While she works with a range of materials, Tilde gravitates toward those that are natural and tactile - glass, wood, and ceramics - materials that are visually interesting in their own right, whether through texture, pattern, or the way light plays across their surfaces. When the material itself holds beauty, she prefers to keep the shape simple. For her, the true challenge lies in refining each element until they work together in perfect harmony.

Several of Tilde Nygaard’s designs for Zone Denmark have stood the test of time—remaining in high demand year after year. Their enduring appeal lies in her refined, minimalist aesthetic, which aligns closely with her perspective on sustainability for today and the future.

“I pare away, simplify, adjust and refine. It’s a long process, because simplicity of style calls for extreme attention to detail. It is the only way of achieving true coherence. But if you succeed in this, you may have created a design of enduring beauty.”

Tilde’s approach to design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a conscious mindset. She believes that timelessness is not only a design principle but also a responsibility.

“The future belongs to designers who take timelessness seriously. In their designs, in their choice of materials and in their mindset. If we can get people to buy less but better, we will have come a long way.”

In 2024, Tilde and NEU Studio were awarded the prestigious ‘Best of the Best’ at the Red Dot Design Awards for EAU, a thoughtfully designed stackable tableware collection that has garnered widespread recognition. When asked what she’s most proud of in the series, Tilde highlights its unique ability to create atmosphere. The pieces are elegant both on their own and as a cohesive set—quietly beautiful, never overpowering—while remaining practical and well-suited to casual dining and relaxed gatherings.