She translated this concept in her shoe collection called ‘Woodhide Geometries’. She combines striking geometrical shapes with wood as a warm organic material. “I was interested in integrating wood veneer in the upper leather,” she says. “I had never seen that before. Wood provides a tough look, but by cutting it with a laser cutter and attaching a fine Plexiglas heel you can give it elegance and stylishness.” The collection comprises four designs — three low shoes and a boot for women — each of which demonstrates how versatile and surprising wood can be. Tineke also sees bamboo veneer as extremely suitable. “It is a hip, contemporary and ecologically sound product,” she explains. “Increasing environmental awareness means that bamboo is increasingly embraced in the world of designers. It gives modern designs a luxurious and natural appearance. Wood is not only an available product with protective characteristics, but it is also very trendy.”

Tineke Gysel