Introducing DBO Home Handmade Ceramics

When curating the DIANI stores, my goal is to create a space filled with everyday luxury items of the highest quality, that I love and make me feel good. So when I'm looking for new designers, my eye is always on what I would wear or want in my own home. When I first discovered DBO Home, naturally I fell in love with their handmade ceramics (think serveware, vases and kitchen vessels), but I also felt a strong connection to their story and process as well. This week I'm introducing you to DBO Home, the husband-and-wife duo behind this beautiful handmade homeware collection.

Dana Brandwein and Daniel Oates traded their fast-paced New York City life for slow living and creating handmade artisanal pieces. They converted a cowshed in Litchfield County, Connecticut into a working ceramic and woodworking studio where they design and make a full line of homewares, including dinnerware, serveware, accents, lighting and custom furniture.

After two decades in the music business working with artists like AC/DC, Metallica, and Björk, Dana made the switch to pursue her passion for design. She creates freeform ceramics from start to finish using three different techniques – slip casting, hand building and wheel throwing. All pieces are sanded to ensure the perfect touch, then bisque-fired, glazed and fired again.

Daniel is an acclaimed sculptor whose work is in the permanent collection at the Whitney Museum. He left the New York City art scene and representation at 303 Gallery to become a master craftsman creating one-of-a-kind heirloom quality furniture. He primarily uses locally-sourced American hardwoods, showing off the natural beauty of the wood.

Together they became the creative partners of DBO Home, which celebrates the tactile and aesthetic pleasures that come from filling your home with things that cultivate a sense of wellbeing. They're committed to craftsmanship and high quality natural materials and everything is made by hand, embracing the perfectly imperfect variations that make each piece truly one-of-a-kind.

I discovered DBO Home when I was showing our DIANI Living cushions at Field + Supply in Upstate New York a few years ago. We kept in touch and the timing was right to bring their beautiful ceramics into the store and I'm so excited to be sharing them with you.

The Kashmir collection is lightweight with a variety of perfectly imperfect shapes - from noodle bowls to platters and cheeseboards. The glaze is made in house in small batches and the elegant floral pattern is a unique design. These pieces are made to last, for use every day or for special occasions and sit well with other collections. 

The Pinch Collection features a unique pinch texture created by Dana, with bronze glaze drips over the edges. I love how she took a basic white bowl, mug or vase and made it unique in its shape, texture and color. The Pinch Bud Vases are cast from the original sculpted forms, but the glaze drips make each vase unique. Various size bowls, a tray and mugs are also part of this collection.

Two words to describe the Bare collection is perfectly, imperfect. These beautiful handmade ceramic pieces are elegant yet luxurious, with an organic design. The Pedestal Vase makes a statement, especially with a bunch of fresh greenery or florals inside. I can't wait to see how many ways I can use the Bare Utility Vessel. From flowers and cutlery, to wooden spoons, spatulas and paint brushes – the options are endless.

As a candle lover, I'm beyond excited to be carrying these Stake Bronze Candlesticks. Daniel sculpted the candlesticks, then he built his own furnace to melt down the bronze. He casts them in small batches, finishing each piece by hand. Available in three sizes (see here, here and here), they're modern yet rustic and will add chic luxury to any table setting.

I have been collecting unique homewares and ceramics for years, so bringing DBO Home into the mix is exciting for the store (and my home!). They pride themselves in adhering to the standard of beauty, comfort and quality in every piece, and they don't fall short of doing just that. Enjoy exploring the entire DBO collection below.

Sending love,

Photos courtesy of Dane Tashima, William and Susan Brinson, Jane Bieles and Bob Coscarelli