PHILIPPI : Nils

Elch M

The one in the caramel-coloured winter coat

In the little NILS elk family, this is the one that has settled comfortably somewhere in the middle – and seems rather pleased about it. The PHILIPPI NILS Elk M combines natural beechwood with dense, curly faux fur in a warm natural shade, creating a Christmas figure with a surprising amount of personality. Its wooden head, antlers and little legs provide a calm, natural contrast to the fluffy body, while the friendly expression does the rest. NILS feels playful without slipping into traditional Christmas kitsch, making it particularly easy to introduce into contemporary festive decoration. Place the PHILIPPI elk on a dining table amongst candles and fir branches, on a console or on a shelf to add warmth and texture to the setting. Its natural colour palette pairs effortlessly with wood, glass, ceramics and metal. And if that expression suggests it has already claimed the best spot in the house, that may well be intentional.

A little Christmas, no glitter required

NILS proves that festive decoration can have plenty of character without making too much noise. The combination of beechwood and soft faux fur gives the figure a warm, relaxed quality, while the natural shades make it suitable for far more than a traditional red-and-gold Christmas setting. Amongst fir greenery and candlelight it feels wonderfully wintry; paired with simple vases, bowls or contemporary candle holders, the same figure takes on a more modern character. That makes NILS M an easy addition to both pared-back arrangements and more generous festive displays throughout the winter season.

Things become particularly charming when NILS has company. The collection includes different sizes and fur colours, allowing the individual figures to be arranged as a small elk family. Size M creates a natural link between the larger and smaller versions. Mixing different heights and shades gives a sideboard, table or windowsill a relaxed sense of movement without making the arrangement look overly coordinated. After all, even an elk family should be allowed a little individuality.

Design that does not take itself too seriously

PHILIPPI is an owner-managed design company from northern Germany, creating home accessories, gifts and lifestyle objects with a recognisable design language. The brand works with materials including stainless steel, iron, ceramics, wood and leather, combining functional design with objects intended to bring enjoyment well beyond a single season. PHILIPPI has established an international presence with this approach and became particularly known for its clean forms and work with stainless steel. NILS reveals a softer, more playful side of the collection: natural beechwood meets fluffy faux fur, while considered design is accompanied by a quiet sense of humour.

It is a combination that feels very much at home at LIVOSY. We like Christmas decorations that create atmosphere without taking over the entire room for a few weeks. A character such as NILS can be styled differently each year and works just as naturally alongside familiar favourite pieces as it does with new festive finds. Material, shape and personality do most of the work here. The rest can remain pleasantly relaxed.

Three elks are not quite a herd. Almost, though.

NILS M works beautifully on its own, but pairing the different sizes brings out the playful nature of the collection. Mix the various fur colours and heights on a sideboard, place the elks between an Advent wreath and decorative trees, or let a single NILS appear as an unexpected guest at the Christmas table. Natural wood, fir branches, cream-coloured textiles and warm light complement its gentle palette, while glass and metallic surfaces provide a pleasing contrast to the curly faux fur.

NILS is also easy to combine with other pieces from the PHILIPPI world. Alongside selected Christmas decorations, our LIVOSY collection includes vases, bowls, picture frames and bar accessories from the brand, allowing this little elk to live amongst objects that remain long after the festive season is over. NILS M brings just the right amount of winter character: warm, friendly and ever so slightly unconventional.