The Frozen Fountain
Though some might say that you can’t buy good taste, Cok de Rooy has built a career out of doing just that. He refined his design sensibilities as a buyer for big brands like Liberty of London, and in 1992, he and his business partner, Dick Dankers, opened the Frozen Fountain in Amsterdam. Today the Dutch design shop is renowned for showcasing both homegrown and international talents, hosting twice-yearly exhibitions, and rotating original art and prototypes among its curated wares for purchase.
What’s best about your job?
The most fun element for me is meeting and talking with young designers. The new generation is very optimistic—yet serious and well aware of their talents—–and always thinking about inventing new solutions for the future.
Furniture from Nani Marquina, Vitra, Piet Hein Eek, and Foscarini, are found inside the Frozen Fountain.
What makes you wish you did something else?
Nothing. In another life, I think I’d want to be an architect, playing with space, material, and balance. But now, this is exactly what I want to do.
Grandmother's Treasures Tea Set by Vika Mitrachenka for the Frozen Fountain.
How do you define “good design”?
A well-designed item communicates precisely what it was made for. Good designers and artists must be original, curious, and autonomous.
What’s your most recent purchase?
A small black-and-white photo of a bottle, teapot, and saucer. It’s marvelous: completely quiet and very tasteful.
Shippolady by Hella Jongerius for Cïbone Collection.
Is there anything you are embarrassed to love?
My girlfriend once bought a little statue of Marilyn Monroe for a dollar from a market in Italy. It was 100 percent kitsch, and I thought, My goodness. Then it broke, and I found myself spending a whole evening gluing it back together. It was so funny, back from a thousand pieces. I loved it.
Is there an object that changed how you think about design?
I’m not a designer, and I’m not an artist. When those creative types show me things, I’m always surprised. I always enjoy looking at new work. So it’s quite abstract, in a way, what has influenced me.
High Gloss Lacquered Oakwood Chair in Scrapwood by Piet Hein Eek.
What are you currently longing for?
That life stays as it is.
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