Eleni Petaloti and Leonidas Trampoukis, Founders at Objects of Common Interest
Interviews
23.05.2023
Formed by Eleni Petaloti and Leonidas Trampoukis, Objects of Common Interest is a design studio specialising in still-life installations, experiential environments and objects. The studio’s work often centres on the balance between the long-lasting and the ephemeral, which can be seen in their recent rug collection for CC-Tapis, Moiré, which captures a moment in time using a two-century-old jacquard technique. Splitting their time between New York and Greece, Objects of Common Interest share some of their favourite culinary hotspots, what’s on their playlist and an iconic Australian building.
Founders of Objects of Common Interest Eleni Petaloti and Leonidas Trampoukis, pictured with their 'Moiré' collection for CC-Tapis. Photography: Simon171.
Eleni Petaloti and Leonidas Trampoukis, the duo behind Objects of Common Interest, split their time between New York and Greece.
Where in the world do we find you?
You will usually find us in New York, Athens or the Greek islands.
What is your favourite room at home?
The kitchen. There is something about the layout and movement–it is relaxed but active at the same time. For us, it's not just constrained to cooking but a hybrid space for use at all different times.
Any must-read books?
The Writings of Marcel Duchamp, Donald Judd: Writings and The Stranger by Albert Camus.
Where do you like to eat out?
Diner (Williamsburg), Nolan (Athens) and Ottimofiore (Milano).
What is on your playlist?
Chet Baker, Miles Davis, Nicolas Jaar and live concert footage. Listen to Objects of Common Interest’s curated playlist here.
An up-and-coming designer to watch?
Danish/Italian design company, Older Studio.
Some of the designers or movements that inspire you?
Minimalist art and Italian-born Brazilian modernist architect Lina Bo Bardi.
Your favourite building or architect?
Herzog & de Meuron’s Fondazione Feltrinelli Milano.
A piece of furniture you own and love?
Ultrafragola mirror designed by Ettore Sottsass.
An important iconic furniture piece you covet?
Pyramid chest of drawers designed by Shiro Kuramata.
The work of Italian-born Brazilian modernist architect Linda Bo Bardi provides a source of inspiration. Photography: The São Paulo Museum of Art captured by Leonardo Finotti as part of a photo series.
Objects of Common Interest's rug collection for CC-Tapis, Moiré, captures a moment in time using a two-century-old jacquard technique.
Three designers you would take with you to a deserted island?
Laila Gohar, John Pawson, Ettore Sottsass.
What first comes to mind when you think of Australia?
Jørn Utzon’s Opera House.
Can you share what you are working on at the moment?
A chair, a dining table, a restaurant, a playground, a building…
Feltrinelli Porta Volta building in Milan, designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Photography: Filippo Romano.
Detail of Moiré, a new collection of rugs by Objects of Common Interest for CC-Tapis.
Jørn Utzon’s iconic Sydney Opera House comes to mind when Objects of Common Interest think of Australia. Photography: Hamilton Lund.