A conversation with Dechen Yeshi
The first time I came across Norlha, about 10 years ago now, I was immediately struck by its understated yet sublimely elegant energy. This was well before the banal ‘quiet luxury’ trend became a thing; before The Row and its constructed aesthetic became an obsession. Rather, Norlha expressed a presence that only genuine, lived experiences can impart — a singular quality that is ethereal and inimitable. It struck me profoundly, for I had never seen anything like it before and have only discovered a handful like it since.
Norlha AW25. Image by Ana Larruy.
Set on the rooftop of the world in the Tibetan Plateau, Norlha is an atelier that weaves fine pieces of clothing and home accessories from yak khullu — the wispy, soft under down that the yak grows in the fall and sheds in late spring. It is incredibly warm, as it is designed to protect from the harsh winters of the region, and naturally ethical, for it gradually falls off the yak as the season warms.
Like the best of things, Norlha has roots in an extraordinary personal story. Originally founded in 2007, it is the brainchild of mother-daughter duo, Kim and Dechen Yeshi. The atelier braids the preservation of nomadic traditions with the empowerment of local communities, all while revealing to us the versatility of this prized wool that has been made relevant beyond the confines of the nomad’s yurt.
Dechen and Kim Yeshi. Image by Kin Coedel.
Norlha homewares. Image by Ana Roque.
Norlha is the expression of resilience, impeccable taste, humility, and simplicity. Above all, it shows us how our ingenuity and creativity can be used intelligently to bridge opposing cultures together, ensuring each is respected while celebrating their commonalities. It is done gently, softly — and powerfully.
Ahead of the global release of our piece on Norlha in Issue 40 of Design Anthology, I cannot help but feel joy as I preview here an unedited Q+A with Dechen that I gathered as part of my research for the article. May it inspire you to see the strength in subtlety.
When you conceive, design, and create a Norlha piece, what emotions do you seek to evoke in the person who connects with and/or buys each piece?
When we conceive, design, and create a Norlha piece, our goal is to evoke a sense of warmth, familiarity, and connection in the person who wears or owns it. Each piece is crafted to embody a combination of elegance and comfort, inspiring a feeling of being at home within oneself. We want our customers to experience the artistry and care woven into every fibre, sparking a sense of appreciation and joy. Ultimately, a Norlha piece is designed to bring out the best in its wearer, offering both physical comfort and emotional resonance—a blend of sophistication and the reassurance of something timeless and personal.
Images by Ana Larruy.
To you, is home a place or a feeling?
To me, home is both a place and a feeling, inseparably intertwined. It is a physical space that evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and belonging, where familiar sights, sounds, and scents awaken parts of myself I may have forgotten. Home is where memories are built and challenges faced, making it more than just a location—it is the emotions and connections tied to those spaces.
Growing up in the Himalayas, the rivers, valleys, and the earthy scent of monsoon will always encapsulate the feeling of home for me. Similarly, my years on the Tibetan Plateau will bring vivid memories from the grunt of yaks, the smoky aroma of a stove, the rhythmic swishing of looms, and the soft hum of prayers. These physical elements evoke feelings of comfort, emotion, and identity, making home both a tangible place and a deeply personal sensation.
Image by Victor Bensusi.
For someone who is discovering Norlha for the first time, which piece from your latest homewares collection would you recommend and why?
Each piece resonates differently with people depending on their personality and preferences. Some are drawn to rich textures, others to soft, comforting designs. Some prefer bold, vibrant accents, while others seek calm and understated elegance. I believe our home range has a little of something for everyone.
My personal favourites have evolved over the years, but right now, the Overfelt Stone Throw stands out to me. It’s bold in a quiet way, combining hand weaving and hand felting in a way that showcases artistry.