are inspired by the natural wear and tear of metals and wood. Examples of this are iron rust and the black and green touch which appears on silver and copper, this is called a ‘patina’. Arja and Jan purposefully use this phenomena in their work to give materials a certain aesthetic, making them friction resistant and insensitive to temperature differences. They also specialise in wood treatments and colour recipes that are free of chemicals, only using natural paint, oils and wax recipes that do not contain micro plastics or preservatives. Please feel free to contact the studio for more information.
Installations

The studio creates objects that are not bound to one medium. These multifunctional pieces are used in theatre performances, installation works and films. Arja and Jan are always interested in collaborating, please drop them a mail or give them a call.
Curated & Collected
coming soon
We create
Lamps

Arja began making her ‘colourful family’ of woven lamps in 2008 when Studio JaJacobs chose to move from the rolling hills of South Limburg to the city of Amsterdam. During the process of building their studio she came across a number of frames and decided to restore and repair these lost but not forgotten objects. Using a technique of hand weaving and crochet (100% Wool, origin: Faroe Islands Extra fine blend or blends of Bio Cotton & Linen). She creates lamps that are truly one of a kind. The original ‘family’ began with primarily neutral colours that had colourful accents. The newer series from 2018 uses coloured blocks and lines to emphasize the geometrical forms of the lamp. Whether by day or night the materials of natural thread disperse the light in a warm colourful tone that has the ability to atmospherically shift any space. Arja carefully constructs the identity of each new lamp, with colour combinations and material choices creating a poetically weightless story. The lamps are labeled with a combination of colour names and come in different shapes and sizes. They can also be custom made.
Silver Beakers

All of Jan’s silver beakers are made from one piece of silver and are formed by a technique of hand hammering called ‘plannishing’, which give the beakers a finely ‘dappled’ finish. In 2018 Jan began to research and question the re-appearing image of the enamel beaker in documentaries of third world countries. It’s inherent connection to daily life makes the beaker a tool of necessity, giving it a value which western society can hardly relate to. By handcrafting a representation of the enamel beakers in silver, it challenges us to reconsider our own connection to these objects and emphasises the beauty of the everyday utensil. The silver beakers range in size and form and can be purchased individually or as part of a set.
Jewellery

Arja’s jewellery (rings, hangers, bracelets and earrings) is distinguished by its designs, the original use of materials (such as gemstones, leather and rope) in combination with high quality gold and silver. Each piece is handmade in the studio in Amsterdam, using traditional tools and techniques. Arja describes herself as an intuitive maker who’s style is characterised by unconventional stone settings and a non-gender specific aesthetic. She enjoys the process of a collaborative creation, in which she translates your specific wishes and personality into a piece of jewellery. On request she can also make a timeframe of photographs to give you a deeper insight into the making process.