In our bright and versatile spaces, the most extraordinary ideas take shape. One of our recent projects was a stunning collaboration with Yvonne Teijgeman, a stylist specialising in food and interiors. For ESSENZA HOME’s autumn collection, she created enchanting campaign visuals in our studio. We spoke to her about her creative process, sources of inspiration, and future plans. Get to know Yvonne and her work, and be inspired by her tips on trends, creativity, and concept development.
The foundation of a creative life
This eye for detail and her willingness to experiment define her work. “I dared to mix things: serene and minimalist with bold and eclectic, old with modern. That freedom shaped me.”
After completing her studies, Yvonne specialised in creating holistic concepts, mainly for the fashion and interior retail industries. She combines concept development with hands-on styling, transforming ideas into visual narratives. Her portfolio spans photoshoots, brand books, shop displays, and training sessions in visual merchandising.
“What inspires me is constantly changing,” Yvonne says. “I follow trends in fashion, interiors, and design, visit museums and exhibitions, and love being surprised by innovations or artisanal designs. But nature is always a constant source of inspiration—whether I’m walking through a forest or exploring old kitchen gardens.”
This inspiration shines through in the FW24 campaign visuals for ESSENZA HOME. You might know the brand for its signature floral prints, inspired by nature and the Old Masters. But the Dutch brand also offers beautiful homewear and interior accessories. The campaign was shot at The Playground, and Yvonne’s creative touch is unmistakable. Using smoke machines and life-sized flowers crafted by artist Linda Nieuwstad, the visuals transport viewers into a surreal world reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.
The creative process for ESSENZA HOME
Yvonne’s work for ESSENZA HOME begins with a briefing and mood boards summarising the collection. “I always look for something fresh, a unique touch that contrasts yet complements,” she explains. For a floral collection, this might mean incorporating sleek design objects to maintain a modern edge.
The Playground played a pivotal role in the ESSENZA HOME campaign. “The studio’s versatility allowed us to create depth, atmospheres, and layered perspectives. The arch structures provided a stunning backdrop for Linda Nieuwstad’s surreal flowers, while the rest of the space offered a subdued setting.” The result? A refined balance of vibrant prints and understated hues. “The contrast between ESSENZA’s floral patterns and Linda’s surreal felt flowers made the visuals unforgettable.”
Filtering trends, maintaining personal style
Although Yvonne keeps an eye on trends, she selectively integrates those that align with her vision. “You have to stay true to your own taste,” she says. “It’s about striking a balance between what’s happening in the world and what makes your work unique.” Currently, she’s drawn to movements like Contemporary Design, natural elements, craftsmanship, and eclectic colours. She also admires designers like Iris van Herpen, whose groundbreaking work with 3D technology and upcycling pushes boundaries.
Yvonne is looking forward to new projects. “I’ve been invited to collaborate with an artistic director in France on high-end garden furniture projects. I’m also styling a showroom for a Belgian manufacturer and continuing my work with ESSENZA HOME.”
She has another goal as well: sharing her knowledge. “I want to start offering training in the retail sector to inspire the next generation. It’s so rewarding to show others how to translate creativity into practice.”
Daylight studio Atelier Oost Amsterdam as a creative playground
Finally, Yvonne highlights the importance of a great workspace. “The Playground is so versatile. The spacious area, intimate corners, and different atmospheres offer endless possibilities for styling and photography. For this project, the spaces were perfect for creating a story that was both understated and dynamic.”
With a new slate of projects on the horizon, Yvonne continues to follow her passion: creating, inspiring, and telling stories through the power of visuals.
Side note: the campaign images were shot in The Playground's old colour palette. For the current colours, check this blog.
